Traveling to Switzerland with Kids in Winter: Long-Haul Tips for a Smooth Adventure
It all begins with an idea.
Switzerland in the winter is like stepping into a real-life snow globe — charming alpine villages, cozy chalets, snowy mountains, and rich hot chocolate at every turn. But getting there with kids, especially on a long-haul flight across time zones, can feel daunting. After our recent journey with little ones in tow, I’m sharing everything that helped us thrive — not just survive — our winter family trip to Switzerland.
Before You Fly: Prep Is Key
1. Pack Smart (but Light)
Layers are everything in Swiss winter. Opt for thermal base layers, waterproof outerwear, and good boots — but don’t overpack. A capsule wardrobe for each kid saves space and stress. Use compression cubes to organize outfits by day or activity.
Don’t forget:
Noise-canceling headphones for the plane
Kids’ medications (with a note from your pediatrician)
A tiny "busy bag" of surprises (stickers, coloring, fidget toys)
2. Book Flights Strategically
If you can, choose a red-eye flight. It’s easier for kids to sleep through the longest stretch and helps their body clocks adjust faster. Bonus points if your flight arrives in the morning — natural daylight is key to beating jet lag.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
Surviving the Long-Haul Flight
1. Seat Hacks
Bulkhead rows give extra space for kids to move or sleep.
If your airline offers a “sky couch” or extra seat, invest in it.
Bring your own inflatable footrest or airplane bed for toddlers.
2. Snack Like a Pro
Even with in-flight meals, always bring extra snacks. Think low-mess, high-protein options like:
Mini cheese sticks
Trail mix (without messy chocolate)
Fruit pouches
Crackers with a small nut butter cup (if allergy-safe)
3. Entertainment Rotation
Preload iPads or tablets with downloaded shows and games, but space them out between no-tech activities (think sticker books, audiobooks, travel bingo). Rotate every 45–60 minutes to avoid burnout.
Beating Jet Lag Across Time Zones
Traveling from the U.S. to Switzerland means crossing 6–9 time zones. Here's what worked for us:
Shift their sleep 1 hour later or earlier a few days before the trip if you can.
Don’t nap too long on arrival day — keep kids awake with fun outings until early evening.
Morning sunlight is your best friend. Bundle up and take a brisk walk with the kids to reset their body clocks.
Stick to their routine for meals and bedtime — familiar structure brings comfort in unfamiliar places.
Top Family-Friendly Winter Destinations in Switzerland
Switzerland offers incredible kid-friendly destinations with stunning scenery, walkable towns, and endless snow-filled fun:
Lauterbrunnen
This dreamy valley of 72 waterfalls looks like something out of a fairy tale. Take the kids on a train ride to Wengen or Mürren for a peaceful, car-free experience. Don't miss a winter walk along the Lauterbrunnen Valley Trail.
Grindelwald
A perfect base for snow adventures. Ride the Eiger Express gondola to Jungfraujoch (a thrill for kids!) or go sledding on the family-friendly Bodmi slope. The views of the north face of the Eiger are unforgettable.
Lucerne
Charming, cultural, and super walkable. Kids love the Swiss Transport Museum, and the old town is magical under snow. Hop on the cogwheel train up Mt. Pilatus or take a scenic boat ride on Lake Lucerne if it’s not frozen.
Zermatt
Home to the iconic Matterhorn. It's car-free, stroller-friendly, and full of winter fun. Visit the Glacier Palace inside a glacier, ride the Gornergrat Railway, or enjoy gentle ski slopes for little ones.
Interlaken
Ideal for families wanting variety. Ride the Harderbahn funicular for panoramic views, visit the Funky Chocolate Club for a hands-on treat, or use Interlaken as a base to visit surrounding towns like Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald.
Lugano
A southern gem with a Mediterranean flair — perfect if you want milder winter weather. Kids will love the funiculars, lakeside strolls, and nearby Swissminiatur park. It’s a great spot to unwind after alpine adventures.
Getting Around: Trains Are Your Best Friend
Switzerland’s trains are legendary — clean, efficient, scenic, and incredibly kid-friendly.
Swiss Family Card: Kids under 6 ride free; older kids get discounted passes with a parent’s Swiss Travel Pass.
Trains often have stroller-friendly cars, restrooms, and snack trolleys.
Scenic routes like the Glacier Express and GoldenPass Line are perfect for family bonding without the stress of driving in snow.
Final Thoughts from a Travel Mama
Traveling halfway around the world in winter with kids isn’t easy — but with the right prep and the right mindset, it’s magical. Whether you're sipping hot chocolate in Zermatt, chasing waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen, or riding the rails through snowy valleys, you’re creating something far greater than just a vacation.
You're raising explorers — you're raising GoldenHourExplorers.
12 Genius Travel Hacks for Flying & Exploring with Toddlers
It all begins with an idea.
By GoldenHourExplorers
Let’s be honest — traveling with toddlers can feel like packing for battle. Between snack meltdowns, nap disruptions, and tiny legs that refuse to walk when you need them to… it’s a journey. But it’s also one of the most magical times to explore the world with your little ones — every new place is an adventure in their eyes.
After years of airport sprints, mid-flight diaper changes, and stroller naps around the globe, here are 12 parent-approved travel hacks that make toddler travel smoother, happier, and a lot more fun.
1. Bring New (Cheap!) Toys for the Plane
Surprise = distraction. Head to the dollar section or Amazon and wrap a few small toys, stickers, or fidget gadgets. Bring them out one at a time mid-flight when boredom strikes. Bonus: unwrapping feels like a gift!
2. Use a Leak-Proof Snack Container
Toddlers will spill. A snack spinner or silicone snack cup with a lid saves your sanity. Fill it with bite-sized snacks (puffs, dried fruit, cereal). Pack double what you think you need — and then some.
3. Pack Baby Headphones + Download Shows
Load their favorite shows or movies onto a tablet before you leave home. Wi-Fi on planes is spotty, so download a mix of shows and apps for offline use. Over-ear toddler headphones are key — they won’t stay on otherwise.
4. Create a Plane Bed Hack
Use an inflatable footrest pillow (like the FlyTot or a generic version on Amazon) to turn the airplane seat into a flat toddler bed. It’s a game-changer for long-haul naps.
5. Pack a “Grab Bag” in Your Carry-On
This goes under the seat, not in the overhead bin. Fill it with:
1 change of clothes (for you AND your toddler)
Diapers + wipes + changing pad
Snacks + one water bottle
2-3 small toys
Sanitizing wipes
So when turbulence hits, you’re ready — no suitcase dive required.
6. Stick to a Loose Routine
Yes, routines fly out the window during travel — but toddlers thrive on predictability. Try to keep consistent wake, snack, and nap times (within reason) to avoid major meltdowns.
7. Board the Plane Last
Unless you need overhead space, let toddlers run off energy in the terminal for as long as possible. One less minute in that airplane seat is one less minute of “Are we there yet?”
8. Bring a Comfort Item
Whether it’s a blankie, stuffed animal, or small lovey, having a familiar item helps toddlers feel safe and calm in new places. Bonus if it smells like home.
9. Embrace the Stroller Nap
Time changes, jet lag, and overstimulation mean naps will be unpredictable. A good travel stroller (like the Babyzen YOYO or UPPAbaby Minu) that reclines is your best friend on the go. Clip a muslin blanket on top for a blackout shade.
10. Get a Passport-Size Folder for Docs
Traveling internationally? Keep your toddler’s passport, vaccine card, birth certificate (for some airlines), and boarding pass in one slim, easy-to-access folder. When a toddler’s having a tantrum at security, you’ll thank yourself.
11. Carry a Portable High Chair or Seat Harness
Not every country has high chairs. A fabric harness (like the Totseat or GOTO2) straps your toddler safely to most chairs — great for restaurants, Airbnbs, or outdoor cafes.
12. Lower Expectations, Raise Flexibility
This might be the most important hack. Toddlers move at their own pace — and that’s okay. Plan 1–2 key activities per day max, leave buffer time for snacks and play, and let the journey unfold. Often the best moments are the unplanned ones.
Final Thoughts from a Travel Mama
Yes, traveling with toddlers takes extra effort — but don’t let that hold you back. With a little planning, a few clever hacks, and a good dose of patience, you can have a trip filled with laughter, new memories, and yes — maybe even a little rest.
Remember: you’re not just getting through the trip. You’re raising explorers. And every airport sprint and nap in a stroller is part of their story.
Follow us at @GoldenHourExplorers for more family travel hacks, destination guides, and adventures around the world.
Raising Global Citizens: What My Kids Are Learning from World Travel
It all begins with an idea.
As a mom and a travel advisor, I believe that family travel isn’t just about vacations — it’s about shaping who our children become.
From safaris in South Africa to beach days in Cabo and the Dominican Republic, every journey is helping my little ones grow into compassionate, curious global citizens.
Here’s what I’ve seen them learn from the world:
1. Curiosity Is Their Passport
Asking questions, trying new things, wondering why — travel invites kids to stay curious. And I’m watching my kids realize that curiosity connects us.
2. Language Creates Connection
A “gracias” in the DR. A “howzit” in South Africa. Simple words build bridges — and show our kids that there’s beauty in every language.
3. Food Is Culture on a Plate
Tasting tostones in Punta Cana, Cape Malay curry in Cape Town, or tacos in Cabo — my kids are learning that being open to new flavors means being open to new cultures.
4. The World Is Bigger — and Smaller
They’ve met kids from different countries, and guess what? They all love to run, laugh, and play. We may live differently, but we’re all connected.
5. Flexibility Is a Superpower
Things don’t always go to plan — and that’s okay. Our travels are teaching them how to adapt, go with the flow, and find joy in the unexpected.
6. Gratitude Grows with Perspective
When kids see how others live around the world, it opens their hearts. They start to recognize the little luxuries we often take for granted.
7. Home Is Wherever We’re Together
With every trip, “home” becomes more than a place — it becomes a feeling. And that’s something they’ll carry for life. I want to make sure my kids understand the importance of roots but also wings.
Final Thought
We’re not just raising travelers. We’re raising kind, curious, globally-minded little humans. And that’s the real gift of exploring the world together.
✨ Ready to start your own family adventure?
Let me help you plan a curated, meaningful escape.
📍DM me @GoldenHourExplorers or reach out through my site.
Beach Bliss with Babies: Cabo San Lucas Resorts That Actually Work for Families
It all begins with an idea.
By GoldenHourExplorers
Cabo is known for luxury, romance, and dramatic desert-meets-ocean views — but did you know it’s also an incredible destination for families with babies and toddlers?
After exploring Cabo with my own kids, I can confidently say: you can absolutely enjoy a stylish, relaxing beach vacation with babies — without sacrificing sleep, shade, or sanity. You just need the right resort.
Here’s why Cabo works so well, and my favorite resorts that actually deliver for families with little ones.
Why Cabo Is a Dream for Families with Littles
Quick flights from the West Coast (2–3 hours from California!)
Beautiful, swimmable beaches and dramatic scenery
Warm, dry climate — with less humidity than the Caribbean
Exceptional food and service
High-end resorts that truly cater to families (even infants!)
What to Look for in a Baby-Friendly Cabo Resort
When booking in Cabo, I always advise parents to look for:
Suites with separate sleeping areas or 1-bed villas
On-site or in-room nanny services
Baby gear available on request (cribs, high chairs, bottle warmers)
Restaurants with kid-friendly options & flexible dining times
Shade on the beach and by the pool
Calm or swimmable beach areas nearby
Convenient access to town or on-site shops
Top Baby & Toddler-Friendly Resorts in Cabo San Lucas
1. Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal – Luxury Meets Family Ease
Best for luxurious, peaceful family travel
Private infinity plunge pools (great for naps + safe water play)
Cribs, high chairs, and baby amenities available on request
Spacious suites with ocean views
Warm, personalized service and on-site babysitting available
Insider tip: They’ll set up early dinners for little ones while you enjoy a sunset wine moment on your private terrace.
2. Grand Velas Los Cabos – All-Inclusive Elevated for Families
Baby concierge offers cribs, strollers, bathtubs & more
Gourmet food — yes, even the kids’ meals!
Nanny services and a baby-friendly kids club
Calming spa for tired parents and zero party vibes
Golden moment: They deliver organic purées to your suite based on your baby’s needs. Bliss.
3. Chileno Bay Resort & Residences (Auberge) – Hip, Modern & Family-Focused
Home-like suites + full kitchens for bottle warming & snack prep
Steps from one of Cabo’s few swimmable beaches
Toddler-safe pools and family cabanas
In-room babysitting and a fun kids club with age-appropriate activities
Bonus: Shallow beach entry makes this perfect for baby’s first splash!
4. Villa La Valencia Beach Resort & Spa – Spacious Suites + Lazy River Fun
Great value for families without sacrificing comfort
Full kitchens and washer/dryer in most suites
Massive lazy river that toddlers love
Family pool, calm vibes, and big rooms perfect for naps
Pro tip: Pack floaties and sunscreen — you’ll spend hours floating and playing under the Baja sun.
What to Pack for Cabo with a Baby or Toddler
Lightweight travel stroller
Baby-safe sunscreen + sun hat
Pop-up sunshade or beach tent
Rash guard swimsuits
Plenty of snacks & formula (you can buy basics in Cabo, but not always your fave brands)
Swim diapers + wet bags
Favorite books or toys for downtime in the room
Final Thoughts from a Travel Mama
Cabo is more than margaritas and adult-only hideaways. For families with babies and toddlers, it can be a blissful, stylish, low-stress vacation — full of golden hour walks, splashy smiles, and memory-making in a magical desert oasis.
Want help booking your perfect baby-friendly Cabo escape?
DM me @GoldenHourExplorers or reach out to start planning your next family adventure.
Because beach bliss with babies? It’s not just possible — it’s unforgettable.