Travel with Kids

In this episode I'm sharing all about our extended family trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. We spent 6 nights at the Art of Animation Resort as a family of 6, plus my parents, sisters, and their families. In total there were 17 of us on a multigenerational trip to Disney. I'm sharing how we planned the trip, how we did Disney on a budget, and how we managed to enjoy our park days with that many people! Links: Packing Reel Cars Family Suite Reel Disney Surprise Reel   Calpak Luka Duffel Clear Plastic Snack Containers Disney Amazon Favorites FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

Wisconsin Dells with Kids: Beyond the Waterparks Ready to plan a Wisconsin Dells trip that isn’t just slides and splash pads? In this episode, I’m sharing family-friendly ideas that go beyond the waterparks—think scenic hikes, slot canyons, animal encounters, historic stops, and cozy kid-approved eats.  Resources Instagram Reel (Travel Guide): https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMdseKdSFFF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Blog Post (Full Guide): https://www.emilymkrause.com/blog/wisconsin-dells-family-travel-guide-fun-things-to-do-in-the-dells-with-kids Work with me / stay connected FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT: hello@amomexplores.com  

Join us as we take you on a family adventure through some of Austria’s most enchanting experiences. In this episode, we dive into what makes a Kinderhotel in the Tyrolean Alps the ultimate stay for families, share tips for exploring the storybook town of Hallstatt with little ones, and relive magic on a “The Sound of Music” tour through Salzburg. Ideal for parents planning a stress-free family trip with rich culture, awe-inspiring scenery, and melodies that never grow old. What You'll Discover Kinderhotel in the Tyrolean Alps Learn how the perfect family hotel goes beyond just a place to stay—discover on-site kids' adventures, play areas, personal amenities, and ways to let parents relax (even just a little!). Plus, a link to a behind-the-scenes quick reel sharing highlights from the stay. Hallstatt with Kids Uncover strategies for navigating this picturesque village with children in tow—early start times, choosing roller-friendly routes, kid-friendly cafes, and hidden gems along the lakeside. Salzburg & “The Sound of Music” Tour Your ultimate guide for kids (and parents!) to enjoy the hills that are alive with sound—fun facts from the film, sing-alongs, and how to make this iconic tour a memorable adventure for all ages. Planning for the Road Ahead At the close, we walk you through crafting a multi-country itinerary to make the most of your family vacation. Check out a beautifully laid-out travel guide covering Germany and Austria with kids for inspiration. Featured Resources & Links 1. Two-Week Germany & Austria Itinerary with Kids Packed with practical advice, day-by-day schedules, and ideas perfect for families, this blog post is a fantastic resource for mapping out your own adventure: https://www.emilymkrause.com/blog/2-week-germany-and-austria-itinerary-with-kids 2. Kinderhotel Review Reel Visual peek at what life looks like when you're staying at a Kinderhotel—see kid zones, snowy alpine views, meal highlights, and more: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMvS39qgUIy/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 3. Hallstatt — Hotel Recommendation We stayed lakeside at Seehotel am Hallstattersee, a cozy haven with stunning views and family-friendly charm. Explore booking details and rates here: https://booking.tpx.lu/hAhxhADd 4. Sound of Music Tour (Salzburg) Serenade your family through movie landmarks and alpine scenery. Book your experience with ease through this tour provider: https://gyg.me/IeKGOdT4 FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

Only have one day in London with kids? In this episode of Travel with Kids, I share how our family made the most of 24 hours in the city with the London Pass. From the Tower of London and Tower Bridge to cruising the Thames on the Uber Boat, riding the London Eye, and exploring on the Big Bus Tour, I’ll walk you through a fun, family-friendly itinerary that covers London’s highlights while keeping kids entertained. I’m also sharing a listener discount! Use code TRAVELWITHKIDS for 10% off ANY Go City Pass now through the end of October. The best part? Passes are good for a full year after purchase, so you can buy now and save it for spring break or summer travel. 👉 Resources mentioned in this episode: London Pass Go City Pass 24 Hours in London with Kids Blog Post Planning a 1 Week Family Vacation in London Blog Post London with Kids: How to Plan the Best Family Vacation with Keri Baugh (Podcast Episode) DoubleTree by Hilton London Kensington Tune in for my best tips on sightseeing with kids, maximizing the Go City Pass, and making the most of a short family stay in London. FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

Planning a family trip to Germany? In this episode, I’m sharing our one-week Germany itinerary with kids—complete with budget tips, hotel recommendations, and must-see stops for families. We started with an overnight train from Brussels to Berlin, explored Berlin’s highlights, and visited important Martin Luther sites in Wittenberg, Eisleben, and Eisenach (including the Castle Church and Wartburg Castle). From there, we spent three nights on the Romantic Road with kids, stopping in Würzburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbühl, Nördlingen, and Augsburg—plus I share my favorite family-friendly hotel picks along the way. We ended our trip in Füssen to see Neuschwanstein Castle, walk a treetop trail, and take a day trip to Eibsee and the Zugspitze cable car. Whether you’re dreaming of castles, charming towns, or unique adventures like taking an overnight train, this episode is full of family travel tips, budget advice, and a kid-friendly Germany itinerary you can replicate. 🔗 Related Blog Posts: 2-Week Germany & Austria Itinerary with Kids Tips for Visiting the Romantic Road with Kids 🎥 Watch our Overnight Train Reel: Instagram Reel 🏨 Family-Friendly Hotels We Loved: Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber: Romantik Hotel Markusturm Rothenburg (one of my favorite hotels of the entire trip - they even had a room large enough for our family of 6!) Dinkelsbühl: Meiser Altstadt Hotel Dinkelsbuhl (be sure to book the breakfast here! It was divine!) Augsburg: Best Western Augusta Füssen: Hotel Schlosskrone (this hotel was in a great location, and breakfast was FREE, and it included a chocolate fountain!) FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com  

Travel with Kids Podcast: Season 4 Kickoff! Welcome back to the podcast! I missed you!  We had a summer packed full of adventure and fun, and now that school is back in session I finally have time (and a quiet enough house) to record episodes on each of our exciting destinations. You can look forward to episodes on London, Germany, Austria, Wisconsin Dells, and an extended family trip to Disney World in Orlando, Florida. I'm also talking about the sweet season of life we're in and why I think family vacations are more important than ever...even though they're gettting more expensive than ever! Enjoy this mini episode, and next week Wednesday we'll jump into our regularly scheduled programs! Oh, and P.S. Here's my Germany/Austria Itinerary: https://www.emilymkrause.com/blog/2-week-germany-and-austria-itinerary-with-kids  FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

In today's episode I'll be sharing my top 7 tips for surviving (thriving in?) the summer heat at Disney World. Central Florida can get pretty hot and humid during the summer months, but it can be such a great time for families to visit with the flexibility of summer break from school. I'm also linking my favorite Disney products to pack for a summer trip to Disney World, as well as my 2 blog posts about summer at Disney World.  Links: Favorite Disney products from Amazon How to Survive the Heat in Summer at Disney World Cool Kid Summer at Disney World - Family Programs for Summer of 2025 FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

We were hosted at Disney World last week to preview all of the fun summer activities for families at the resorts and in the parks! There has never been a better time to book a summer trip to Walt Disney World. Disney World is focused on making the summer of 2025 a magical time to visit for young families with extra perks for staying at Disney Resorts and kid-focused programming in the parks and at select resorts.  Our family was invited to preview the magic coming to Walt Disney World this summer, and I’m so excited to share all the details here!  If your family is on the fence about a summer visit to the most Magical Place on Earth, keep reading to see what will make this the best summer ever at Disney! And if you already have your trip planned between May 27 through September 1, make sure you make the most of all of the benefits you have to look forward to!  Links: Blog Post: https://www.emilymkrause.com/blog/cool-kid-summer-at-disney-world-in-2025-everything-you-need-to-know Disney Vlogs:  Instagram Post 1: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJcXY2FymGL/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Instagram Post 2: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJfPOzBB9ZB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Instagram Post 3: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJkEfBiAW5D/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

In today's episode I'm answering questions from my Instagram on the following topics: Travel destinations in the next 5 years Birthday trips Missing school for family travels Favorite travel credit cards Couples trip destination ideas Working with Tourism Boards Memorializing our travels US destinations for big families FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain and sharing how we have afforded travel over the years.  Personal finance is, well, personal! Everyone's situation is different, so I thought instead of sharing tons of tips about "how to afford to travel more," I would simply share how I do it.  In this episode we cover: How I got started as a travel writer when we had very little extra money Why I felt like a fraud as a travel writer and travel content creator Why I quit my freelance travel writing job How my blog was the key to affording more travel Why budget travelers - or anyone - should have a separate bank account for travel What happened this year to make us consider going back to our budget travel roots FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

Road Trip Activities: Road Trip Amazon Idea List: https://amzn.to/4lGzyte  Travel Journal for Kids: https://a.co/d/4sFw6sl  Road Trip Activity Book: https://www.emilymkrause.com/road-trip-activity-book-ages-4-8  Road Trip Scavenger Hunt: https://www.subscribepage.com/packing  Conversation Starters Blog Post: https://www.emilymkrause.com/blog/engaging-conversation-starters-for-families Travel Clipboard for Kids: https://amzn.to/4f64ij3  Road Trip Bingo: https://rstyle.me/+2j0n8F9lg4pER4POtug1CQ  Dry Erase Sleeves: https://amzn.to/4jNBte1  Crayola Color Wonder:  https://amzn.to/4isOCrA  Textured Rubbing Plates: https://amzn.to/43YrMEM  Yoto Mini: https://amzn.to/4grSDfh  Mad Libs Book: https://amzn.to/42HQjf9  Reusable Sticker Books: https://amzn.to/4iqhmkI  Sticker Puzzles: https://amzn.to/4jeAEuJ  Travel Tangram:  https://amzn.to/3Y8ZUKy  Magformers: https://amzn.to/3EI6YHc  Travel Magnatiles: https://amzn.to/4jHpKNO  Brain Quest: https://amzn.to/4lFzZnJ    Road Trip Activities Blog Post: https://www.emilymkrause.com/blog/50-road-trip-activities-for-kids-ages-4-8  FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

Whether you're on a budget and saving up for bigger trips, or you're new to travel with kids and don't know where to start, being a tourist in your own city, state, or region might be the solution for you! This topic is near and dear to my heart because I got my start as a travel writer touring my own state. We did day trips and the occational overnight or weekend trip to visit as much of Florida as we could to get content! Once we moved back to Wisconsin, we started the process over in Wisconsin and the Midwest at large. I spent almost an entire day making a Midwest bucket list, and within the next 2 years we checked off so many amazing spots we never even knew the midwest had to offer.  Staying close to home allows you to bail on the trip if the kids just aren't having it. It allows you to save money by bringing food from home. You feel comfortable being familiar with the area, and you can see if friends and family will join you! It also helps you see your area with new and fresh eyes.  FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

Today's episode is all about our spring break road trip through Washington State! We stopped in Olympic National Park (See previous episode for more details), Leavenworth, and Seattle.  FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

On today's episode of the Travel with Kids podcast, we're talking all about Olympic National Park in Washington State. It's located on the Olympic Peninsula, and the best option for visiting a National Park in spring (especially if you're not used to driving in the mountains in snow). We stayed at Kalaloch Lodge  which was the perfect spot to stay in winter and spring because it's on the coast and close to the beautiful beaches and the rainforest. If we were to visit in summer, I would do 3 or 4 nights in the park, and split our time between Kalaloch Lodge and Lake Crescent Lodge.  Lake Crescent Lodge is closer to Hurricane Ridge, a mountain area with great views and hikes, but it wasn't open during our visit (too snowy). Hurricane Ridge is an amazing spot to visit in summer with kids, though! And, of course, Lake Crescent itself is beautiful, with plenty of hikes and activities to do.  Our favorite hike was Maple Glade Rain Forest Trail, a .5 mile loop trail in the Quinault Rainforest. (Hoh Rainforest was closed during our visit because the road washed out). DO NOT MISS the coastline. Ruby Beach was the perfect spot for sunset, and Beach #4 had great tidepools. Just make sure to go during low tide. (all of these spots were near Kalaloch Lodge) Links: Unbound Merino: https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=2726326&u=1451817&m=125871&urllink=&afftrack=  Yoto Mini Player: https://amzn.to/3E1OgKs  FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

Today's episode is all about our trip to Paris for my daughter's 5th birthday! We spent 2 days in Disneyland Paris (see previous episode), and 3 days in Paris. I'll share where we stayed, what we did, and what I though was worthwhile to do with kids! Links: Zoe Stroller:  https://glnk.io/zlzjm/amomexplores  Hotels: Hotel Londres Eiffel: https://www.hotel-paris-londres-eiffel.com/en/ Best Stay Jeuneurs There are affordable apartment-style options for larger families, and it looks to be in a great location (about a 20-minute walk from the Louvre).  Crowne Plaza Paris Republique Truth be told, I almost booked this hotel. I'm a big fan of IHG and have stayed in IHG hotels in Belgium and Scotland. Both were wonderful experiences. They have rooms that fit families of 5 or 6, and breakfast options, too. I really liked the location, but it was just slightly more expensive than the hotel we booked. Fraser Suites Le Claridge Champs Elysees This was another option on my short list of places to book. We were looking at a 1-bedroom option for our trip, but I found that there are 2-bedroom options as well. This is also a little more on the expensive side, but the location cannot be beaten FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

In this episode I'm sharing all about our trip to Disneyland Paris including where we stayed, what our favorite rides were in the park, the overall costs, and taking transportation between Disneyland and Paris city center.  If you're interested, be sure to reach out to my Disney Travel Agent who can give you a free no obligation quote:  https://royalcarriagevacations.com/003 FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

In today's episode I'm answering questions sent in from listeners on Instagram about traveling with kids! Blog Post: Tips for Flying with A Car Seat FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

In this episode I share my process for preparing for upcoming trips 1 month out, 1 week out, and 1 day out. I'm not including how I book trips and plan out itineraries, but mainly discuss getting the house ready, documents I'll need, finding a place for the dog to stay, and preparing snacks and food for our travel day. FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

Are you looking for hacks to make your trip to Walt Disney World easier, cheaper, and more magical? Planning a trip to Disney World is one of the most exciting and stressful events in a parent’s life. Your whole family is thrilled about seeing Mickey and the gang, but the amount of work that goes into researching, planning, and executing a day at the parks is admittedly a lot! Here are my top tips for making your trip a little less stressful and a little more magical. Blog Posts: 55+ Disney World Hacks to Make Your Trip Easier, Cheaper, and More Magical My Favorite Disney World Photo Spots 13 Best Day Trips from Disney World  Epcot's Flower and Garden Festival with Kids Book with a Disney Travel Agent (affiliate link) We’re working with Royal Carriage Vacations to plan our next Disney World vacation, and it’s been so nice to not have to worry about every small detail! Plus my planner helped us find the best accommodations for a family of 6 within our budget. Things to Pack (affiliate links): Pack It Cooler Bag Stroller Cover Disney Autograph Book FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com

Honestly, I'm a little nervous about publishing this episode because I talk about my experience with body image and weight loss - and sometimes that can feel like a taboo subject! But keep in mind these are all MY personal experiences, thoughts, and feelings.  I'm chatting about how body image and budget can be a struggle in your quest to rediscover your style after having kids, and how that can make things like packing for a trip and taking photos on vacation much harder.  When you stock up your wardrobe with basics that you KNOW fit your body and are comfortable to wear, it makes experimenting with style so much easier. And it makes packing for a trip feel easier, too! A few of my favorite items: Abercrombie Skort Madewell Jeans White Adidas Tennis Shoes Unbound Merino - 10% off your first order with this link Athleta Skort FIND ME AT: Blog: http://www.emilymkrause.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amomexplores/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amomexplores EMAIL ME AT:  hello@amomexplores.com