Traveling to Europe with kids right after school ends can be an incredibly rewarding experience, especially when you plan ahead to make the journey smoother for everyone involved. From personal experience, one of the best ways to handle long-term travel as a family is to embrace the idea of living out of a suitcase, which offers flexibility and keeps packing manageable. One tip I’ve found invaluable is to focus less on the typical city hotspots and instead explore the outskirts and smaller towns. For example, while everyone flocks to Paris or Rome, consider places like the Amalfi Coast with its stunning coastal views, or the charming countryside around Austria. These less crowded destinations offer unique cultural experiences and more space for kids to roam and enjoy nature. If you happen to be visiting family abroad, as in Sweden, it’s a wonderful chance for your children to connect with their heritage, which adds a whole new dimension to your trip. Planning family visits around school breaks is perfect, since kids are free and can participate fully in the experience. Camping trips, especially in stunning countries like Norway, can be a memorable way to immerse yourselves in nature while keeping travel costs lower. Just remember to pack appropriate gear and involve the kids in planning fun outdoor activities. Given long travel days and different time zones, establishing a routine similar to what your kids have at home can help ease the transition. I always packed healthy snacks like acai bowls or fresh fruits to keep energy levels up and moods stable. Also, involving kids in simple daily rituals like preparing smoothies after school—or after a day of sightseeing—can make new environments feel more familiar. Lastly, when planning your Europe trip after leaving Hawaii, consider logistics like storage for your belongings back home and accommodation that suits family needs. It’s a unique chance to avoid rent or mortgage payments and embrace the freedom of travel without the usual financial pressures. If you’re leaving soon like we are, take advantage of this rare window to create unforgettable memories spanning multiple countries and cultures. And don’t hesitate to ask locals or fellow travelers for tips; their insights will be priceless for making the most out of your European summer adventure.