Explore every episode of the podcast Family Travel Unpacked: Make the Most of Travel With Kids
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii with Kids: Five Questions People Ask Me All The Time | 19 Dec 2025 | 00:32:32 | |
Planning a family trip to Hawaii with kids? Melissa shares 20+ years of Hawaii experience, answering the top 5 questions about which island to choose, how to make Hawaii affordable with points & miles, hotel vs condo decisions, trip length, and handling jet lag. Episode Highlights:
Melissa has visited every Hawaiian island with her kids, including a 5-week Oahu stay and two Maui trips in 2024 alone. Get her honest, tested advice on planning an unforgettable Hawaii vacation without breaking the bank. 00:00 Welcome to Family Travel Unpacked 00:17 Why Hawaii? 01:12 Choosing the Right Island 06:12 Making Hawaii Affordable 17:16 Hotel vs. Condo: Which is Best? 21:31 Trip Length and Island Hopping 27:07 Handling Jet Lag with Kids 31:59 Conclusion and Resources Articles Mentioned/Related:
Affiliate Links & Resources: Credit Cards for Earning Points:
Discount Cards:
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| The Packing Hack To Level Up Your Winter Travel With Kids | 16 Dec 2025 | 00:04:36 | |
Travel packing hack alert! Vacuum storage bags can save massive space when packing winter gear for ski trips and cold destinations like Iceland. Host Melissa shares how her family packed carry-on only for Iceland in July using vacuum compression bags for puffy jackets, rain gear, and cold weather essentials. Learn the difference between roll-up bags and electric pump versions, plus a genius bonus tip for using them as laundry bags on any trip to make room for souvenirs. Episode Highlights:
Perfect companion to our family ski trip planning episode. Pick up your vacuum bags and digital scale to get started! 00:00 Welcome to Family Travel Unpacked Best Family Ski Resorts in Colorado Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| How to Choose Your Next Family Travel Destination | 14 Nov 2025 | 00:14:54 | |
Get family travel planning tips from a mom who books 10-12 months ahead! Learn how to choose destinations based on your family's schedule, using points & miles, weather, flight routes and more. Family Travel Unpacked host Melissa shares her "Where to Go When" spreadsheet system, real examples from Costa Rica and Italy, and how to balance everyone's needs with you travel with kids - from outdoor adventure to resort pools. Perfect for families juggling school schedules, dietary restrictions, and multi-generational travel. 00:00 Welcome to Family Travel Unpacked 01:11 Understanding Travel Constraints 03:23 Flight Logistics and Planning 04:39 Balancing Family Needs and Preferences 05:26 Maximizing Points and Miles 06:34 Organizing Your Travel Plans 08:46 Weather Considerations 12:24 Making the Final Decision 14:44 Recap and Next Episode Preview Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| The Secret Weapon Hiding on Your School's Website | 11 Nov 2025 | 00:04:45 | |
Discover how to book award travel with kids by checking next year's school calendar NOW. Learn why planning 10-12 months ahead unlocks the best points and miles redemptions for family trips. Host Melissa shares the one strategy that changed her family travel game: using next year's school district calendar to book award flights and hotels before availability disappears. Perfect for families wanting to travel on points without breaking the bank. In this episode:
00:00 Introduction to Quick Tip Tuesday 00:15 The Hidden Gem on Your School's Website 00:58 Why Early Planning is Crucial 02:01 Real-Life Example: Costa Rica Spring Break 03:16 Flexibility and Contingency Planning 04:04 Challenge and Action Steps 04:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Welcome to Family Travel Unpacked | 07 Nov 2025 | 00:12:02 | |
Travel with kids doesn't have to wait. Join host Melissa as she shares how her family travels MORE now than before having children—from Hawaii at 3 months old to a 2-year family gap year backpacking the world. In this debut episode of Family Travel Unpacked, Melissa introduces her 8-year journey running The Family Voyage and reveals the surprising truth: family travel became intentional, frequent, and affordable after kids arrived. Learn how maternity leave trips evolved into full-time travel, why kids make you better travelers, and how strategic use of points and miles makes it all possible. In this episode:
00:00 Welcome to Family Travel Unpacked 01:17 Our Early Travel Experiences 02:23 Traveling with a Newborn 03:46 Expanding Our Horizons 05:03 The Big Leap: Full-Time Travel 08:26 Core Principles of Family Travel 11:09 What to Expect from This Podcast 12:15 Conclusion and Next Steps Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Crushing Your Family Ski Trip With Jessica Averett of Skiing Kids | 12 Dec 2025 | 00:43:42 | |
Skiing with kids doesn't have to be stressful! Learn how to plan the perfect family ski trip with expert Jessica Averett of SkiingKids.com. From choosing the right resort to handling different ability levels, ski school decisions, and packing essentials—get all the tips you need for an amazing winter vacation. In this episode:
Whether you're planning your first family ski vacation or looking to improve your next trip, this conversation with Jessica (mom of 5 young skiers in Utah) will help you create unforgettable mountain memories without the meltdowns. 00:00 Welcome to Family Travel Unpacked Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Your Multi-Gen Family Travel Planning Timeline | 09 Dec 2025 | 00:05:47 | |
Planning multi-generational travel? Learn why booking 10-12 months ahead makes family reunion travel easier and more affordable. Melissa shares real examples from traveling with grandparents including Mexico resorts, cruises, and Hawaii trips. Discover the ideal timeline for coordinating flights, hotels, and activities when multiple families travel together. What You'll Learn:
00:00 Welcome to Quick Tip Tuesday 00:25 Listener Question: When to Start Planning? 00:47 Examples from Our Trips 01:43 Booking Early vs. Last Minute 03:10 Detailed Timeline Recommendations 05:00 Final Tips and Conclusion Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Making Multi-Generational Travel Work for Everyone | 05 Dec 2025 | 00:31:00 | |
Multi-generational travel tips for planning successful family reunion vacations with grandparents, grandchildren, and everyone in between. Learn destination selection strategies, hotel vs. vacation rental pros/cons, activity planning for different ages and abilities, navigating money conversations, and managing group dynamics on trips spanning toddlers to seniors. Episode Highlights:
00:00 Welcome to Family Travel Unpacked 01:19 Choosing the Perfect Destination 04:54 Planning the Trip: Travel Agents vs. DIY 08:03 Booking Early and Getting Commitments 10:50 Hotel vs. Vacation Rental: Making the Right Choice 15:19 Flexibility in Activities and Logistics 19:31 Navigating the Money Conversations 23:30 Managing Interpersonal Dynamics 28:01 Final Tips for Multi-Generational Travel Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Credit card treasure hunting | 02 Dec 2025 | 00:06:29 | |
Maximize credit card travel benefits and perks with this quick guide to rental car status, Global Entry credits, and hidden airline benefits. Learn how to audit your credit cards to uncover hundreds in travel savings before your next family vacation. In this Quick Tip Tuesday episode, Melissa shares how to maximize credit card travel benefits most families overlook. Discover how to unlock rental car status upgrades, activate TSA PreCheck and Global Entry credits, stack rideshare benefits, and create a simple system to track all your perks. Episode highlights:
00:00 Introduction and Quick Tip Overview 00:16 Unlocking Hidden Benefits of Travel Credit Cards 00:44 Real-Life Examples of Credit Card Benefits 01:57 Maximizing Value from Credit Card Benefits 03:50 Creating a Credit Card Benefits Tracker 04:39 Automating and Tracking Your Benefits 05:24 Final Tips and Conclusion Resources: Chase Sapphire credit cards Best Travel Credit Cards for Families Four Reasons I LOVE Award Travel How to get discounted rental cars Chase Ink Business credit cards Capital One Venture X credit card Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Travel with kids for FREE? Yes please! | 28 Nov 2025 | 00:20:28 | |
Learn how to travel for free with your family using points and miles! Get the details on travel hacking for beginners from busy mom Melissa, who's addicted to family travel on points. Dreaming of taking your family to Hawaii, Europe, or Costa Rica without breaking the bank? In this episode of Family Travel Unpacked, host Melissa breaks down exactly how to use credit card points and miles to cover flights and hotels for your entire family. In this episode:
Whether you're brand new to points and miles or ready to level up your strategy, this episode gives you actionable steps to start traveling more while spending less. Download your free ebook to jumpstart your journey today! 00:00 Introduction to Family Travel Unpacked 00:59 Challenges of Traveling with Family 01:55 Earning Points: The Basics 03:17 Maximizing Credit Card Benefits 07:10 Booking Flights with Points 14:40 Hotel Strategies for Families 17:50 Practical Tips for Traveling with Kids 19:20 Conclusion and Resources Resources: Best Travel Credit Cards for Families Four Reasons I LOVE Award Travel How to get discounted rental cars Chase Ink Business credit cards Capital One Venture X credit card Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Teen Travel Gift Guide (What They Really Want) | 25 Nov 2025 | 00:06:20 | |
Best travel gifts for teens: our teen gift guide with ideas they'll actually use! From experience gifts to luggage and tech essentials. Struggling with holiday shopping for your teen traveler? In this quick episode, I share my teen gift guide featuring the best travel gifts for teens and tweens – vetted by my own 14 and 11-year-old! From experience-based gifts that create lasting memories to practical gear they'll use on every trip, these are the gifts traveling teens actually want. In This Episode:
Whether you're shopping for birthdays or the holidays, these travel gift ideas will delight the teen or tween traveler in your life! Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Travel With Kids: Costa Rica Edition | 21 Nov 2025 | 00:24:03 | |
Planning your perfect Costa Rica family vacation? Learn essential tips, itinerary ideas & how to pivot when travel goes wrong! Join Melissa from Family Travel Unpacked for a complete guide to Costa Rica with kids—from cloud forests and coffee farms to zip-lining adventures and beach resorts. After an unexpected flight diversion forced a complete itinerary change, this family of four discovered amazing destinations most visitors skip entirely. In this episode:
Perfect for families planning their first Costa Rica family trip or looking for adventure-plus-relaxation itinerary ideas. Includes specific recommendations for wildlife spotting with kids, maximizing points and miles and more. Resources: Perfect 7 Day Costa Rica Itinerary for Families Costa Rica Central Valley Day Trip The Wildest Flight Diversion Story Travel Insurance Comparison Tool Best Travel Credit Cards for Families Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Mastering Microvacations (aka How Travel With Kids Doesn't Have to be a Full-Time Job) | 18 Nov 2025 | 00:04:09 | |
Microvacations and weekend getaways don't have to be complicated! Learn how to plan the perfect 2-3 day family trip that actually refreshes you. Melissa shares her proven formula for stress-free microvacations: finding affordable non-stop flights, choosing hotels with breakfast included, and picking compact destinations where you can maximize fun without the exhaustion of over-planning. Episode highlights:
Perfect for busy families juggling sports schedules, school commitments, and limited vacation days. Discover how to squeeze more travel into your year without breaking the bank or burning out. 00:00 Introduction to Micro Vacations 00:19 What is a Micro Vacation? 00:38 Keys to a Successful Micro Vacation 01:01 Affordable Flights 01:27 Choosing the Right Hotels 01:56 Ideal Destinations for Micro Vacations 02:40 The Benefits of Micro Vacations 03:15 Recap and Final Tips 03:53 Conclusion and Additional Resources Resources: All about the Southwest Companion Pass Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Banff with Kids with Celine Brewer of Travel Banff Canada | 08 Feb 2026 | 00:42:26 | |
Planning a family trip to Banff? Join Melissa as she talks with Celine of Travel Banff Canada about visiting Banff with kids - from best times to visit and where to stay to budgeting tips and must-do activities. Celine, a mom of two living in Canmore, shares insider advice on making the most of your Canadian Rockies family vacation. Episode highlights:
Whether you're planning spring break in the Rockies or a summer mountain adventure, this episode covers everything you need to know for an amazing Banff family vacation. Where to stay in Banff with kids
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Dolomites with Kids: What Families Need to Know | 03 Feb 2026 | 00:13:09 | |
Planning a family trip to the Dolomites? Learn which hiking spots work best for kids and which ones are too challenging in this practical guide. Melissa shares honest insights from her Northern Italy trip with her 11 and 14-year-old kids, comparing family-friendly experiences like Seceda and Alpe di Siusi with more challenging hikes like Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Discover where to stay in the Dolomites with kids, driving tips for mountain roads, how to handle timed entry reservations, and whether this Instagram-famous region lives up to the hype for families. Episode highlights:
Italy travel info:
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Family Travel Plans for 2026: A Sneak Peek at What’s Next | 30 Dec 2025 | 00:04:43 | |
Travel with kids in 2026: Get a sneak peek at our family travel plans! From Portugal to London, cruises to beach weekends, see how one family balances school schedules, sleepaway camps, and award travel to plan an incredible year of family travel adventures across Europe, the US, and beyond. Join Melissa from Family Travel Unpacked as she reveals her 2026 travel lineup, including:
Whether you're looking for inspiration or practical strategies for travel with kids, this quick episode shows how real families make adventure happen! Episode Highlights:
00:00 Welcome to Family Travel Unpacked 00:14 Sneak Peek at 2026 Travel Plans 00:33 January: Caribbean Cruise 00:53 February: Back to LA 01:06 March: Exploring Portugal 01:32 June: Scottsdale and London Adventures 02:48 July: Creative Summer Plans 03:15 August: Relaxing Beach Getaway 03:28 Fall: Busy Weekends and Special Plans 03:54 Conclusion: Looking Forward to 2026 Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Travel With Kids: Looking Back on Our 2025 Family Adventures | 26 Dec 2025 | 00:12:18 | |
Join us for a special 2025 year-end review including travel with kids to 10+ destinations! Family travel expert Melissa shares her year-in-review adventures including Maui family vacation tips, Italy with teenagers, Costa Rica with kids, and budget-friendly family trips using points. Discover family travel planning strategies, traveling with kids who have Celiac disease, multi-generational family vacation ideas, and underrated destinations for families. Learn how to balance adventure travel with kids and resort relaxation for the perfect family getaway! Episode Highlights:
00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:25 Reflecting on a Year of Travel 00:49 Winter in Maui 02:13 A Weekend in Miami 03:30 Spring Break in Costa Rica 04:19 Summer in Wisconsin and St. Louis 05:46 Italian Adventures 07:13 Quick Trips to Chicago and Boston 08:00 Colonial Williamsburg and Virginia 08:47 Family Time in Los Angeles 10:25 Year-End Reflections and Future Plans Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Hacking Hotels (Family Edition) | 23 Dec 2025 | 00:10:00 | |
Travel rewards and credit card points strategies to save thousands on family hotels! Learn unconventional booking hacks from a family travel expert. Maximize your credit card points and travel rewards with four game-changing hotel strategies. Melissa reveals how her family uses points transfer bonuses, hotel credits, and smart booking tactics to slash accommodation costs on trips to the Azores, Porto, and beyond. In this episode:
Perfect for families wanting to maximize travel rewards, stretch credit card points further, and unlock insider hotel booking strategies. Free travel resources for families Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Your Italy with Kids Game Plan | 31 Jan 2026 | 00:46:41 | |
Planning a family trip to Italy? Learn how to create the perfect Italy with kids itinerary from a mom who's done it three times at different ages. Discover how to choose your bases, navigate transportation (trains vs rental cars), avoid tourist crowds, and find family-friendly accommodations. Plus, essential tips for managing Celiac disease in Italy, staying safe from pickpockets, and making the most of your time with practical packing advice and money-saving strategies. Episode highlights:
Italy travel essentials:
Italy travel info:
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Celiac Travel Tips for Families | 27 Jan 2026 | 00:12:48 | |
Celiac travel tips for families: Learn how to safely travel internationally with food allergies. Melissa shares practical strategies for keeping your child safe while exploring the world - from choosing gluten-free friendly destinations like Costa Rica and Italy to using translation cards and leveraging cruise ships as a stress-free base. Discover why cruises work brilliantly for Celiac families, how to research hidden gluten in local cuisines, and which Facebook groups provide invaluable destination-specific advice. Plus, tips for navigating restaurants without dedicated gluten-free kitchens and using technology to decode ingredient labels abroad. Episode Highlights:
EqualEats Celiac Disease translation cards Helpful Facebook groups: Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Travel With Kids: Picky Eater Edition | 23 Jan 2026 | 00:11:24 | |
Family travel with kids gets easier when picky eaters become adventurous! Learn 8 strategies to help your children try new foods while traveling. Struggling with picky eaters on family trips? You're not alone. In this episode of Family Travel Unpacked, Melissa shares practical strategies for encouraging kids to try new foods while traveling - without the mealtime battles. From choosing the right timing to starting with local sweets, these proven techniques have helped countless families transform their travel dining experiences. Whether you're heading to Costa Rica, Japan, or just planning your next family vacation, these tips will help you navigate unfamiliar cuisines with confidence when you travel with kids. Episode Highlights:
Perfect for parents planning family travel with young kids, tweens, or teens. Real stories, honest advice, and actionable strategies from 13+ years of family travel experience. Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Icon of the Seas: A Kid's Take | 20 Jan 2026 | 00:12:22 | |
Icon of the Seas from a kid's perspective! 11-year-old Shoshana shares her honest review of cruising with kids, from soft serve to Celiac dining. What does an 11-year-old really think about Icon of the Seas? In this Quick Tip Tuesday episode, I interview my daughter Shoshana about her week on the world's largest cruise ship. She shares unfiltered opinions on everything from the shows and food to why she skipped kids club. Plus, her advice for other tweens considering a cruise! Episode Highlights:
Perfect for families wondering if Icon of the Seas works for tweens and kids with dietary restrictions! More tips for cruisers:
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| All About Icon of the Seas: Review, Pros, Cons and Everything In Between | 18 Jan 2026 | 00:41:41 | |
Icon of the Seas review: honest multigenerational cruise tips for 12 travelers ages 4-78. Western Caribbean ports, dining, shows & staterooms. We're just back from a week on Icon of the Seas with our crew of twelve! I'm sharing what worked (and what didn't) for our multigenerational cruise over New Years. From our perfect Deck 8 balcony setup to managing the water slide crowds, this comprehensive Icon of the Seas review covers everything families need to know. Episode Highlights:
More tips for cruisers:
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Visiting Hiroshima with Kids: An Honest Guide | 13 Jan 2026 | 00:05:09 | |
Visiting Hiroshima with kids: Should families tour the A-bomb sites? Melissa shares honest advice on navigating Japan with kids, including age-appropriate preparation strategies and what to expect at the Peace Memorial Museum. Learn which books helped her family prepare, how her 8 and 10-year-old handled the experience, and practical tips for making the right choices for your children. In this episode:
00:00 Introduction to Family Travel Unpacked 00:14 Discussing Hiroshima with Kids 00:55 Preparing for the Visit 01:24 Exploring Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park 02:08 Navigating the Peace Memorial Museum 04:01 Practical Tips and Final Thoughts 04:52 Conclusion and Additional Resources Japan travel planning resources for families
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Japan with Kids: Planning Tips & What to Expect | 09 Jan 2026 | 00:22:58 | |
Planning a family trip to Japan? In this episode, Melissa shares honest insights from her family's 10-day Japan adventure with kids ages 8 and 11. She covers what worked, what didn't, and why Japan became one of their most memorable trips despite being the hardest to plan. In this episode:
Whether you're dreaming about Japan with kids or actively planning your itinerary, this episode gives you the realistic, practical guidance you need. Timestamps: Japan planning resources:
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Southwest Companion Pass 2026: My Secret to Budget Travel with Kids | 06 Jan 2026 | 00:07:17 | |
Southwest Companion Pass 2026 lets you fly your kids for $5.60 on every flight! Learn how to earn 135,000 points fast with credit card bonuses. Melissa breaks down everything you need to know about earning the Southwest Companion Pass in 2026 - the ultimate family travel hack that lets you bring a companion on every Southwest flight for just $5.60 in taxes. Despite Southwest's recent changes, the Companion Pass remains one of the best travel rewards for families who want to travel more without breaking the budget. In this Quick Tip Tuesday episode, you'll learn exactly how to earn your Companion Pass using two Southwest credit cards, why January 2026 is the perfect time to start, and how this travel hack has enabled our family of four to take trips to Hawaii, Costa Rica, and countless weekend getaways we couldn't otherwise afford. Episode Highlights:
00:00 Welcome to Quick Tip Tuesday Compare Southwest credit cards here* *This is a referral link. When you apply for a credit card through this link, I may earn a commission or bonus at no cost to you. This helps support the free content on this site. I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe will benefit families traveling with kids. Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| 9 Common Family Travel Planning Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them) | 22 Feb 2026 | 00:20:48 | |
Avoid these 9 common family travel mistakes! From booking too late to overpacking, learn how to plan better trips with kids and save money with points & miles along the way. Planning family travel doesn't have to be overwhelming. In this episode of Family Travel Unpacked, Melissa shares the 9 biggest mistakes families make when planning trips with kids—and exactly how to avoid them. Drawing from nearly 15 years of family travel experience, including a two-year backpacking gap year with kids, Melissa covers everything from booking timelines to packing strategies to creative flight routing. Whether you're new to travel with kids or a seasoned family traveler, these practical tips will help you plan smoother, more affordable trips that everyone actually enjoys. Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Cool Summer Family Vacations: Alaska, Iceland, Michigan & Beyond | Travel With Kids | 17 Feb 2026 | 00:27:22 | |
Family summer vacations don't have to mean sweltering heat. Discover 5 cool-weather destinations perfect for travel with kids this summer. In this episode of Family Travel Unpacked, host Melissa shares real experiences from epic family road trips and international adventures where summer temps stay comfortable. From Alaska's midnight sun and bear viewing to Iceland's glaciers, plus drivable trips through Michigan's Upper Peninsula and a NY-Canada loop through Quebec City and Niagara Falls—these destinations deliver adventure without the August misery. Episode Highlights:
Plus honest budgeting tips, points & miles strategies, and age recommendations for each destination. Full itineraries and resources at thefamilyvoyage.com. 00:00 Welcome + Why Cool-Weather Summer Trips Are the Move Australia Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Five Travel Tips for Savvy Travelers in 2026 | 21 Apr 2026 | 00:23:58 | |
Airfare is up, Hyatt's award chart is changing, TSA lines are about to get longer, and your passport might expire sooner than you think. Here are five things savvy travelers are doing right now — and why each one matters for your family. These travel tips cover a mix of time-sensitive moves and things you've probably been meaning to do. Some apply to everyone; at least one is pretty niche (I'll tell you upfront if it's probably not for you). But if even two or three of these strike a chord, this episode is worth your time. In this episode:
Timestamps: Skipping security lines Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| From Tot to Teen: How Travel With Kids Changes Through the Stages | 14 Apr 2026 | 00:23:16 | |
Travel with kids changes as you go - from gear and sleep schedules to school calendars and hotel choices. Listen up to find out what 15 years has taught us. From baby's first lap infant flight to a teen texting friends from Portuguese hilltops, family travel looks completely different at every stage. Melissa gets personal in this one, sharing real stories from nearly 15 years on the road with her two kids, why she hates beach trips with babies, a two-year full-time travel adventure, the trip that turned into a COVID quarantine nightmare, and what it's actually like to travel with tweens and teens today. Whether you're just getting started with a baby or trying to hold onto the family travel years before your kid heads to high school, this episode will meet you where you are. In this episode:
Timestamps: Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Alaska With Kids - Cruise Edition (Part 2) | 07 Apr 2026 | 00:50:28 | |
Alaska cruise planning for families: what it costs, which cruise line to pick, best ports, shore excursions, and more with expert Kim Tate. Expert guest Kim Tate of Stuffed Suitcase has been on roughly 10 Alaska cruises and just published a book on the subject. She joins host Melissa Conn to break down everything families need to know about planning an Alaska cruise with kids — from choosing the right ship to managing excursion logistics to setting realistic expectations about wildlife and weather. In this episode:
Already explored Alaska by land? Melissa has too — listen to Episode 32 for the land trip breakdown, then come back to this one for the cruise deep dive.
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Surprise! When Flights Go Wrong (and How to Protect Yourself) | 27 Mar 2026 | 00:15:32 | |
Flight cancelled abroad? Here's what to do when travel disruptions hit. I'm sharing 3 mistakes I made on our Portugal spring break plus one backup flight trick every traveler needs to know. Two cancelled flights, two mechanical failures, a sprint through Dulles, and a late-night Lyft from DC to Baltimore - that's how our Portugal spring break ended. I'm sharing what went wrong, three planning mistakes I made, and one backup flight trick that saved us. 00:00 Welcome and Updates Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Alaska With Kids - Road Trip Edition (Part 1) | 20 Mar 2026 | 00:22:52 | |
Planning a road trip to Alaska with kids this summer? Don't miss this episode for the highlights (and lowlights) of visiting The Last Frontier on a family trip. Find out why Alaska is worth the effort, who it’s best for, and how to book flights using points and miles. Host Melissa outlines top regions and stops along with highlights like dog sledding, a Kenai Fjords boat tour, Lake Clark bear viewing, Byron Glacier, Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage. 00:00 Welcome and Alaska Preview 01:16 Why Alaska for Families 02:32 Booking your Alaska family trip 05:56 Road Trip Tips 08:02 Anchorage Essentials 10:09 Girdwood 12:01 Kenai Peninsula Highlights 14:30 Anchorage Day Trips 18:24 Top Experiences to Prioritize 19:54 Final Planning and Packing Tips 21:59 Wrap Up and Next Episode Links
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Hawaii vs Costa Rica: Showdown in Paradise | 13 Mar 2026 | 00:21:06 | |
Hawaii vs Costa Rica for families: a real comparison of cost, activities, logistics and accessibility — plus which one we chose for our winter break. If you've been going back and forth between Hawaii and Costa Rica for your family's next trip, this episode is for you. I've taken my family to both destinations. After an embarrassing amount of research comparing both destinations for our upcoming winter break, I'm sharing everything so you don't have to do it yourself. We cover flights and time zones, a detailed cost breakdown, activities for families, logistics and itinerary planning, the best time to visit each destination, accessibility considerations, and which destination we chose for this winter. In This Episode:
Whether you're planning for next spring break or still dreaming, this comparison will help you figure out which destination is right for your family. Find the full blog post and more planning resources at thefamilyvoyage.com.
Credit Cards Award Search Tools Articles
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Portugal on Points: A Case Study | 07 Mar 2026 | 00:18:51 | |
Award travel case study: how our family is booking Portugal flights and hotels for 4 people using points — and spending under $1,000 out of pocket. Ever wonder what it actually looks like to build a trip from scratch using points and miles? In this episode, I walk you through exactly how I planned our family's upcoming spring break trip to Portugal — flights, hotels, layovers, and all the creative problem-solving in between. This one was inspired by coffee with a local friend who had done a great job earning points but couldn't figure out how to actually use them. Sound familiar? We're covering Lisbon, Cascais, and Porto, with four nights in each of the first and last stops. I'll tell you which programs I used, how many points each piece cost, where I got creative (Southwest to DC, anyone?), and what I would do differently next time. If you've been sitting on a stash of points and wondering how to turn them into a real trip, this episode will show you how. In This Episode:
New to points and miles? Start with Episode 7 (fundamentals) and Episode 8 (credit card benefit hunting) before this one.
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| LA with Kids: A Mom's Insider Guide | 27 Feb 2026 | 00:31:13 | |
If you're planning a trip to Los Angeles with kids, this episode is your insider playbook. Melissa lived in LA for 20 years, raised her kids there, and still visits multiple times a year — including just last week, when she visited two attractions for the very first time. From navigating LAX to booking hotels on points to finding the best things to do in LA with kids across the Westside, Downtown, and beyond, this is the honest, practical guide you've been looking for. In This Episode:
Whether you're planning a standalone LA trip or combining it with Disneyland or San Diego, this episode will help you make the most of one of the world's great family destinations. Find detailed guides and hotel reviews at thefamilyvoyage.com and losangelestraveler.com.
Chase Sapphire credit cards Top resources to plan your trip to LA with kids:
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Recap & Mini Review | 16 Jun 2026 | 00:04:45 | |
Get the quick highs and lows in this Grand Hyatt Scottsdale review + recap episode, all in less time that it takes to drink your morning coffee! Find out if this could be the right resort for your trip to Scottsdale with kids - and what might be the biggest drawback for many families. Check prices at Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Amex Platinum Card for The Hotel Collection bookings: $300 statement credit, $100 property credit, breakfast for 2, guarantee 4pm late checkout, room upgrade Arizona with kids resources:
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| What's in My Carry-On? Travel Essentials for Your Next Trip | 09 Jun 2026 | 00:13:57 | |
My carry-on has evolved over years of family travel - and at this point, it's pretty dialed in. This episode breaks down exactly what's in my bag, from the backpack I choose to the credit cards I pack and why. A few of these might surprise you! In this episode:
Timestamps:
Resources: Backpacks: Tech & Power:
Camera set: Sunglasses: Earbuds: Water: Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| How We Planned London & Azores on Points | 02 Jun 2026 | 00:17:30 | |
This summer our family is heading to London and the Azores — and before we go, I'm walking you through exactly how we're paying for it with points and miles. From 32,500 AA miles per person to a $1 flight (yes, really), this episode breaks down every flight and every hotel booking and shows you what this trip would have cost in cash versus what we're actually paying out of pocket. If you've ever wondered whether the points and miles game is worth it for a family, this one's for you. IN THIS EPISODE
TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Welcome and Points Preview Credit Cards Award Search Tools More Resources
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| The Magic Combo: Southwest Companion Pass + World of Hyatt Points | 26 May 2026 | 00:34:28 | |
Southwest Companion Pass + World of Hyatt points = endless family travel possibilities. Here's how to make them work together. What happens when you combine the Southwest Companion Pass with World of Hyatt points? You get one of the most versatile family travel strategies out there — whether you're looking for an easy long weekend at a Texas resort, a ski trip in Colorado, an eco-adventure in Costa Rica, or an all-inclusive in Jamaica. In this episode I'm breaking down how these two programs work together, walking through some of my favorite properties across several trip types, and sharing honest real-world experience from stays I've actually done with my family. In this episode:
Timestamps
Southwest
Chase / Hyatt Hotel Reviews on The Family Voyage
Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Clash of the (Sort of) Ninety-Five Dollar Travel Credit Cards | 19 May 2026 | 00:25:51 | |
Chase Sapphire Preferred vs Capital One Venture X — which travel credit card is right for your family? Melissa breaks down annual fees, earning rates, transfer partners, lounge access, and real-world redemptions to help you decide. Spoiler: you'll probably want both. In this episode:
Timestamps Credit Cards Award Search Tools Articles Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Europe with Kids: A Beginners Guide | 12 May 2026 | 00:28:14 | |
Planning a family trip to Europe but not sure where to start? In this episode Melissa breaks down everything you need to know to plan your first family trip to Europe — from choosing the right destination for your family to getting around once you're there without losing your mind. With nine trips to Europe across more than a decade of family travel, Melissa has done it every way imaginable: road trips, trains, ferries, budget flights, and everything in between. She shares which countries work best for first-timers and why, what to expect logistically, and how to use points and miles to bring the cost of a family trip to Europe within reach. In this episode:
00:00 Welcome Articles Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Road Trip with Kids: How to Plan, Pack & Actually Enjoy the Drive | 05 May 2026 | 00:27:39 | |
With summer airfare through the roof, road trips are having a major moment — and honestly, they deserve it. In this episode, Melissa shares her best family road trip tips from two cross-country drives and multiple thousand-mile trips with her kids: how to plan your route, pack the car smart, keep everyone happy on long driving days, and use points, miles, and credit card perks to save big on hotels and gas. Timestamps: Gear mentioned in this episode:
Apps & tools: Road trip guides on The Family Voyage: Have a question or a topic you'd like covered? Reach out at melissa@thefamilyvoyage.com or find me on Facebook/Instagram at @thefamilyvoyage. If this episode was helpful, share it with a family who's figuring out their summer plans — and don't forget to leave a five-star review wherever you listen. It helps other families find the show! Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||
| Portugal with Kids: Itinerary, Tips and My Honest Take | 28 Apr 2026 | 00:28:01 | |
Family travel to Portugal with kids: honest recap of our spring break family trip to Portugal covering Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais and Porto. We just got back from nine nights in Portugal with our kids and this episode covers everything — what worked, what surprised us, and what you need to know before you go. We share our full itinerary across Lisbon and Porto, a night in Cascais after a Sintra day trip, our honest take on navigating Celiac disease in Portugal, why our whole family liked Porto better than Lisbon, a private Douro Valley day trip, and a few things we'd do differently. Links to all tours, hotels, and resources mentioned are below. TIMESTAMPS
Tours & Experiences Where to Stay Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone. Blog The Family Voyage Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop! | |||