We’re lucky to have an online business (we went fully digital in 2010, long before it became a trend during COVID!) that allows us to work from anywhere. One of the main reasons we embraced full-time travel was because we knew we were in a unique position to explore the world while still working. That said, we know this isn’t the case for everyone. So, we’ve invited other full-time travel families to share how they make it work financially.
Travel fatigue is real. Full-time travel isn’t the same as vacationing—it’s just living in different places, often without the comforts and amenities you’re used to at "home," and with days packed full of activity and movement. We’ve learned to build up our tolerance and endurance for this demanding lifestyle, and honestly, we’ve become hooked! The kids took a little time to adjust to being together 24/7, but the strong bonds that have formed between siblings—and with us as parents—are absolutely priceless.
Honestly, travel days can feel like a test of endurance. They’re the hard slog before the magical memories begin. From toddler meltdowns and crying babies to canceled flights and lost reservations, they can be downright chaotic. Our advice? Prep as much as you can, expect the unexpected, and celebrate when you finally arrive! We’ve got an entire Travel Tips section full of helpful advice to make those days a little easier.
Choosing where to travel with kids is all about finding the right mix of adventure and practicality! We love picking family-friendly destinations with plenty to keep everyone engaged—whether it’s exploring nature, diving into cultural sites, or simply finding a beautiful beach to relax on. We also consider things like ease of travel, safety, and, of course, great food (because happy kids = happy parents!). Since settling in Portugal, we’ve fallen in love with the laid-back vibe here, but we’re always eager to explore new countries and try fresh experiences
Essentials include clothing suitable for the destinations climate, a versatile backpack, comfortable shoes, toiletries, travel documents, and any necessary gear or equipment.
Safety is always top of mind when traveling with my crew, especially since we’ve been on the road practically full-time since 2019! Here are a few key tips that have helped us navigate the world with five kids: