Family summer vacations don't have to mean sweltering heat. Discover 5 cool-weather destinations perfect for travel with kids this summer.

In this episode of Family Travel Unpacked, host Melissa shares real experiences from epic family road trips and international adventures where summer temps stay comfortable. From Alaska's midnight sun and bear viewing to Iceland's glaciers, plus drivable trips through Michigan's Upper Peninsula and a NY-Canada loop through Quebec City and Niagara Falls—these destinations deliver adventure without the August misery.

Episode Highlights:

• Alaska: Dog sledding, Lake Clark bear viewing, Kenai Fjords cruise (10+ days)
• Iceland: Private glacier hiking, whale watching in Húsavík (10-11 days)
• NY & Canada: Finger Lakes to Quebec City to Toronto road trip (2 weeks)
• Michigan: Mackinac Island, Pictured Rocks, Tahquamenon Falls (10 days)
• Australia: Great Barrier Reef & Daintree Rainforest in their winter (3-4 weeks)

Plus honest budgeting tips, points & miles strategies, and age recommendations for each destination. Full itineraries and resources at thefamilyvoyage.com.

00:00 Welcome + Why Cool-Weather Summer Trips Are the Move
01:20 Destination #1: Alaska — Epic Wildlife, Long Days & Road Trip Planning
07:02 Destination #2: Iceland — Road Trip Basics, Weather & Who It’s Best For
12:28 Destination #3: New York State + Canada Road Trip Overview
16:42 Destination #4: Michigan Road Trip — Mackinac Island to the U.P.
21:05 Destination #5: Australia — A Winter-in-July Family Adventure Plan
26:30 Wrap-Up: The 5 Cool-Weather Summer Family Vacation Picks

Alaska:
Things to do in Alaska with kids
10 Day Alaska Itinerary
AK Husky Adventures
Kenai Fjords cruise

Iceland
Best Iceland Tours & Activities
Glacier Encounter - 10% off with code THEFAMILYVOYAGE10
Whale watching in Husavik

New York & Canada Road Trip
New York & Canada Road Trip Itinerary

Michigan
Michigan Road Trip Itinerary
Things to do in Munising
Things to do in Houghton

Australia
1-4 Week Australia Itineraries
How to get to Australia on miles

Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone.

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Planning a family trip to Banff? Join Melissa as she talks with Celine of Travel Banff Canada about visiting Banff with kids - from best times to visit and where to stay to budgeting tips and must-do activities. Celine, a mom of two living in Canmore, shares insider advice on making the most of your Canadian Rockies family vacation.

Episode highlights:

• Best seasons to visit Banff with kids and which school breaks work best
• Banff vs Canmore - where should families stay?
• Realistic budgets for accommodation, food, and activities
• Must-do activities for families and hidden local gems
• Common mistakes families make when planning Banff trips
• How long to stay and nearby destinations worth adding

Whether you're planning spring break in the Rockies or a summer mountain adventure, this episode covers everything you need to know for an amazing Banff family vacation.

Where to stay in Banff with kids
Castle Mountain Chalets
Johnston Canyon Bungalows
Baker Creek by Basecamp
Pine Bungalows Jasper

00:00 Welcome to Family Travel Unpacked
00:07 Meet Celine
02:16 Best Time to Visit Banff
09:25 Traveling with Young Kids in Banff
11:03 Planning Your Banff Trip
14:54 Accommodation Options in Banff
15:39 Budgeting for Your Banff Trip
18:27 Dining in Banff
20:22 Cost of Activities and Passes
22:09 How Long Should You Stay in Banff?
22:54 Banff Day Trips and Add-Ons
27:30 Must-Do Activities in Banff
35:00 Hidden Gems and Local Tips
37:37 Common Mistakes and Tips for Families
39:40 Guidebooks and Trip Planning Services
41:56 Conclusion and Farewell

Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone.

Blog The Family Voyage

Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel

Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop!

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Planning a family trip to the Dolomites? Learn which hiking spots work best for kids and which ones are too challenging in this practical guide.

Melissa shares honest insights from her Northern Italy trip with her 11 and 14-year-old kids, comparing family-friendly experiences like Seceda and Alpe di Siusi with more challenging hikes like Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Discover where to stay in the Dolomites with kids, driving tips for mountain roads, how to handle timed entry reservations, and whether this Instagram-famous region lives up to the hype for families.

Episode highlights:

• Best family-friendly spots: Seceda and Alpe di Siusi
• Why Tre Cime di Lavaredo is YMMV
• Essential GPS tip for navigating mountain roads
• Timed reservation requirements

Italy travel info:

• Dolomites With Kids: The World’s Most Family-Friendly Hiking
• 7 Dolomites Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Trip
• Summer Northern Italy Itinerary + Recap
• 4 Ideas to Avoid the Crowds in Venice, Italy
• Rome With Kids: Tips To Love The Eternal City
• 23 Must-Know Italy Travel Tips to Plan Your Dream Trip
• Renting a Car in Italy: La Dolce Vita on Four Wheels
• Italy Travel Apps That Will Make Your Trip Smoother
• How to Travel to Italy on a Budget

Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone.

Blog The Family Voyage

Get your free ebook The Busy Mom's Guide to Free Travel

Check out my favorite travel gear and my Etsy shop!

Chase Sapphire credit cards