In our part of the world, Earth Day usually dawns chilly and soggy. For many years, I dutifully took my kids out to the local celebration (always held outdoors, of course) so we could freeze for a few hours while batting around an oversized globe-patterned beach ball, learn about sustainable housing and bio-diesel, and eat local produce. Don't get me wrong: there's nothing wrong with any of that. … [Read more...]
Travel Pop-Ups: New books that inspire travel
April 17, 2015 By
There are plenty of guidebooks out there that help parents plan family trips. We have our favorites, including Fodor's Around series (Around London with Kids, for example) and the student guide series of Let's Go (Let's Go Western Europe is sitting right beside me). However, it's harder to get the kids inspired pre-trip. They're not as involved in the planning process, even if you … [Read more...]
Travel Gear We Use: Best diaper bag for active families
March 6, 2015 By
Today on Travel Gear We Use, we're excited to showcase the best diaper bag we've seen in a long time. The Timbuk2 Stork looks and acts like a rugged messenger bag, but has everything families with babies need while on the go. When my kids were babies, this bag was not yet available, but ironically, I used a standard Timbuk2 bag as a diaper bag, because it was tough enough for our travels and … [Read more...]
Travel gifts for kids: best hydration packs for all-season use
February 20, 2015 By
As an extension of our Travel Gear We Use series, we also feature some of our favorite travel-related gifts for kids. First up: best hydration packs for kids. I used to think that hydration packs were 'overkill' when it came to kids' outdoor gear, but I've completely changed my mind! My kids love using hydration packs during outdoor-adventure travel, and I love that they stay hydrated. Best … [Read more...]
Five reasons to book Alaska small ship cruises
February 9, 2015 By
A year ago, we wrote extensively about our small ship cruise experience with Alaskan Dream Cruises. If you liked what you read (and saw in our small ship cruise review video), now is the perfect time of year to book your summer cruise. However, I realize Alaska small ship cruises are a serious vacation investment. If hikes, kayaking, wildlife viewing and shore excurions are on your list, you'll … [Read more...]
Packing tip: How to pack only a carry on!
January 7, 2015 By
Have you lost luggage lately? Not much fun, is it? How about those baggage fees? Not a fan. But can an entire family really pack carry-on only? Yes! We've done it for years, for everything from a weekend trip to two weeks away. We're full of packing tips, including how to pack only a carry on during your next family vacation, no matter where you're headed. Read on! 1. Use the ‘roll’ method or … [Read more...]
Four pit stop-worthy children museum holiday exhibits
December 17, 2014 By
'Tis the season to travel, and while braving those interstates, you and your family will need places to stop along the way. What better opportunity to visit one of these four children museum holiday events at children's museums across the country! Each are sure to get your family in a festive mood during the holiday travel season! If traveling on I-75: Stop at the Cincinnati Museum … [Read more...]
Winter driving tips for holiday road trips
December 3, 2014 By
It can happen in an instant, and last February, it did: one moment, we were making the turn from an icy highway onto a ski resort access road, and the next, we were sliding into a snowbank, nose first. Luckily, everyone was ok, but our car suffered upon its impact with the wall of snow. After rolling into the parking lot, we spent valuable ski time accessing the damage and making sure our car … [Read more...]
Guide to Whidbey Island State Parks
November 10, 2014 By
Whidbey Island, Washington is known for its picturesque coastline and pastoral setting. It's true that Whidbey, located north of Seattle, offers abundant farm stands and a healthy agri-tourism trade, but many families --including mine!-- had no idea how many beautiful, exciting state parks fill this small island! We recommend coming to stay at least three days in order to experience most of … [Read more...]
Most haunted destinations in the US (and why kids should visit)
October 17, 2014 By
Curious about touring one of the most haunted destinations in the US? The following family travel destinations have tales to tell. Visit with ghosts in mind, or opt for a spirit-free experience with educational tours, historical sites, and kid-friendly attractions. Gettysburg, PA: It's no wonder Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is haunted, given the significance of this intense three-day Civil War … [Read more...]
