Ready Set Depart

Holiday air travel can feel like a lot, especially with unpredictable weather, crowded airports, and delays popping up left and right. In this episode, I’m sharing 15 practical tips to help your family fly with a little less stress this season. We’ll talk about everything from choosing the right flight times to packing smarter, using TSA PreCheck, managing cancellations, and keeping kids happy when travel days run long. You’ll also hear simple tricks that make a difference, like monitoring your incoming aircraft and planning for the extra stuff you’ll bring home after the holidays. If you’re hoping for smoother departures, fewer surprises, and a more relaxed trip with your family, this episode is for you.

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Looking for the perfect winter getaway with your family? In this episode, we’re taking you to Leavenworth, Washington, one of the most magical Christmas towns in the country. Just two hours from Seattle, this Bavarian-style mountain village turns into a snowy wonderland filled with twinkling lights, cozy treats, and plenty of kid-approved fun.

We’re sharing everything you need to know for a winter trip to Leavenworth: how to get there (including the train to Icicle Station), what the weather really feels like, how to pack for teens-and-twenties temps, and why staying downtown makes the whole trip easier. You’ll hear Trooper’s take on the sledding hill, our favorite places to eat, must-see spots like the Reindeer Farm, and all the winter activities that make this little town such a hit with families.

If Leavenworth has been on your list, or if you’re just dreaming of a snowy escape, this episode will help you plan a trip full of simple, memorable moments.

Let’s keep making traveling with your family easier, one trip at a time.

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Looking for the perfect gifts for travelers? In this episode of Ready Set Depart, we’re sharing our favorite cozy, clever, and carry-on ready gift ideas for family travelers of all kinds—from road trippers and National Park lovers to parents flying with kids. Whether you’re shopping for a holiday, birthday, or just because, this thoughtful traveler’s gift guide has something useful and fun for everyone on your list. And the best part? We’ve put together a full linked gift guide at readysetdepart.com so you can easily find everything mentioned in this episode—no note-taking required.

Tune in and discover gifts that travelers will actually use (and love), and make your next shopping trip a breeze.

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Packing for a family trip doesn’t have to feel overwhelming! In this episode of Ready Set Depart, I’m sharing my best family travel packing tips, from how to use packing cubes effectively to the simple ziplock bag hack for kids’ outfits that saves time and fights off the morning chaos. You’ll also hear my favorite advice for flying with babies and toddlers, like why you should always pack extra diapers, keep a change of clothes for everyone, and what to stash in your carry-on essentials. We’ll cover everything from road trip luggage vs. airline luggage, when to choose duffle bags or hard-sided suitcases, and how to leave room for souvenirs. Whether you’re preparing for your next family vacation, a quick weekend getaway, or a long-haul adventure, this episode will help you pack smarter, stress less, and feel more confident on the road.

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Dreaming of a tropical getaway? In this episode of Ready Set Depart, we’re taking you to Oahu, Hawaii, the island most people picture when they think of paradise. From Waikiki’s calm waves and Friday night fireworks to hiking Diamond Head, snorkeling Hanauma Bay, and indulging in shave ice or Hula Pie, Oahu has something for every member of the family. We’ll also share fun trivia (including Hawaii’s tongue-twisting state fish), practical travel tips, and some of our favorite family memories from the island. Whether you love history, adventure, or just relaxing on the beach, Oahu is waiting to make your next family trip unforgettable.

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On this episode of Ready Set Depart, We’re taking you with us to Joshua Tree National Park—a place that surprised us so much, it became our family’s favorite. From funky desert towns to boulder climbing and sunrise at the Cholla Cactus Garden, Joshua Tree is weird, wonderful, and unlike anywhere else. We’ll share the hikes we loved, the animals we spotted, and the little moments that made this trip unforgettable. If you’ve ever wondered whether this desert park is worth the stop, we’ll show you why it absolutely is.

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In this episode of Ready Set Depart, I share how our family discovered that homeschooling and travel are the perfect pair. From flexible schedules to lessons that come alive in museums, parks, and historic sites, I explain how learning on the road sparks curiosity in ways a classroom can’t. You’ll also hear from Trooper, as he shares his own take on “roadschooling.” Whether you homeschool full-time or just want to add meaningful learning to your family vacations, this episode is packed with practical tips, honest stories, and encouragement to make travel part of your education journey.

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In this episode of Ready Set Depart, we explore the beauty, history, and family-friendly adventures of Mount Rainier National Park—affectionately known in the Pacific Northwest as The Mountain.

We dive into Rainier’s rich past, from its significance to Indigenous tribes and its designation as one of the first National Parks, to the mountaineers, loggers, and conservationists who helped protect it. Along the way, we share some of the most memorable experiences families can enjoy today, including:

• Iconic Views & Rustic Charm – Discover why Rainier’s snowy peak has captivated generations and how the Park’s unique “Rustic Style” buildings set the stage for National Park architecture.
  
  
  
• Family Hikes for Every Level – From the easy Trail of Shadows and Myrtle Falls walk to the trickier Narada Falls climb and the famous Wonderland Trail, there’s something for everyone.
  
  
  
• Junior & Citizen Ranger Programs – Fun and educational activities for kids (and adults!) to earn badges, patches, and learn about the Mountain’s natural wonders.
  
  
  
• Fishing & Wildlife Spotting – With free fishing inside the Park, playful marmots on the trails, and the chance to see everything from deer to mountain goats, outdoor adventures abound.
  
  
  
• Seasonal Highlights – Wildflowers in full summer bloom, cascading waterfalls, and even a ride on the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad.
  
  
  
• Travel Tips – How to avoid crowds, where to stay, and what essentials to pack for a smooth trip.
  
  
  

Whether you’re dreaming of a big hike, a scenic family walk, or just soaking up the views, Mount Rainier is a destination full of awe and adventure.

For photos, resources, and links mentioned in this episode, visit readysetdepart.com/18.

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Looking for a charming summer getaway that’s perfect for the whole family? In this episode of the Ready Set Depart podcast, we’re heading to Leavenworth, Washington—a Bavarian-themed village nestled in the Cascade Mountains, just a few hours from Seattle.

We’ll take you behind the scenes of Leavenworth’s unique transformation from a logging town to a must-visit tourist destination, and share all the best family-friendly things to do in Leavenworth during the summer.

Here’s what you’ll discover:

• Why the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm is a magical stop for animal lovers
• What makes the Leavenworth Summer Theater a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience (yes, they really perform The Sound of Music in the mountains!)
• How to ride Washington’s first alpine coaster at the Leavenworth Adventure Park
• The best hikes for all skill levels, including the scenic Old Pipeline Bed Trail
• Where to float the Wenatchee River or cool off in glacial-fed waters
• Can’t-miss eats—from authentic German food to family-friendly pizza joints
• Unique attractions like the Nutcracker Museum, fish hatchery, and minigolf
• Bonus day trip: Lake Wenatchee for boating, hiking, or relaxing on the beach
  
  

Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or just love discovering new places, this episode is packed with travel tips, personal stories, and plenty of reasons to add Leavenworth to your family’s bucket list.

Check out photos and our full list of Leavenworth travel tips at readysetdepart.com/17.

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**NOTE: Trooper just got a palette extender put in so that’s why you’ll hear a bit of a lisp today**

Traveling with pets? In this special episode, we welcome our very first guest—my sister-in-law Julie—who’s an experienced dog traveler and shares all her road trip wisdom! We compare notes on what it’s like to travel with dogs versus cats, from carriers and food stops to hotel stays and calming aids. You’ll meet Roca the rescue pup, Roger the giant cat, and hear what’s worked (and what hasn’t) on our pet-friendly adventures. Whether you’ve got a tail-wagger or a quiet kitty, this episode is full of real-life tips to make traveling with your furry family member less stressful and more fun.

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