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The Suitcase Chronicles

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

Why I Hate VRBOs (And What I Recommend Instead)

VRBO vs Hotels: What Works Better for Families

Okay, let’s talk about something that might ruffle a few feathers: I hate VRBOs. 😬 Don’t get me wrong—vacation rentals can work in some situations. But after years of planning
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Decision Fatigue Is Real: Why So Many Family Trips Stall Before They Start

Stop Travel Overwhelm: How to Choose a Trip

Have you ever opened your laptop to plan a family vacation… and found yourself drowning in tabs an hour later? One search for “best family vacations” leads to 100 new
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Big Memories, Close to Home: Why We Love Mini-Trips

Big Memories, Close to Home: Why We Love Mini-Trips

There’s a belief that family travel has to mean big, expensive, faraway trips. But some of our best memories have been made just a couple of hours from home. When
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Traveling with Dietary Restrictions: Why Early Communication is Everything

How to Travel Safely with Dietary Restrictions

Family Travel Tips for Dietary Restrictions Travel with Allergies: Why Early Planning Wins While my own family doesn’t have dietary restrictions, I’ve planned trips for families who do—and I’ve learned
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How We Beat Jet Lag (and Enjoyed NYC on Day 1)

Jet Lag Made Easy for Families: NYC Nights & Hawaii Sunrises

Traveling across time zones with kids can feel intimidating. Jet lag isn’t just a “grown-up problem”—little ones feel it too. Over the years, we’ve learned a few tricks that make
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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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