Life is a beautiful mess, and travel is no different. There was the time one of our girls got sick on a tour bus in Northern Italy. The time all three of our kids got separated from us on a cruise ship, and a kind crew member helped us reunite. The time in Versailles when my mom accidentally threw away her train ticket, so I gave her mine—only to find myself stuck behind the turnstile gates.
Travel shakes up the ordinary, teaches problem-solving, and reminds us that we learn as we go.
Right now, when we travel, we crave muse over amusement. We want a break from overstimulation that we often experience in NYC, not a new version of it. If we can get three kids through NYC subway rush hour, we can get them through Milan customs to make a waiting train to Switzerland. (You can check out some of our travel adventures here!)
In some ways, traveling with our girls feels easier than staying home.
Tidy Travel Tips
A little planning makes all the difference. Here’s how we keep things simple:
– The February Flight Spin – We set a budget and do a “spin the globe” challenge for winter break. Flights to Europe from NYC are often cheaper than Florida, and many attractions are free for kids!
– Carry-On Only – No checked bags, no overpacking. Just duffel backpacks, a travel capsule wardrobe, and laundry stops.
– The Two-Act Day – Two big activities per day, plus an “intermission” complete with open space for wandering.
– Playgrounds, Always – Our kids need to run and climb. We need to sip coffee and take it all in.
– The Treat Rule– A daily stop for something delicious makes everything better.
Packing Without the Overwhelm
Packing for everyone can feel overwhelming! It’s a ton of work, and the responsibly doesn’t have to fall on one person. Our “Kid-Friendly Travel Packing Checklist” helps shift the process from “I do” → “We do” → “You do.” Parents list the number and types of items needed, and kids take the lead in packing. It builds independence, reduces stress, and makes travel smoother.
Want to try it? Download the checklist and simplify your next trip!
You may also like:
Hi, I'm Tidy Dad!
Tyler Moore is the bestselling author of "Tidy Up Your Life" and creator of the
"Tidy Dad" Instagram, TikTok, and website. A NYC public school teacher, husband, and father of three, he’s been featured on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The Washington Post, The New York Times, HGTV, and more. Tyler lives with his wife, Emily and their daughters in Queens, NY, and spends summers at their tidy cottage in the Poconos.
February 14, 2025
Traveling with Kids: A Beautiful Mess
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Life is a beautiful mess, and travel is no different. There was the time one of our girls got sick on a tour bus in Northern Italy. The time all three of our kids got separated from us on a cruise ship, and a kind crew member helped us reunite. The time in Versailles when my mom accidentally threw away her train ticket, so I gave her mine—only to find myself stuck behind the turnstile gates.
Travel shakes up the ordinary, teaches problem-solving, and reminds us that we learn as we go.
Right now, when we travel, we crave muse over amusement. We want a break from overstimulation that we often experience in NYC, not a new version of it. If we can get three kids through NYC subway rush hour, we can get them through Milan customs to make a waiting train to Switzerland. (You can check out some of our travel adventures here!)
In some ways, traveling with our girls feels easier than staying home.
Tidy Travel Tips
A little planning makes all the difference. Here’s how we keep things simple:
– The February Flight Spin – We set a budget and do a “spin the globe” challenge for winter break. Flights to Europe from NYC are often cheaper than Florida, and many attractions are free for kids!
– Carry-On Only – No checked bags, no overpacking. Just duffel backpacks, a travel capsule wardrobe, and laundry stops.
– The Two-Act Day – Two big activities per day, plus an “intermission” complete with open space for wandering.
– Playgrounds, Always – Our kids need to run and climb. We need to sip coffee and take it all in.
– The Treat Rule– A daily stop for something delicious makes everything better.
Packing Without the Overwhelm
Packing for everyone can feel overwhelming! It’s a ton of work, and the responsibly doesn’t have to fall on one person. Our “Kid-Friendly Travel Packing Checklist” helps shift the process from “I do” → “We do” → “You do.” Parents list the number and types of items needed, and kids take the lead in packing. It builds independence, reduces stress, and makes travel smoother.
Want to try it? Download the checklist and simplify your next trip!
You may also like:
February 14, 2025
Traveling with Kids: A Beautiful Mess
Hi, I'm Tidy Dad!
Tyler Moore is the creator of the “Tidy Dad” Instagram, TikTok, and website. A public school teacher in New York City, husband, and father of three young daughters, he has been featured on Good Morning America and in The Washington Post, The New York Times, New York Post, Better Homes & Gardens Secrets of Getting Organized magazine, Apartment Therapy, and many podcasts including HGTV and Minimalist Moms. During the school year, he lives with his wife, Emily, a pediatric occupational therapist, and three daughters in Queens, New York. In the summer, they spend as much time as possible in their small but tidy cottage in the Poconos.
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