From a distance, a long-distance trip with children often seems like one big party. And believe us: it often is. Palm trees, endless beach days, sunshine every day, and plenty of local delicacies. But amidst all that beauty, all sorts of things happen too. A child suddenly waking up with a high fever, for whom a local doctor turns out to be the next stop. That one cozy street food stall we got excited about turns out to be just a little too exotic for the kids. Or an afternoon full of playtime that ends with a fall, causing the local clinic to be discovered just a little before the beach bar.

And then there are the practical surprises. The stroller decides to take a different route than the rest of the family. The suitcase containing that favorite stuffed animal that is nowhere to be found. Or a missed connection that suddenly turns the schedule completely upside down. Of course, at the very moment everyone was ready for bedtime.

We asked an expert from Interpolis which things parents really shouldn't forget before their big adventure begins. 

An important tip: check your medical coverage before you leave. After all, children discover the world the way they should: full of enthusiasm, curious, and usually without worrying too much about potential obstacles. (We would almost say: delightful.) A race to see who gets to the next pole first that gets out of hand, or a stomach that turns out to be less than thrilled with the local dishes appearing on the table—sometimes it’s all part of the adventure. Medical costs abroad can add up significantly.

What should I absolutely not forget when traveling abroad with my kids?

A little reminder we could all use: even the littlest ones need their own passport or ID. (Yes, even that mini who is mostly still busy eating sand.) Also standard in hand luggage: a small first-aid kit, plenty of snacks and drinks for the journey, and an extra set of clothes. Because accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. A cup that tips over, a diaper that decides to leak at exactly the wrong moment… you know the drill.

Are children automatically insured when traveling?

With a continuous travel insurance from Interpolis you can insure not only yourself, but also your entire family. Children are not automatically covered; you must provide the correct family composition when taking out travel insurance. Once you have done so, they naturally remain insured. Handy for that one big trip, but also for smaller getaways in between. Because sometimes the adventure isn't just in a faraway destination, but simply in a weekend away with the whole family.

From what age is a long-distance trip with children actually fun?

The big question many parents struggle with: isn't my child too young? The honest answer: there is no perfect age. A baby who mostly sleeps in a carrier, a toddler who says “wow” to everything, or a preschooler seeing monkeys in the wild for the first time… every age has its own charm. Maybe a little more planning, maybe a little less sleeping in. But that look of wonder? You get that as a gift no matter what.