Strolling through travel

Tag: Travel

  • Best Beginner Travel Cards for Disney Families

    Travel Perks That Actually Make Family Vacations Easier

    Disney vacations are some of my favorite family memories, but between flights, hotels, park tickets, and food, travel costs can add up quickly. One of the best ways we’ve made travel feel easier and more affordable over time is by using beginner-friendly travel rewards credit cards.

    You do not need to be a points expert or hardcore travel hacker to benefit from travel rewards. The right travel cards can help Disney families earn points for flights, hotels, airport perks, and everyday purchases that can eventually help offset vacation costs.

    These are some of my favorite beginner-friendly travel cards for Disney families and why they work so well for family travel.

    This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I only share products and travel tools I personally use and love.

    1. Capital One Venture X

    The Capital One Venture X is one of my favorite travel cards for making family travel feel more comfortable and less stressful.

    Some of my favorite benefits include:

    • airport lounge access
    • travel credits
    • simple rewards system
    • travel protections
    • earning miles on everyday spending

    This card works especially well for:

    • Disney vacations
    • airport travel with kids
    • long travel days
    • family flights
    • comfortable travel experiences

    Airport lounge access can make a huge difference when traveling with family, especially during delays or early morning flights.

    Club MCO was perfect for our layover

    2. Chase Sapphire Preferred

    The Chase Sapphire Preferred is one of the best beginner travel cards for families who are just getting started with points and travel rewards.

    Why so many travelers love it:

    • flexible travel points
    • dining rewards
    • travel protections
    • beginner-friendly rewards system
    • strong travel redemption options

    This card is great for:

    • Disney dining
    • travel purchases
    • everyday spending
    • beginner travel rewards users

    It is often considered one of the easiest and most approachable starter travel cards.

    3. American Express Gold Card

    The American Express Gold is especially helpful for families who spend a lot on groceries and dining throughout the year.

    Many Disney families naturally spend heavily in these categories, making it easier to build points over time.

    Some favorite benefits include:

    • grocery rewards
    • restaurant rewards
    • travel transfer partners
    • dining perks
    • strong everyday earning categories

    This card pairs really well with other travel cards when planning family vacations and Disney trips.

    4. Marriott Bonvoy Card for Swan & Dolphin Stays

    One of my favorite hotel strategies for Disney travel is using Marriott points for stays at the Swan and Dolphin hotels near Disney property.

    The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless can help families:

    • earn hotel points
    • offset Disney-area hotel costs
    • enjoy Marriott travel perks
    • build rewards through everyday spending

    The Swan and Dolphin hotels are incredibly popular with Disney travelers because they offer:

    • walking access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios
    • Disney-area convenience
    • early park entry benefits
    • Deluxe Resort area location
    • beautiful Disney-adjacent resorts

    For Disney families who stay there often, Marriott points can become incredibly valuable over time.

    5. Disney Visa Card

    The Disney Visa Card is another great beginner-friendly option for Disney fans who want simple Disney-specific perks and rewards.

    Some popular Disney Visa benefits include:

    • Disney Rewards Dollars
    • Disney shopping discounts
    • special Disney financing offers
    • cardmember Disney perks
    • Disney vacation flexibility

    This card works especially well for:

    • frequent Disney travelers
    • Disney shopping
    • Disney dining
    • families who want easy Disney rewards

    While it may not always earn the highest travel rewards overall, many Disney families love the Disney-specific perks and simplicity.

    Reward for Yacht Club Resort

    Why Travel Rewards Can Help Disney Families

    Travel rewards can help offset many vacation expenses, including:

    • flights
    • hotels
    • airport expenses
    • rental cars
    • travel purchases

    And beyond saving money, some perks simply make travel easier:

    • airport lounge access
    • travel protections
    • flexible points
    • hotel rewards
    • travel credits

    For families who already travel regularly or visit Disney often, earning rewards through normal spending can become a great long-term travel strategy.

    Beginner Tips Before Applying for Travel Cards

    If you are new to travel rewards, here are a few beginner-friendly tips:

    • start with one card at a time
    • choose cards that match your spending habits
    • pay balances in full whenever possible
    • focus on travel goals you already have planned
    • keep travel rewards simple and manageable

    The best travel rewards strategy is one that supports your normal lifestyle and family travel habits.

    Final Thoughts

    Travel rewards cards can be a great tool for Disney families looking to make vacations feel more affordable, comfortable, and enjoyable over time. You do not need complicated travel strategies to start benefiting from points, perks, and travel rewards.

    Whether you are planning Disney vacations, airport travel days, Swan & Dolphin stays, or future family adventures, the right beginner-friendly travel card can help make the journey feel a little easier.

    This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

  • Top 8 Carry-On Essentials for Stress-Free Travel

    My Favorite Carry-On Must-Haves for Stress-Free Flights

    Whether I’m heading to Disney, planning a family vacation, or preparing for a longer international trip, having the right airport essentials makes traveling so much smoother. Over the years, I’ve learned that a well-packed carry-on can completely change the travel experience — especially when flying with kids.

    These are the airport essentials I always pack to stay comfortable, organized, and stress-free during travel days.

    Shop My Travel Essentials ✈️

    Looking for my favorite airport and carry-on must-haves?
    Browse my full curated travel list here:

    Shop My Amazon Travel Essentials Here

    Entertainment for the little is a must

    1. Portable Charger

    A portable chargers is one of my absolute non-negotiables for travel days. Between phones, tablets, AirPods, and mobile boarding passes, battery life disappears quickly at the airport.

    I always keep a fully charged portable charger in my carry-on so I never have to search for an outlet during layovers.

    Perfect for:

    • Disney travel days
    • long flights
    • airport delays
    • traveling with toddlers

    2. Noise-Canceling Headphones

    Noise-canceling headphones instantly make airports and flights feel calmer and more relaxing. They’re perfect for:

    • listening to music
    • watching movies
    • drowning out airport noise
    • creating a more peaceful flight experience

    They also help make early morning flights feel much less overwhelming.

    3. Comfortable Travel Outfit

    Comfort is everything on travel days, but I still love looking put together.

    My go-to airport outfit usually includes:

    A comfortable outfit makes airport days so much easier, especially during long travel days.

    4. Refillable Water Bottle

    Staying hydrated while traveling is so important, especially during flights.

    I always bring an insulated water bottle and fill it after security before boarding. It keeps drinks cold for hours and saves money at the airport.

    5. Mini Beauty & Self-Care Essentials

    Travel-sized beauty products help me feel refreshed after long flights and busy airport days.

    My favorites include:

    These small items make a huge difference during travel.

    6. Organized Carry-On Bag

    Having an organized carry-on keeps everything easier to find during flights.

    I use small pouches or organizers for:

    This makes security lines and in-flight access much less stressful.

    7. Travel Snacks

    Airport food isn’t always reliable, especially with kids.

    I always pack:

    Snacks are essential for avoiding unnecessary airport stress and keeping everyone happy during delays.

    8. Tablet or iPad for Entertainment

    For family travel, an iPad or tablet is one of the best things to bring.

    Downloading:

    • movies
    • games
    • Disney shows
    • coloring apps

    before the flight helps keep travel days smoother and more relaxing.

    9. Travel Pillow & Cozy Extras

    Long flights feel so much better with a few cozy travel items.

    I usually bring:

    Small comfort items make a huge difference during travel days.

    Final Thoughts

    Travel days feel so much easier when you’re prepared with the right essentials. Whether you’re flying to Disney, heading on a family vacation, or planning a bigger adventure, these airport must-haves help make travel more comfortable, organized, and stress-free.

    I love finding travel products that combine comfort, convenience, and a little bit of luxury — especially for busy airport days with family.

    Save this list before your next trip and start building your perfect carry-on setup.

  • Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween: A Boo-tiful Extravaganza of Do’s and Don’ts


    Hey there, fellow Disney ghouls and goblins! Are you ready to embark on a wickedly wonderful journey to the happiest haunt on Earth? Well, hold on to your Mickey ears because we’re about to delve into the enchanting world of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! This spine-tingling Disney event promises spooky fun for all ages, and we’ve got a lighthearted guide packed with do’s and don’ts to ensure you have a fang-tastic time. So, grab your broomsticks and pumpkin spice lattes as we cast a spell of laughter and joy on this fantastic Halloween adventure!

    Do’s:

    1. Dress to Impress: Embrace your inner Disney character or channel your spooktacular creativity with a mind-blowing costume! From pint-sized princesses to adventurous pirates, the more imagination, the better. Just remember, family-friendly costumes are the key to a magical night!
    2. Trick-or-Treat with Gusto: Who said trick-or-treating was just for kids? Grab a treat bag and join the candy quest! Disney knows how to satisfy those sweet cravings, and the candy stations spread throughout the park are proof that the haunted fun knows no age limits.
    3. Snap-a-Lot: Capturing memories is as essential as pumpkin spice on Halloween. Keep those cameras charged and ready because you’ll encounter Disney characters donning spooktacular costumes, and you’ll want to snap a selfie with every single one of them!
    4. Howl with the Boo-to-You Parade: When the clock strikes parade time, make sure you’ve got a primo spot along Main Street, U.S.A. This spooktacular procession boasts everything from cheerful ghosts to villains who forgot they’re supposed to be scary – pure Disney magic!
    5. Prepare to Be Bewitched: The Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular is a must-see! The Sanderson Sisters have come back from the grave, and they’re ready to put on a spell-binding show with their mischievous humor. Hocus Pocus fans, rejoice!

    Don’ts:

    1. Don’t Get Spooked by Crowds: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is wildly popular, so be prepared for some monstrous crowds. But fear not! Arrive early to maximize your magical moments and scare away any worries about lines.
    2. Don’t Forget Your Boo-tiful Ticket: You’ll need a special ticket for the event, but trust us, it’s worth every ghastly penny. Book early to avoid the fright of missing out!
    3. Don’t Get Lost in the Haunted Attractions: While the Haunted Mansion is a classic must-see, remember there are many bewitching rides with shorter lines during the party. Hop on the revamped Pirates of the Caribbean or fly high with Dumbo for a different kind of Halloween thrill.
    4. Don’t Miss the Hauntingly Delicious Treats: From pumpkin-spiced everything to candy-corn-covered goodies, Disney serves up spooktacular treats that will leave your taste buds howling for more. Don’t let these treats disappear like a ghost; try as many as you can!
    5. Don’t Leave Early: Last but not least, stay until the stroke of midnight (or at least until the park closes)! Witness the spellbinding Boo-to-You Finale, where the Hitchhiking Ghosts and the Spectral Bride close the party with a burst of magic and mischief.

    Congratulations, brave Halloween adventurers! You’ve survived our wickedly delightful journey through Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. With our do’s and don’ts in hand, you’re all set to enjoy a hauntingly happy time at the Magic Kingdom. So, get ready to embrace the spooktacular spirit, dance with the Disney villains, and collect enough candy to rival a sugar coma. Now, go forth and have a boo-tiful time! Happy haunting! 🎃👻

  • My Favorite Travel Necessities while Traveling with kids: Amazon edition

    Traveling with kids can be both exciting and challenging, but having the right travel essentials can make the journey smoother and more enjoyable for the whole family. In this blog post, I’ll share my favorite travel necessities for traveling with kids, all conveniently available on Amazon. From organization tools to entertainment options and safety gear, these items have become must-haves for our family trips. Let’s get started!

    Travel Stroller: A lightweight and compact travel stroller is a game-changer when exploring new destinations with kids. Look for a stroller that folds easily, has a reclining seat for napping, and is suitable for various terrains. Bonus features like a sun canopy, storage basket, and a one-handed folding mechanism are added conveniences.

    Travel Snack Containers: Keeping kids fed and happy during travel is crucial. Invest in travel-friendly snack containers that are spill-proof and easily portable. Look for containers with divided compartments to keep different snacks separate and prevent them from getting crushed. Some containers even come with built-in ice packs to keep snacks fresh.

    Car Seat Travel Bag: If you’re traveling by car or plane and need to bring along a car seat, a car seat travel bag is essential. These bags protect your car seat from damage during transit and make it easier to carry. Look for a durable, padded bag with adjustable straps and a convenient handle for hassle-free transportation.

    Portable Travel High Chair: Eating out with young children can be challenging, but a portable travel high chair can make it easier. Look for a compact, lightweight high chair that attaches securely to different types of chairs. Some models are designed with easy-to-clean materials and include a tray for convenient feeding on the go.

    Travel Activity Kits: Keeping kids entertained during travel is crucial for a smooth journey. Invest in travel activity kits that include coloring books, stickers, puzzles, and other age-appropriate activities. Look for kits that come in a compact and portable case for easy storage and organization. Some kits even include a lap tray for comfortable play.

    Travel First Aid Kit: Safety is a top priority when traveling with kids. A travel first aid kit is a must-have for any family trip. Look for a compact kit that includes essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and other basic medical supplies. It’s also a good idea to include any necessary medications specific to your child’s needs.

    Travel-Friendly Headphones: If you’re planning to keep your kids entertained with electronic devices, invest in travel-friendly headphones. Look for headphones designed specifically for kids with adjustable sizes, volume limits, and durable construction. Wireless options are convenient and eliminate the hassle of tangled cords.

    Traveling with kids requires careful planning and the right travel essentials. The items mentioned in this blog post, all available on Amazon, have become my favorite travel necessities for family trips. From keeping kids entertained and well-fed to ensuring their safety and comfort, these products will help make your travel experience with kids more enjoyable. Happy travels with your little ones!

  • Traveling to the Mountains: Helen, GA edition

    Helen, GA is a charming Bavarian-style town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. There’s so much to see and do in this picturesque town, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Here are some of the top things to do in Helen, GA:

    Cozy Cabin views

    Explore the Chattahoochee River – The Chattahoochee River runs right through Helen, GA, and it’s the perfect place to go tubing, kayaking, or fishing. You can rent equipment from one of the many outfitters in town and spend a relaxing day on the water.

    Go wine tasting – Helen, GA is home to several wineries, and you can spend a day sampling local wines and enjoying the beautiful vineyards. Some of the top wineries in the area include Habersham Winery, Creekstone, and Yonah Mountain Vineyards.

    Creekstone Winery

    Experience Bavarian culture – Helen, GA is known for its Bavarian-style architecture and culture. You can stroll through the town and admire the colorful buildings, enjoy traditional German food and beer, and even attend one of the many festivals that take place throughout the year. Our little one loved Hansel & Greek Candy Kitchen.

    Visit the Helen Arts & Heritage Center – The Helen Arts & Heritage Center is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the area. You can view local art exhibits, attend workshops and classes, and even purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs.

    https://www.helenarts.org

    Overall, Helen, GA is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and culture of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a wine lover, or a history buff, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.

  • Traveling Tips with our little.

    Let’s go see the animals. Seaworld edition.

    Hey everyone!

    Are you planning a family vacation with your little one? Traveling with a child can be a bit challenging, but with the right tips, it can be a breeze! Here are some of the best travel tips when traveling with a child that worked best for us:

    1. Pack smart: Make sure to pack all the essentials your child needs, such as diapers, wipes, snacks, and toys. Also, don’t forget to bring a change of clothes for your child and yourself in case of any accidents.
    2. Plan ahead: Research your destination and plan your itinerary accordingly. Make sure to include activities that your child will enjoy, such as visiting a zoo or amusement park. Most amusement parks have an app to make planning easier.
    3. Be flexible: Traveling with a child can be unpredictable, so be prepared to change your plans if needed. Don’t stress if your child needs a nap or a break from activities.
    4. Stay safe: Always keep an eye on your child and make sure they are safe. Use child-friendly transportation, such as car seats or strollers, and keep your child close to you in crowded areas. For our little she loves to walk around, we will find a place that is not crowded so she can take her walking breaks.
    5. Have fun: Remember to enjoy your vacation and make memories with your child. Take lots of photos/videos and have fun exploring new places together!

    Traveling with a child can be a wonderful experience, and with these tips, you can make it a stress-free and enjoyable one. Happy travels! 🌴🌞👨‍👩‍👧

  • Meet the Family

    Meet Mama Your Travel Guide

    Maybe you are looking for ideas about your next Disney trip or inspiration on travel items? Perhaps you were scrolling through Amazon and not sure which item would travel well with your kids? However you wandered through the web and brought you to Strolling through travel, Welcome.

    My name is Erin and I will be your travel guide. Please stand clear of the doors. Por favor mantenganse alejado de las puertas.

    Strolling through Travel is our story as a family checking out places and seeing what the world has to offer. As a new mama, it was very important to me to create memories that will last a lifetime and help my baby see the beauty of all cultures and sites. It is tough navigating through a pandemic, so to avoid any boredom at home we will also share our Amazon must haves to keep the littles busy.

    Meet Dada travel companion

    Meet my husband, Jeff. He is your go-to foodie guide. Whenever traveling he is the one trying the newest items and letting me know if it was worth it or not. Looking for the best driver around for those long car trips? Look no further, he will get you to your destination and make the car trip fun. He knows his way around Disneyworld like the back of his hand. I couldn’t ask for a better travel companion and daddy to our little traveler.

    Little travel companion

    My reason for creating this fun blog is not only to help everyone navigate through traveling with our littles, it is to also create this journal for Mila to look back on and see the adventures she has already accomplished. She can be a little sassy at times, but is always ready for her next adventure.