Step 9
Your world trip will be a whirlwind of incredible moments: the gasp-worthy views, the hilarious mishaps, the quiet connections. Documenting your journey is about more than just taking photos; it’s about creating a treasure chest of memories that your family can revisit for years to come. It’s also a powerful way to process your experiences and share your adventure with loved ones back home.
Here’s how to capture the magic in a way that’s fun and sustainable, plus tips for surviving those inevitable long travel days.
Create memories that last a lifetime
Find a method of documenting that feels like a joy, not a chore.
- Photography & Videography: Go beyond the posed smiles in front of landmarks. Capture the in-between moments: your child’s face lit up with wonder at a bustling market, the messy joy of eating a dripping gelato, a quiet afternoon reading in a hammock. Short video clips can capture the sounds and atmosphere of a place in a way photos can’t.
- The Family Travel Blog: Platforms like WordPress or even a simple Instagram account can be a wonderful way to tell your stories. It’s a fantastic way to keep friends and family in the loop and creates a digital scrapbook you’ll cherish forever.
- Journaling: A simple notebook can be the most powerful tool. Encourage everyone who can write or draw to keep their own journal. It’s a space for them to process their thoughts and feelings. A family journal, where everyone contributes, can become a priceless heirloom.
- Involve the kids: This is their story, too!
- Give them a camera: Hand over an old smartphone or a durable, kid-proof camera. You’ll be amazed at the world from their perspective—expect lots of photos of cats, weird bugs, and their own feet.
- Let them be the interviewer: Use a phone’s voice recorder to have them “interview” you or their siblings about the day’s events.
- Create a scrapbook on the go: Pack a blank notebook and a glue stick. Let the kids paste in ticket stubs, postcards, and maps, and then draw or write about their experiences.
Planning Tip: We highly recommend the app Polarsteps. It automatically tracks your route on a map and creates a beautiful, easy-to-use timeline where you can add photos and stories. At the end of your trip, you can order a stunning hardcover photo book with the click of a button.
Survive (and even enjoy!) long travel days
Bus rides, flights, and train journeys are a necessary part of the adventure. With a little preparation, they don’t have to be a drag.
- The almighty snack bag: This is your number one priority. Pack a variety of healthy (and a few not-so-healthy) snacks and plenty of water. A hungry kid is a grumpy kid.
- The digital babysitter: Don’t feel guilty about screen time. Load up tablets with movies, shows, and games downloaded in advance. A good pair of kid-friendly headphones for each child is non-negotiable.
- Go old-school: Pack a surprise bag of low-tech entertainment. Think coloring books, a deck of cards, sticker books, or a new chapter book to read aloud. Audiobooks are also a fantastic screen-free option.
- Embrace the journey: Turn the trip into a game. Play “I Spy,” look for different colored cars, or have the kids help you track your progress on a map.
Keeping in touch with loved ones
Staying connected to your community back home is important for both you and your kids.
- Schedule video calls: Set up regular calls with grandparents and friends. Be mindful of time zones. Let the kids give them a “tour” of your latest apartment or show them a cool souvenir.
- Share your blog or social media: This is an easy way for people to follow your journey without you having to repeat the same stories over and over.
- Postcards are pure magic: In a digital world, receiving a physical postcard is a special treat. Let your kids pick them out, write a short message (or draw a picture), and find a local postbox. It’s a great way for them to connect with friends and family.
By thoughtfully documenting your trip and staying connected, you’re not just living an adventure—you’re weaving a rich story that will become a legendary part of your family’s history.