Family travel often seems glamorous in pictures—smiling faces, scenic destinations, and perfect moments. But the reality? It's far from picture-perfect. From tantrums in airports to never-ending packing lists, traveling with kids comes with its own set of challenges. In this article, we explore the 'ugly' side of family travel, showing that while the memories may be sweet in retrospect, the journey itself can be a bit less than glamorous.
Family Travel: Daddy and Aaliyah in Bocas del Toro Panama
“Travel is glamorous only in retrospect.”
Paul Theroux
Jungle river tours, crumbling ruins, fabulous beaches, mouth-watering cuisine.
Sounds so exotic, enticing, enviable. So glamorous.
It's true. It is.
But only in retrospect.
We share the enviable and exciting family travel adventures that we have, with the alluring photographs and it paints a picture of sunshine and flowers and fun all the time.
Shots to go to India
Don't get me wrong, there is plenty of that.
But there's also life. And traveling doesn't mean that life goes away with family travel.
Kids still scream when they don't get their way. They still hit their brother if he takes their toy from the carseat next to him.
There's still (endless) potty breaks with no road side facilities, and diapers to change.
And miles to drive, and countless speed bumps to cross, and winding, narrow roads.
There's sand in your shorts, and salt water up your nose.
Family travel - 6 wks to Costa Rica
There's upset tummy's, a car full of crumbs and leftovers, and broken electronics with no where to get replacements.
What's glamorous about all of that?
The glamorous part is sharing the story of the crocodile refuge that we visited, not the poopy diaper that exploded in the car afterward.
Yet both are are involved (especially) in family travel.
Both are beneficial to personal and family growth.
Having a great experience during your, and then learning to effectively handle the disappointments, frustrations and inconveniences after a 'natural high' are part and parcel of the whole family travel gig.
Traveling together, you're compelled to learn to get along, become a more patient parent and a more effective leader (of your family).
The truth is, like 'everyday' life, family travel is work. It's patience in practice.
It requires you to be 'on your game', proactively handling potential disasters before they occur, and effectively responding to 'hiccups' and catastrophes.
Family travel - Dolphins in Bocas
But it's rewards are incomparable.
The tranquility of being together, watching the sun sink into the ocean in the balmy warmth of a palm lined beach.
The thrill of being up close and personal with an enormous elephant, a colossal crocodile or an odd-looking tapir.
The pure fun of chasing dolphins, exploring ancient ruins, discovering new taste sensations or learning to climb a coconut tree.
This is the 'glamor' that makes the family travel work well worth it.
What makes family travel glamorous to you?
Check out another post on Traveling with Children
2024 UPDATE!
We’re excited to share that we’ve made a big move! We are now living in beautiful Portugal and have taken ownership of the World School Family Resort. We are now known as the Extraordinary Family Life, where we focus on coaching and mentoring moms, dads, and teens to create fulfilling, joyful, extraordinary family lives. With over 20 years of experience traveling the world with our seven children, we’re passionate about sharing the lessons we’ve learned along the way.
Check out the links below to learn more about what we do!
ABOUT GREG DENNING
Greg left home at the age of 16 and difficult circumstances forced him to find a way to find happiness and build his own happy family life.
Discovering the answers to some of life's biggest questions has continued in a lifelong pursuit of learning and personal growth.
He's married to his best friend and they have seven incredible kids. He's traveled, adventured, and taught in 49 countries on five continents.
ABOUT RACHEL DENNING
Rachel is an ambitious mother of seven children. She homeschools, manages a multiple six-figure business, and organizes trips for her family and friends.
She loves to read, learn, travel, and create resources for her children to get the 'best education possible' which often includes incredible experiences around the globe.
Rachel provides the 'logistics' behind the program -- from tracking to curriculum to trip planning.
Learn to save money on travel here!
Visit us at the Worldschool Family Beach Resort in Portugal!
Listen to our podcast.
Check out Rachel's YouTube Channel, Raising Well-Adjusted Kids.
Take Rachel's 28-Day Challenge for moms.
Join Greg's Be The Man Tribe.
Tune into Greg's Be the Man podcast.
Visit Greg's Formidable Family Men YouTube Channel.
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