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The Suitcase Chronicles

Catch up on the latest travel news and tips to make your family trip one to remember!

The Travel Gear & Tech That Save My Sanity on Family Trips

The Best Travel Gear for Kids and Parents

Every family has their “can’t leave home without it” travel essentials. For us, these items are the difference between smooth adventures and total meltdowns. Here’s a peek into what actually
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Travel Mistakes I've Made, So You Don't Have to

The 4 Travel Mistakes I Made with Kids

Listen, even travel planners make mistakes. The good news? Every “oops” moment turns into a better strategy next time. Here are a few of my personal family travel mishaps that
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Photos of a beach and a couple in Europe with the text, "Free Travel!"

Points and Miles for Families: Free Vacations Made Simple

If you’ve ever wondered if traveling with points and miles really works… I’m living proof it does. Since we started using points and miles, my family has flown to Hawaii,
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O'ahu Hawaii with the text, "Itinerary Ideas"

4-Day Oʻahu Itinerary: How to See Hawaii’s Highlights

If you’ve never been to Oʻahu, Hawaii—it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Honolulu, the North Shore, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head… how do you fit it all in?
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Cruise ship with the text, "Is Costco Really Cheaper?"

The Truth About Costco Cruises: What You’re Missing

Costco Travel is a big name—and sometimes, their cruise prices are great. But here’s what they don’t give you: personalized service. I recently helped a family compare their Alaska Royal
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A man on a wine tour with the text "Traveling Solo vs. A Tour"

Tours Made Easy: Why Booking One Could Be Your Best Move

Planning your dream trip and wondering if you should book a tour—or try to piece it all together yourself? Let’s be honest: DIY travel sounds adventurous. But when it comes
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Kids watching a plane land with the text "Is It Safe to Travel" and "Here's My Perspective"

Is It Safe to Travel Right Now? Here’s the Truth

I get this question all the time: “Is it really safe to travel these days?” Here’s my honest answer: yes, but smartly. We live in a complex world, and not
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Photos of sisters with the text "Hi! Nice to Meet You! Why we travel with kids."

Family Travel: Why It’s Worth Every Effort and Dollar

We have new readers, so time for an introduction post! I’m Melissa, and I’m a family travel designer, but more importantly, I’m a mom who believes that travel is one
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