travelwith3bubs

Travel Tips, Family Friendly Holidays and Life in Hong Kong

Category: Family Travel Tips

  • How to Survive 3 days in Osaka in the Summer with a 12 year old – To Do List

    How to Survive 3 days in Osaka in the Summer with a 12 year old – To Do List

    With only 3 days in Osaka we managed to hit many of the must do attractions. Here is a quick run down of everywhere we went in the blazing heat of Osaka in the Summer!

    Universal Studios Japan

    Super Nintendo World, Osaka
    Super Nintendo World

    For my 12 year old, this was the highlight and specifically Super Nintendo World. This is a must do for all Mario lovers.

    Just a heads up – the queues are insane. The park opened at 8.30am but the queues were already huge at 7.30am! Check out my detailed blog The Ultimate Guide to Universal Studios Japan (2025).

    Osaka Aquarium

    Osaka Aquarium

    The Aquarium in Osaka is brilliant. Definitely worth visiting. If you are staying in the Universal Studios vicinity you can take the Captain Line ferry. It is quick and easy. Tickets available on Klook or at the ferry booth.

    Osaka Castle

    Osaka Castle

    The Castle is a fairly long walk from the train station with a big hill. Again, queues to enter the Castle are long. In the summer heat it is draining and not a lot of upside for kids. If you want to see some cultural sights then go. But if not then skip!

    Dotonbori

    Dotonbori is a fun evening excursion. Buy street food and watch the sea of humanity. A feast for all the senses and definitely worth a night visit. To avoid the hoards head there just before it gets dark as it gets much busier later in the evening.

    Harukas 300

    Harukas 300

    Easy to get to by train and above a large department store. Abeno Harukas is the tallest building in Osaka. It is exciting to take the elevator to the top floor and the views from the observation deck are terrific. This is one of the attractions included in the Klook combo pass and definitely worth a visit.

    Expo 2025

    Expo 2025 will finish up on 13 October 2025. The three tier lottery allocation system to gain entry into most pavilions is ridiculous and the queues are again insane. Only consider going if you have planned in advance and are super keen. Otherwise I would definitely give this one a miss.

    Final Survival Tips Visiting Osaka in the Summer with a 12 year old

    • Buy an ICOCA card. This saves having to buy individual train tickets and you can also use it at vending machines and convenience stores.
    • Use anything that aids in keeping you cool! Do not be embarrassed to walk around with an umbrella, electric fan, ice band around your neck…anything and everything! It is SO HOT!
    • Be prepared to queue. For everything! Universal Studios and EXPO had the biggest queues but it really can’t be avoided at all tourist spots. Add to that the hot sun and limited shade and it is definitely a challenge.

    Despite facing huge queues and a blazing sun, we had a fantastic time. Osaka is super fun and your children will love it!

    travelwith3bubs

    Ā© 2025. All content and photographs copyright (c) 2025 travelwith3bubs. All rights reserved.

  • The Ultimate Guide to Universal Studios Japan (2025) – Everything you Need to Know

    The Ultimate Guide to Universal Studios Japan (2025) – Everything you Need to Know

    Universal Studios Japan

    Having spent a full day from opening to closing, here are my tips and tricks to survive the day!

    Universal Citywalk

    My first tip is to stay at a hotel around Universal Citywalk. There are several hotels within the complex and there are many upsides to staying near the park. If you fly into Osaka there is an airport bus that will take you directly to Universal Studios. Staying near Universal Studios allows for easy access for an early start and late finish. There are many dining options in Universal Citywalk but try to avoid during peak times. This includes closing time for Universal Studios when the hoards descend. Also note the restaurants close quite early. The Universal City train station also makes it super convenient if you want to travel anywhere within Osaka.

    Getting There

    Universal City Station is the train station for Universal Studios. You can also get to Universal Studios by bus, sea shuttle and taxi. The easiest is by walking from your hotel within the complex!

    Accommodation

    Singulari Hotel - Universal Studios Japan
    Singulari Hotel next to Universal City train station

    We stayed at the Singulari Hotel and Skyspa. Very reasonably priced hotel with an amazing location next to Universal City train station. I chose it specifically for its spa which is a typical Japanese bath house located on the top floor. Unfortunately it gets very busy in the evenings so I only used it once. The rooms are nothing fancy and quite small but perfectly adequate. The hotel only does breakfast which is buffet. I found the breakfast average and preferred grabbing a coffee and pastry from one of the nearby convenience stores.

    Tickets for Universal Studios Japan

    You first need to buy a Studio Pass to get entry into Universal Studios. I would also highly recommend buying a Universal Express Pass. Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter also need separate timed entry tickets. These do not cost extra but must be obtained when you enter the park. If you buy an Express Pass you can book your timed entry tickets at the same time. The easiest way to buy Studio Pass, Express Pass and timed entry tickets is through Klook. There are also combo bundles which include the Have Fun in Kansai pass. This gives free entry into several attractions around Osaka. See my To Do List on other things to do in Osaka.

    Entering Universal Studios Japan

    Depending what time the park opens, it is recommended to start queuing an hour before. Yes you read that correctly. An hour before opening time. If the park opens at 8.30am there will already be a large queue by 7.30am. Crowd control is good and everyone waits patiently despite the high temperatures and no cover. Important tip – bring shelter and cooling props! For example, an umbrella, sunscreen, fans – paper or electric, ice neck bands… anything that will help keep you cool.

    Top Tip – go early to hit the rides with no queues. Everything will have a queue as the day goes on. In the morning you can probably enter Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter without a booking. You can then get a preview of the World as your child probably can’t wait for their actual timed entry. The queues will already be long so you can return later to do the rides during your assigned time.

    Top Tip – The Express Pass gives you a choice between two rides. Try and do one of each pair in the morning when there is no queue. That way you can use the Express Pass on the other ride later.

    The Rides at Universal Studios Japan

    Must Do’s

    Universal Studios is separated into several areas which each have their own set of rides and attractions. Apart from Universal Wonderland which is for younger children we went on every ride in the park which were :

    • Minion Park – Freeze Ray Sliders, Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem, Illuminationā€™s Villain-Con Minion Blast
    • The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Flight of the Hippogriff, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
    • Amity Village – JAWS
    • Jurassic Park – Jurassic Park The Ride, The Flying Dinosaur
    • Hollywood – Hollywood Dream: The Ride, Hollywood Dream: The Ride Backdrop, Space Fantasy – The Ride
    • Super Nintendo World – Mine Cart Madness, Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, Yoshi’s Adventureā„¢

    I would say do them all! The only warning being Hollywood Dream: The Ride and Hollywood Dream: The Ride Backdrop (the same rollercoaster only backwards!) are pretty thrilling and The Flying Dinosaur is the scariest rollercoaster I have ever encountered.

    Super Nintendo World is phenomenal, especially if you have grown up playing Mario. All the rides, although not necessarily exciting are worth doing. Mine Cart Madness is brilliant and the queuing area through Bowser’s Castle for Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge is incredible.

    At Super Nintendo World you can buy a Power Up band to have an interactive experience with the power blocks. This is gimmicky but kids love it and it’s a cute souvenir.

    Top Tip – Don’t queue at the carts to buy Power Up bands. Wait until you are inside Super Nintendo World. Go to Mario Motors at the lower level. Head straight to the cashier and they have Power Up bands for purchase.

    We spent the entire day and night at Universal Studios Japan. Literally arriving before it opened and leaving when it closed, clocking up 24,420 steps. Kids and adults alike will have a brilliant time at Universal Studios Japan. Just be prepared for the queues and the heat and you’ll be all good!

    USJ Osaka
    Universal Studios Japan

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    Ā© 2025. All content and photographs copyright (c) 2025 travelwith3bubs. All rights reserved.

  • How to Pronounce “Caribbean” – A Paradise Worth Visiting ?

    How to Pronounce “Caribbean” – A Paradise Worth Visiting ?

    How to say “Caribbean”? Cuh-RIB-be-an or Car-ib-BEE-an? That is the question what is the answer?

    Most explanations simply suggest you can choose the one that feels more natural. Both seemingly correct and commonly accepted. But I prefer the more grammatical suggestion.

    • If used as a NOUN then it should be pronounced Car-ib-BEE-an e.g. Pirates of the Caribbean.
    • If used as an ADJECTIVE then it should be Cuh-RIB-be-an e.g. a Caribbean cruise.

    So is the Caribbean worth visiting?

    Caribbean - blue water and cactus

    I think the answer to this lies in where you live. If you are in North America or in the neighborhood then YES absolutely visit the Caribbean. There are so many enchanting, vibrant and relaxing islands to choose. If you are coming from Asia Pacific though, there are definitely closer islands without schlepping half way across the world!

    We recently returned from a fantastic cruise which visited the Panama Canal, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao and Cartagena. A brilliant cruise but 22 hours travel door to door is quite the effort!

    The stunning blue water and soft sand, gorgeous beaches and excellent snorkeling were all highlights. The Panama Canal was also a fantastic experience. I thought it was on my husband’s bucket list but apparently that was the Suez Canal. Easy mistake – attention to detail not being my strong suit. Another blog on this cruise will follow!

    So, in summary, try to say “Caribbean” depending on whether it is being used as a noun or an adjective. Though using them interchangeably seems to be the norm.

    And definitely check out this captivating and exotic part of the world if it’s not too difficult to visit. If you’re on the other side of the world though, I will have some other options for you. Just as breathtaking, relaxing and tropical. More blogs to follow!

    Happy speech and travels

    Shareen

    travelwith3bubs

    Ā© 2025. All content and photographs copyright (c) 2025 travelwith3bubs. All rights reserved.

  • Important Tips -Taking The Stress Out Of Japan’s Train Network

    Important Tips -Taking The Stress Out Of Japan’s Train Network

    The train system in Japan is truly fantastic. If you are visiting Japan you will be sure to make use of it. A wonderful way to explore the country and it is incredibly reliable. Here are a few tips we wished we knew before our first family train journey.

    3 Train Tips

    The biggest mistake travelers make is having too much luggage.

    The most stressful thing imaginable is standing on the platform as the bullet train (shinkansen) comes into the station. Getting yourself, your family and your luggage on the train should not of itself sound stressful. The exception to this is when you have all of 2 minutes to get on board along with everyone else!

    Tip 1 – The less luggage you have, the less stressful it will be.

    Apart from getting your luggage onboard in quick time, the other major issue is finding space on the train. There is very little storage space and often you will need to store your suitcase at your seat. There is usually space above your seat but this is only for smaller bags.

    Tip 2 – Buy your tickets in advance online.

    It is also worth collecting your tickets for the return journey at the same time. If you have booked Green or Gran Class you will get two tickets each way. So make sure you have four tickets (per person) in total. So long as you do not misplace your return tickets it saves queuing up later, especially after a ski trip. If you are collecting JR tickets make sure you show the email with your Member number in full.

    Tip 3 – Be super quick.

    Be ready to get on the train as soon as it arrives at the station. Give everyone in the family a task – whether it be holding a bag or just finding their seat. I am always shocked and impressed when the train leaves the station at the exact time it is scheduled. Usually this is within minutes of arrival.

    You will have a brilliant holiday in Japan and will make great use of the incredible train system. If you follow my tips I guarantee you will have a much less stressful experience.

    Happy commuting!

    Shareen

    travelwith3bubs

    Ā© 2025. All content and photographs copyright (c) 2025 travelwith3bubs. All rights reserved.

  • Club Med is Perfect for Families : Discover Stress Free Holidays

    Club Med is Perfect for Families : Discover Stress Free Holidays

    We are big cruise fans so that would be our first choice for a family holiday. But if you would prefer to stay on dry land then Club Med is perfect for families.

    Before having kids the thought of going to Club Med was definitely not on the radar. Now I would say it is the BEST holiday on land with kids!

    Rounding up the troops for a family holiday is not exactly stress free. Thinking about activities to keep all age groups amused is one issue. Then you have to find eateries to cater to all the different diets. Even deciding where to go is exhausting. All this palaver before even leaving the house! To tackle all of these issues, Club Med comes to the rescue!

    Why is Club Med Perfect for Families?

    Like cruising, Club Med holidays are all inclusive. There will be extra costs for a few things but on the whole most things are included. As our middle child says ā€œEverything is Freeā€!

    All inclusive holidays take the stress out of deciding where to eat, drink and what activities to do. You can eat, drink and do everything!

    Kids also love kids. Preferably kids they know but if not then others are fine! There are always kids to play with at Club Med. There are also so many activities on offer to keep kids amused from morning until late at night.

    Club Med Beach Holidays

    We have been to several Club Med resorts in South East Asia and the kids absolutely loved them. Having extended family and friends join also added to the experience. From flying trapeze to water skiing, horse riding to cooking classes. There are so many activities to keep your kids busy and entertained. A highlight is that there is usually a fabulous performance by all the children. So much effort goes into the shows and the staff truly go above and beyond to create a fun atmosphere.

    Having said all of the above, we are not actually beach holiday people! As great as the Club Med beach holidays are, the Club Med ski holidays are even better!

    Club Med Ski Holidays

    club med kids club

    With immediate onsite fitting for boots and skis on arrival it doesnā€™t get easier than this. Group classes are all included. There are kids clubs for all ages. Like the beach resorts, they also put on great shows involving the kids and cute award ceremonies. Not forgetting the most important – ski in/ski out. All of which adds up to the easiest ski holiday experience with kids.

    The only ā€œhardā€ part is getting your child dressed in the morning. Tip 1 – tell small child to go to the loo first. Even if they don’t feel like it! The rigmarole of shedding the layers as soon as they have been put on is quite an exercise in patience! Once your child is kitted up, you hand them off to kids club. Then you donā€™t see them again until the end of the ski day. Brilliant! Tip 2 – label all items beforehand. This makes it much easier for staff to find their gloves, beanies and neck warmers.

    Another reason why we love these holidays are that the kids are outside for most of the day. Best of all there is minimal screen time.

    In terms of kids club, I would recommend waiting until the kids are at least 4 years old. That way they can attend ski lessons. Of course you can always go earlier as there are babysitting services.

    With kids in kids club and ski school the parents can enjoy their own ski or spa time.

    If you have kids I highly recommend you embrace Club Med and all it has to offer. Club Med is perfect for families and once you experience it you will discover why.

    Happy holidays.

    Shareen

    travelwith3bubs

    Ā© 2025. All content and photographs copyright (c) 2025 travelwith3bubs. All rights reserved.

  • 3 Unmissable Restaurants You Need To Try in Nozawa Onsen

    3 Unmissable Restaurants You Need To Try in Nozawa Onsen

    A Top 3 Unmissable Restaurants list is pretty tough for Nozawa Onsen. You will not get a bad meal anywhere but I have narrowed the list down as much as possible. All the tempura, udon and soba restaurants are fabulous so for the most part I have not mentioned them individually. I just recommend you try as many as you can! For other tips on this gorgeous village see Nozawa Onsen – The Best Japanese Ski Resort. I have mentioned if booking in advance is recommended but you cannot reserve tables anywhere for lunch.

    My Top 3 Unmissable Restaurants

    Best restaurants - Buna

    Buna

    A lunch institution.

    Take the Hikage gondola up to Paradise and ski a quarter of the way down the mountain. Pop your name on the board and wait for your group to be called. Comfort food. Spectacular views. Great vibe.

    The only drawback is those who don’t ski or snowboard won’t be able to join you for lunch.

    Tengu Sushi

    Best restaurant - tengu sushi

    One of the more expensive meals in Nozawa Onsen but the dining experience Chef Dan-San creates is wonderful. It is a set omakase dinner. Two seatings at 5.30pm and 8pm. Kids are only allowed at the earlier 5.30pm seating and there is no kids menu.

    This is one of the few restaurants that I would recommend booking well in advance. Bookings open 90 days prior to dining. I also highly recommend the drinks pairing which is great value.

    Wakagiri

    Top 3 restaurants - udon tempura sushi

    One of the few restaurants to serve sushi and sashimi as well as the usual staples. Great variety with something for everyone. Opening times are extremely unreliable for lunch. I prefer it for lunch but recommend booking for dinner purely so you can have a confirmed meal. Dinner reservations open one week in advance from 8am. Phone bookings recommended but you can also send an email.

    So there you have my Top 3 restaurants in Nozawa Onsen. I do hope you can try them all!

    Honorable Mentions Not in the Top 3 Unmissable Restaurants

    Not in the Top 3 but still so many great restaurants it seems rude not to mention a few more. In no particular order –

    Tanuki Teppanyaki

    On the expensive side. Set dinner with a fun atmosphere especially if you have a group and book all 14 seats. Great view looking into the village.

    The Corner Steakhouse

    If you are craving western food or just want a steak or burger. They also have a huge portion of chicken nuggets (15!) if the kids need appeasing which is a good takeaway option.

    Akebitei Okonomiyaki

    Cheap and cheerful okonomiyaki run by two old dears. But you need to start queuing 15 minutes before opening to be guaranteed a seat in the first sitting. Opens at 6pm (sometimes 5.30pm). No reservations, no takeaway and cash only.

    Winterland Taproom & Gyoza Bar

    Specialising in gyoza. Fun vibe and good beers.

    Billiken

    Hearty lunches and very reasonably priced. Can sometimes do takeaway pizza if not super busy. Often full but there is a cheeky single seat at the window if you’re on your own.

    Tsukushinbo

    Cute izakaya, great vibe in the heart of the village. Must book.

    Gochisou Pizza

    Fun vibe. Interesting pizza toppings. Can usually fit big groups without requiring reservation too far in advance.

    Wagyutei

    Sukiyaki and shabu shabu. Yummy and hearty dinner. They’re not very flexible on their sets and insist on ordering a set per person but the meal is good. They can also cater to bigger groups.

    Yoshimi

    The best tempura and soba including a delicious udon soup served in a crock pot. Horse meat for those interested !šŸ˜¶

    Usually can walk in early but best to pop in and book a day or two in advance.

    For more detailed reviews you can also see some of my previous reviews on tripadvisor.

    Thanks for reading and happy eating!

    Shareen

    travelwith3bubs

    Ā© 2025. All content and photographs copyright (c) 2025 travelwith3bubs. All rights reserved.

  • Nozawa Onsen – The Best Japanese Ski Resort

    Nozawa Onsen – The Best Japanese Ski Resort

    Nozawa Onsen – the best Japanese Ski Resort and the worst Best Kept Secret

    Nozawa Onsen is a bit like Fight Club. Everyone who has been to Nozawa Onsen does not want to tell anyone else about Nozawa Onsen. Indeed any Instagram and TikTok posts are met with disdain, anger and abuse. But it’s too late. The cat is most definitely out of the bag.

    About Nozawa Onsen

    Nozawa Onsen is a quaint beautiful village in Nagano prefecture. It only requires a bullet train from Tokyo (under 2 hours). A short bus or taxi ride (20 minutes) will then take you to the village.

    shinkansen nozawa onsen

    The ski resort recently celebrated it’s 100 year anniversary. Foreigners have been going the last twenty years or so. But it has only been the last few years that it has become THE place to be.

    Nozawa Onsen - sledding

    Many newcomers are Niseko converts. Niseko is the upmarket resort in the North famous for its great powder but long queues and fully booked restaurants. Unlike Niseko which requires a flight to Hokkaido, Nozawa Onsen is accessible from Tokyo which offers many more flight options. It is also great to have the chance to spend days either side, exploring everything Tokyo has to offer. But that’s another blog entirely.

    The Famous Nozawa Onsens

    Nozawa Onsen is also famous for its public onsens (hot baths) dotted around the village. These waters are known for their medicinal properties but are not for the fainthearted. Coming to grips with the rules of Onsen etiquette is important. Getting used to being fully nude and managing the almost boiling temperatures are all part of the experience.

    Important Tips

    Accommodation

    There are a range of accommodations but if you do decide to go, do not leave it too late. Most returners tend to book a year in advance. Once they come off the slopes on their last day of skiing they sign up for the following year!

    Restaurants

    Now that Nozawa Onsen is more popular than ever, it is also worth booking some restaurants ahead of time. For the most part this only needs to be a few days or weeks rather than months. See my blog on 3 Unmissable Restaurants You Must Try in Nozawa Onsen. This also highlights the restaurants you must book early.

    Lunches are all walk in so you just need to queue. Best tip is to get there when they first open or slightly earlier. Most people do not linger over lunch so the wait times are not long.

    Nightlife in Nozawa

    Nightlife is very tame – think Whistler, but the opposite.

    There are a few bars but not a lot of rowdy yahooing. There is still enough for the younger crowd to enjoy great nights out after a long day on the slopes.

    Nozawa Onsen for Non Skiers

    For those who don’t ski there is enough to do for a week. One can visit the snow monkeys, go snow walking, take cooking classes and enjoy the village. There are yoga classes, a climbing wall and of course all the onsens to explore.

    snow monkeys

    Our family love Nozawa Onsen for its gorgeous village feel, hearty food offerings and fantastic skiing amongst a beautiful backdrop.

    I highly recommend a visit for your next ski holiday – despite the backlash I will receive!

    For more detailed information about the village.

    Thanks for reading and happy skiing.

    Shareen

    travelwith3bubs

    Ā© 2025. All rights reserved.

  • The Great Migration – Safaris don’t get better than this

    The Great Migration – Safaris don’t get better than this

    Safaris are awesome. In Botswana I have taken a dugout canoe through the Okavango Delta and camped in tents in Chobe National Park. In South Africa I have stayed in luxury lodges in the Kruger National Park. And in India I have seen tigers in Ranthambore National Park. BUT, if I was to choose only one destination for a safari it would hands down be Tanzania. Specifically – the Mara River in the Serengeti to witness the Great Migration.

    Taking oneself let alone one’s family on an African safari is indeed a huge financial undertaking. Witnessing the Great Migration is an absolute bucket list item. So if the opportunity presents itself I would say do it!

    Many people go on safari with young children. I personally would wait until they around 11 years old to really appreciate the incredible journey.

    Getting There – not so direct to witness the Great Migration

    A safari in Tanzania requires several stops on very small planes. It is not for the fainthearted or indeed the very tall traveller! Coming home our journey involved six stops – Lamai, Fort Ikoma, Seronera, Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Doha and finally Hong Kong. So direct it is not!

    Packing is also more challenging. Everything should be in duffle bags and there are strict weight restrictions. There is no space for big suitcases in the plane storage. For further tips on packing refer to my post Challenge : 3 weeks, 3 kids with just carry on?

    Small plane to safari camp

    Accommodations range from luxury lodges to tented camps. Whatever your budget it will still seem like a huge chunk of change. But try not to linger on that thought (like we did all during the lead up). Once you are there you will feel it is money completely well spent.

    Safari tent

    The Great Migration – What you see

    Most safaris I experienced before Tanzania involved prides of lion sleeping under trees or stunning leopards sleeping on tree branches. Amazing yes. But in terms of action, not so much.

    Fast forward to the Great Migration. From the moment we stepped off our tiny plane and into our fully open jeep the adventure began.

    Just the journey from the airstrip to our campsite we witnessed a plethora of activity. Wildebeest and zebra deciding whether to cross the river. Lions awaiting their decision, while hyenas and vultures lurked in hope of catching some scraps.

    Cheetahs, three brothers in fact, on a team hunt hoping to nab a gazelle. Meanwhile giraffes and pairs of ostrich popped out of bushes to cross our path.

    Herds of elephants drinking at water holes surrounded by stunning birds and inquisitive otters.

    It was all too much!

    Safari elephants

    The Great Migration – what is it

    Although the movement of animals occurs throughout the year it is generally divided into several key periods. July and August are the peak viewing season as the herds cross into Kenya’s Maasai Mara. The incredible river crossings are the most dramatic scenes I have ever witnessed.

    Great Migration wildebeest safari

    After our first day my middle son exclaimed “The Serengeti is Brutal!”. He was not wrong.

    Getting the timing right is of course up to mother nature. We were incredibly lucky that the river crossings only started the day we arrived. That was mid July. If you do not get the timing spot on do not despair. Although that experience was truly mind blowing, there is still an abundance of action.

    I would highly recommend working with safari specialists to point you in the right direction both accommodation and timing wise. This is the company we used and they were brilliant.

    Safari – The Joy of Being in Nature

    Cheetah - Great Migration, Serengeti, Tanzania

    What I love about holidays like this is that you are outdoors for most of the day surrounded by nature. Many accommodations do not have wifi so everyone is forced to have a digital detox. In the evenings we played board games or gathered around the fire to discuss our sightings with other guests.

    From my experiences thus far, a safari is the very best holiday one could ever hope to do. Seeing animals roaming freely in their habitat is incredibly special. Sharing that experience as a family was a once in a lifetime trip that we will forever remember.

    Thanks for reading.

    Shareen

    travelwith3bubs

    Ā© 2025. All content and photographs copyright (c) 2025 travelwith3bubs. All rights reserved.

  • Carry On Challenge : It’s a Game Changer

    Carry On Challenge : It’s a Game Changer

    Carry On Challenge – 3 weeks,3 kids


    A couple of summers ago our family of five spent 3 weeks holidaying in Europe. A week on the Greek island of Kythera, followed by a week cruising and a week in Arezzo, Italy.Ā  My one rule – all family members were only allowed to take carry on luggage!

    Surely one needs more than carry on you say?! The boys did not mind so much. Our 17 year old daughter needed more convincingā€¦

    Losing luggage in Europe during the height of summer seemed very high so I didnā€™t want to risk it. It was absolutely the right call. Had we not done so we would have spent the entire cruise with the clothes on our back! 

    Flying from Kythera to Athens most checked in luggage, for reasons unknown, did not make it on the plane. Passengers waited hours at the conveyor belt for their luggage only to find out they had not left the island!

    With only one flight per day, luggage would not be received until the arrival of the flight the next day. In our case, we were going straight on a cruise ship the next morning. Any luggage would not have been returned until we got back to Athens after the cruise!

    After finding out about that incident, our teenage daughter was convinced – Carry On Only was a brilliant idea!

    Top 3 Essentials for Carry On Only

    1. Packing Method

    To follow the Carry On Only policy one needs to implement the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method. I originally read about this on a home and lifestyle website.


    The 5-4-3-2-1 packing method involves variations around – 

    • 5 tops
    • 4 bottoms
    • 3 dresses/jumpsuits and 3 shoes
    • 2 swimming togs and 2 bags
    • 1 accessory (hat, scarf, sunglasses)

    This packing method has been invaluable and by keeping to matching combinations it is not difficult. For the most part we looked fairly decent. The uber cool waitstaff at the Dolce and Gabbana Martini restaurant in Milan would probably say otherwise!

    Our outfits in holiday snaps are same/samey but hey, are you a tourist or in a fashion show! (Actually in Milan it was probably the latter!)

    There can be lots of variations to the 5-4-3-2-1 method. Our daughter had about 15 tops but teenage girls tops and indeed all their clothing items seem to be minimal. They didnā€™t take up much extra space! 

    As a base template this method will massively cut down on your packing. Of course using packing cubes are also a must.

    I have also tried this for winter destinations, swapping out dresses and swimsuits for jackets and thermals. It is much harder to squeeze ski gear in carry on but usually I will wear or hold bulkier items.Ā We also followed this method when we went on safari although all items were khaki in colour!

    5-4-3-2-1 packing
    Deciding what to include for the kids in the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method!

     

    2. Transfer Liquids

    The biggest effort with Carry On Only is what to do about liquids. I suggest ordering a range of 50ml and 100ml travel bottles to transfer moisturisers, cleansers and hair products. Note – stricter airports only allow a 1 litre in one see-through bag.  If you are happy to use any products then you can always buy supplies when you arrive at your destination. 

    Liquids for Carry On

     Transfer all liquids into 100ml containers

    3. Get on board early – carry on needs overhead space

    Another challenge when travelling with Carry On Only is finding enough overhead locker space. Nowadays people seem to bring all sorts of items of varying shapes and sizes and it fills up super quick.

    It is not unusual to have your cabin bag in an overhead locker nowhere near your seat. This makes it easier for opportunistic thieves to take something from yours while pretending to open theirs! To avoid this, queue up at the gate early so you can ā€œbagsā€ the lockers above your seat. Don’t worry if you look like a keen bean! 

    I highly recommend you give Carry On Only a try. It is such a win to walk off the plane, go through immigration and then straight out the door. A wonderful head start to your holiday!

    Thanks for reading and I do hope you give it a try!

    Shareen

    Carry On luggage

    All packed and ready to go! Carry On Only for 3 weeks in Europe for a family of 5!

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