Mistakes Families Make on Europe Trips, From Travel Advisor

It’s hard not to take a “when in Rome … and Paris, and Amsterdam” approach, especially when Europe’s train system makes it so easy to hop from one place to the next.

However, I’ve learned firsthand that visiting too many destinations on a 10-day or two-week trip can lead to burnout.

Many people forget how much work it takes to relocate, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Repacking your suitcases, figuring out logistics, and trying to move a group with luggage all take more time than you might predict.

I always tell my clients to set aside a full day for relocating to a new city, just in case they encounter some unexpected snags.

That doesn’t mean you have to stick to your city’s limits, though — checking out nearby towns and villages can be a more time-effective (and cost-effective) way to explore Europe.

When in Europe, it can be so tempting to jam-pack your days with activities — after all, you just want to make the most of your trip.

Cramming too much into a day can lead to unnecessary stress and exhaustion, though, especially if you’re also navigating a new language and environment.

I always encourage families to plan just one or two meaningful activities per day and build in free time to return to the hotel, wander without an agenda, or simply rest. Young kids, in particular, usually need downtime to process and decompress.

Most people are worried about not packing enough. Ironically, though, one of the most common packing mistakes I’ve noticed is bringing too much.

Realizing you’ve forgotten something is stressful, but trust me: lugging heavy bags across cobblestone streets or up three stories without an elevator is pretty unpleasant, too.

I always tell my clients to pack fewer pieces of clothing than they think they need. Also, remember that your hotel or Airbnb might have some products you can borrow, like umbrellas or beach towels.

It’s not uncommon for one person to take the reins of a trip, but when one parent makes all the decisions, their partner and kids can end up feeling like bystanders.

On the other hand, I’ve noticed that when every family member chooses one big activity or place to visit, each person has something to look forward to — and everyone feels more invested in the trip’s success.

Parents sometimes struggle to put their children’s wishes first. After all, it can be hard to skip the Borghese Gallery for the gelato spot that your kid really, really wants to visit.

Think about it like this, though: You’re creating a core memory that everyone in the family will remember. Although a few mistakes are inevitable, thoughtful planning can make a huge difference.