Think packing for a family holiday is stressful? Try doing it with three kids and carry-on luggage only.

Returning guest Bianca from Travel With My 3 Kids is back on Snacks and Suitcases. After sharing her Bali expertise in her first appearance, this time she's revealing the packing hacks, travel tips and mindset shifts that make family travel easier.

We chat about the reality of travelling with kids, why carry-on only can actually reduce stress, and the items Bianca never leaves home without.

Plus, we catch up on the latest from Bali, including the island's waste challenges and how travellers can make a positive difference.

In this episode:

• Why Bianca chooses carry-on only for a family of five
• The packing hacks that save time, money and sanity
• What she never packs anymore
• How to entertain toddlers and kids on flights
• Flying with babies, toddlers and neurodivergent children
• The travel gear she actually recommends
• The surprising item she always packs for hotel rooms
• Bali's waste crisis and what tourists need to know
• Airport transfer tips that make family travel easier
• Budget travel strategies for families
• Why low expectations can make travel more enjoyable

Follow Bianca at https://www.travelwithmy3kids.com/

https://www.instagram.com/travel.with.my.3.kids/

Chapters

00:00 Packing for Family Travel: The Challenge

02:59 Traveling with Kids: Real-Life Experiences

05:50 Bali's Waste Crisis: A Tourist's Responsibility

09:10 First Flights with Kids: The Reality

11:56 Surviving Long Flights: Tips and Tricks

15:02 The Art of Carry-On Only Packing

18:01 Non-Negotiables for Family Travel

20:56 Entertainment Strategies for Kids on Flights

24:08 Adapting to Travel with Young Children

31:30 Engaging Kids During Travel

36:39 Managing Expectations on Travel Days

37:26 Health and Safety Essentials for Kids

40:08 Packing Strategies for Family Travel

46:09 Handling Airport Challenges

51:21 Travel Hacks for Parents

57:33 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions via

• @snacksandsuitcasespodcast
• @sallynanamis
• Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page
• Email: [email protected] 

If you’re loving the show, make sure you’re following so you never miss an episode especially if you’ve got a family trip or road trip coming up.

AND... Don't forget the snacks. 

What is it really like raising kids in India?

After sharing her flying-with-babies tips in a previous episode, listener favourite Rachel McCallum is back to give us a fascinating glimpse into her family's life as expats in Chennai, India.

Rachel, her British wife Gemma and their two boys have spent the past eight years living in one of the world's most colourful, chaotic and captivating countries. From navigating culture shocks and organised traffic chaos to raising children in a multilingual, multicultural community, Rachel shares the realities of everyday family life in India.

We chat about what surprised her most when she first arrived, why India often gets an unfair reputation, and how her boys are growing up surrounded by languages, cultures and friendships from all over the world.

Thinking of visiting India with kids? Rachel also shares some of her favourite family-friendly destinations, including the iconic Taj Mahal and Kerala's famous houseboats. Plus, we talk food, festivals, school life, expat perks and the unique experiences that make India unlike anywhere else on Earth.

In this episode we cover:

• What it's really like living as an expat family in Chennai
• Culture shocks and misconceptions about India
• Raising kids in a multilingual and multicultural community
• Family-friendly destinations in India
• Visiting the Taj Mahal with children
• Kerala houseboats and why everyone loves Kerala
• Indian food, festivals and local traditions
• International schools and expat life
• Why kids are so celebrated in Indian culture
• The realities of travelling India as a family

Whether you're considering an overseas teaching position, planning a family trip to India or simply curious about expat life abroad, this episode offers a fascinating insider perspective on one of the world's most unforgettable destinations.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Expat Life in India

01:59 Cultural Insights and Realities of Chennai

04:21 Family Life and Kid-Friendly Activities

06:32 Health and Safety Concerns

09:51 Navigating the Medical System

11:20 The Role of Domestic Help

15:12 Raising a Family as a Same-Sex Couple

16:12 Multilingual Kids and Cultural Exposure

18:37 Education System in India

20:08 Identity and Cultural Integration

25:00 Traveling in India with Kids

26:46 Exploring the Taj Mahal: A Family Experience

29:15 Traveling in India: Tips for Families

32:49 Must-Visit Destinations in India

34:40 Cultural Experiences: Markets and Street Food

38:28 Understanding India's Diverse Festivals

42:10 School Lunches and Dietary Considerations in India

48:23 Navigating Allergies and Food Options in India

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions via

• @snacksandsuitcasespodcast
• @sallynanamis
• Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page
• Email: [email protected] 

If you’re loving the show, make sure you’re following so you never miss an episode especially if you’ve got a family trip or road trip coming up.

AND... Don't forget the snacks. 

What is it really like to pack up your life, pull the kids out of school and spend a year caravanning around Australia?

This week on Snacks and Suitcases, Sally Stanton welcomes back Big Lapper and now author Simone Skinner-Smith to chat about her brand new book, Passenger Princess: Underprepared and Overcaffeinated for the Big Lap.

Last time Simone joined the podcast, her family were still on the road travelling Australia in a caravan with two young boys. Now she’s back home in Sydney, reflecting on the adventure that changed her family forever.

In this funny, heartfelt and honest conversation, Sally and Simone chat about:

• the reality of van life and caravanning around Australia with kids
• coming home after a year on the road
• family travel challenges and unexpected moments
• the emotional side of the Big Lap
• unforgettable characters they met around Australia
• parenting, resilience and raising adventurous kids
• caravan park life, road trip hacks and travel tips
• self-publishing a book
• why social media only shows half the story

Simone also shares:

• her favourite destinations around Australia
• the truth about living in a caravan full-time
• funny travel disasters
• Big Lap packing mistakes
• caravan park hacks
• family travel advice for parents dreaming of doing a lap around Australia

Plus, Simone’s son Louis joins the conversation to answer the Kid’s Corner questions!

This episode also includes a short discussion relating to mental health and the Blue Tree Project in Australia. Please take care while listening with young children.  (at approx 23.26 mark) and open your heart and mind to those needing an old fashioned chat 💙

LINKS

Follow Simone: @biglappers or @simoneskinnersmith
Book: Passenger Princess: Underprepared and Overcaffeinated for the Big Lap available on Amazon and Kindle.

https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/1923680129

Big Lap: Family Road Trip Around Australia (first episode full of tips)

 https://pod.link/1819621151/episode/c2FsbHlzdGFudG9uLnBvZGJlYW4uY29tLzE4ZjdiZDkzLTg4NWEtM2I3NS1iZTIyLWU1MTIzZjFmYTg3ZA

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions via

• @snacksandsuitcasespodcast
• @sallynanamis
• Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page
• Email: [email protected] 

If you’re loving the show, make sure you’re following so you never miss an episode especially if you’ve got a family trip or road trip coming up.

And if this episode made you smile, share it with another parent who may need that gentle nudge to set off on a big lap. Because if not now, then when?

AND... Don't forget the snacks. 

Hosted by Sally Stanton.

This week on Snacks and Suitcases, Sally is popping into your feed with a quick little update while the podcast takes a short mid-season breather. But no worries as she’ll be back next week with a brand new episode!

In the meantime, now’s the perfect chance to catch up on any episodes you may have missed…. like road trips around New Zealand, All Inclusive Travel, Cruising with Kids plus loads more family travel ideas and tips.

Thanks so much for all your support of Snacks and Suitcases.

Follow @snacksandsuitcasespodcast for more family travel inspiration, travel hacks and destination ideas for parents travelling with kids.

Hosted by Sally Stanton.

Click for more episodes

Snacks and Suitcases will be back very soon with more family travel tips, travelling with kids advice and celebrity travel stories.

In this quick update episode, Sally Stanton shares some of the best episodes to binge while the podcast is on pause, including chats with Hamish Blake, Ada Nicodemou, Emma Watkins (Emma Memma), Sophie Falkiner and Luke Jacobz.

Planning a family holiday? Catch up on popular episodes covering Japan with kids, Bali with kids, snow holidays in Australia, Japan ski resorts, Livigno in Italy, eco-friendly tiny cabin escapes and more.

Plus, Sally teases an upcoming episode with Simone Skinner-Smith, returning to the podcast to chat about her new travel memoir Passenger Princess: Underprepared and Over Caffeinated for the big lap, inspired by her family’s caravan trip around Australia.

Whether you’re dreaming of a big lap around Australia, a white Christmas ski holiday or your next family getaway, there’s plenty to inspire your next adventure.

Follow Snacks and Suitcases for more family travel inspiration, travel hacks and destination ideas for parents travelling with kids.

Beauty editor, podcast host and founder of Beauticate, Sigourney Cantelo joins Sally for a candid chat about luxury travel, travelling with kids, burnout, beauty on the go and rebuilding life after a mental health crisis.

From interviewing celebrities around the world and launching one of Australia’s first beauty and wellness websites, to navigating motherhood, anxiety and family holidays with two kids, Sigourney shares the highs, challenges and lessons she’s learned along the way.

They chat about Japan ski trips, Ibiza with babies, wellness retreats, favourite family-friendly luxury hotels, beauty travel essentials and why nature based travel has become so important to her wellbeing.

Plus, Sigourney shares her (and her kid’s) favourite destinations, funniest travel mishaps and of course, the beauty products she never travels without.

In this episode:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Travel with Kids

01:08 Sigourney's Journey in Beauty and Wellness

07:14 Building BeautiKate and the Podcast

10:17 The Evolution of Luxury in Travel

13:48 Traveling Before Kids

17:01 Traveling with Kids: The First Experiences

20:10 The Challenges of Traveling with Young Children

24:45 The Reality of Family Travel

27:11 Exploring Local Destinations

29:15 Beauty Routines on the Go

30:41 The Power of Lanolin and Travel Essentials

37:05 Navigating Mental Health and Parenting

43:52 Embracing Nature and Family Life

45:10 Traveling with Kids: Experiences and Preferences

52:35 Beauty Essentials for Travel

54:41 Kids Corner: Travel Stories and Snacks

56:05 Fast Five: Quick Travel Preferences

Resources

https://www.instagram.com/sigourneycantelo/

https://www.instagram.com/beauticate/

Beauticate

Beautiful Inside

South Pacific Private - South Pacific Private

Gwinganna Health Retreat - https://gwinganna.com/

Eden Health Retreat - https://eden.com.au/

Alba - https://albathermalsprings.com.au/

The Langham Gold Coast - https://www.langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/gold-coast/

JW Marriot Gold Coast - https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/oolsp-jw-marriott-gold-coast-resort-and-spa/overview/

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions via

If you’re loving the show, make sure you’re following so you never miss an episode especially if you’ve got a family trip or road trip coming up.

And if this episode made you smile, share it with another parent whose idea of luxury has taken on a different meaning at this stage of life. Or… they just love a bit of good ole’ mum chat!

AND... Don't forget the snacks.

Planning a Bali holiday with kids? This episode of Snacks and Suitcases is packed with tips to help make your family trip smooth, fun and stress free.

Host Sally Stanton chats with Bianca from the Instagram page and blog Travel With My 3 Kids, a mum of three who knows exactly how to navigate Bali with a family in tow.

From where to stay in Bali with kids to what it’s really like on the ground, this episode is full of real, relatable advice for parents.

Bianca shares her experience travelling with three kids under 7 and what it’s like exploring Bali as a family, including the unexpected moments that come with travelling with kids.

There’s also a personal side to this chat, as Bianca opens up about how her own childhood travel experiences shaped the way she travels with her kids today, and the story behind how she started her Instagram page and blog, Travel With My 3 Kids.

And for anyone worried about Bali Belly, Sally admits she’s completely petrified, and Bianca steps in to reassure her with practical, no stress tips on how to avoid it and travel with confidence.

They also dive into:

It’s a relaxed, honest and super helpful conversation for any parent planning a Bali family holiday or looking to travel more confidently with kids

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Travel with Kids

02:34 Bianca's Unique Childhood and Early Travels

09:01 Overcoming Challenges: Bianca's Cancer Journey

10:49 From Passion to Profession: Blogging and Instagram

14:28 Exploring Kid-Friendly Destinations

16:50 The Allure of Bali: A Family Favorite

22:56 Navigating Food Safety and Health Concerns

27:53 Traveling Logistics: Tips for Families

29:04 Navigating Bali's Transportation

32:32 Exploring Bali: Affordable Luxury and Family-Friendly Options

35:33 Best Areas for Families in Bali

38:40 Must-Do Experiences with Kids in Bali

42:51 Family-Friendly Dining and Cultural Experiences

44:39 Kids Corner: Fun Questions and Unique Experiences

49:09 Fast Five: Quick Travel Tips and Insights

Resources

Instagram: @travel.with.my.3.kids/

Blog  Travel with my 3 Kids

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions via

If you’re loving the show, make sure you’re following so you never miss an episode especially if you’ve got a family trip or road trip coming up.

And if this episode made you smile, share it with another parent who’s dreaming beautiful Bali!

AND... Don't forget the snacks.

This bite-sized bonus episode of Snacks and Suitcases sees Sally Stanton sharing her honest review of an eco luxe tiny house stay with Into the Wild Escapes.

After her main episode, Sally dives deeper into what it’s really like travelling with kids to a tiny house. Joined by her daughter Piper, she shares what worked, what surprised them and why this screen free escape was such a hit.

Set in Laguna in the Lower Hunter Valley, just 90 minutes from Sydney, this family getaway was all about outdoor adventure, from bike riding and kangaroo spotting to campfire cooking and stargazing.

Sally also shares practical tips on what to pack, what to leave at home and why less really is more on a tiny house holiday.

If you’re considering a family friendly, eco travel experience in Australia, this episode will help you decide if a tiny house stay is right for you.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Tiny House Escape

01:01 Exploring the Tiny House Experience

04:54 Art and Culture in Wallamby

06:02 Animal Encounters at the Sanctuary

08:06 Family Dynamics in a Tiny Space

10:32 Lessons from the Tiny House Stay

13:49 Conclusion and Reflections on the Experience

Resources

Into The Wild Escapes

@in2thewildaus

Dried Flower Creations

@driedflowercreations

Wollombi General Store / Art collective

Trading Post Laguna

Where Pigs Fly Sanctuary

@wherepigsflysanctuary 

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions via

If you’re loving the show, make sure you’re following so you never miss an episode especially if you’ve got a family trip or road trip coming up.

And if this episode made you smile, share it with another parent who’s dreaming of switching off and going green (with a little luxury) for their next family holiday.

AND... Don't forget the S’mores! And Mulled Wine!

If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping the city with the kids, slowing right down and reconnecting in nature but without giving up your creature comforts… this episode is for you.

On this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, Sally Stanton is joined by Renee Kidd from Into The Wild Escapes to explore the rise of eco luxe tiny homes in Australia and why they are becoming one of the most popular trends in family travel.

Sally and Renee dive into what makes these off-grid escapes so special. With no WiFi and limited phone reception, families are encouraged to properly switch off.

These eco-friendly tiny homes are all about sustainable travel without sacrificing comfort. Set in stunning natural locations, they offer cosy accommodation with a touch of luxury. Comfy big beds, hot showers, thoughtful design and beautiful surroundings, proving that eco travel does not mean roughing it.

Renee shares the story behind Into The Wild Escapes and why more families are choosing screen-free, nature-based holidays to reconnect and reset. The episode is packed with practical insights for parents looking for unique, meaningful travel experiences with kids.

At the end of the episode, Sally shares her own mini review after staying in one of the tiny homes with her family. From first impressions to what surprised her most, it is an honest look at what families can expect.

Plus, there is a bonus episode coming, where Sally goes deeper into her personal experience and shares extra tips for planning your own eco luxe tiny home getaway.

If you are searching for family travel ideas, eco travel inspiration, outdoor holidays with kids or unique places to stay in Australia, this episode delivers plenty of inspiration.

In this episode:

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Green Tourism

01:50 Exploring Luxury Eco Tiny Houses

03:33 Family-Friendly Features of Tiny Homes

08:09 The Off-Grid Experience

12:03 Connecting with Nature and Family

17:12 Stargazing and Nature's Beauty

20:12 Packing for Your Tiny Home Adventure

23:04 Preparing Kids for Screen-Free Fun

25:02 The Story Behind Tiny Home Names

26:14 International Appeal of Tiny Homes

27:45 Exploring Australian Wildlife Up Close

29:15 A Day in a Tiny House: Slow Travel Experience

33:44 Connecting with Nature: Exploring Local Communities

37:52 Unique Features of Tiny Homes

39:00 Kids Corner: Addressing Concerns About Tiny Homes

42:11 The Importance of Eco-Tourism

44:15 Why Every Family Should Experience Tiny House Living

Resources

Into The Wild Escapes

@in2thewildaus

Dried Flower Creations

@driedflowercreations

Wollombi General Store / Art collective

Trading Post Laguna

Where Pigs Fly Sanctuary

@wherepigsflysanctuary 

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions via

If you’re loving the show, make sure you’re following so you never miss an episode especially if you’ve got a family trip or road trip coming up.

And if this episode made you smile, share it with another parent who’s dreaming of switching off and going green (with a little luxury) for their next family holiday.

AND... Don't forget the S’mores! And Mulled Wine!

This bonus episode of Snacks and Suitcases dives into a powerful part of my chat with Emma Watkins that deserved its own moment.

We explore how Emma weaves sign language into her Emma Memma shows, and how deaf and hard of hearing children experience music through movement, rhythm and visual storytelling.

From her early exposure to Auslan, to performing globally with different sign languages, and working alongside her profoundly deaf co-performer Elvin — this is a fascinating, feel-good listen.

If you’re curious about inclusive performance, or want to understand how music can connect in different ways, this one’s for you.

🎧 Catch the full episode with Emma for travel, touring life and behind-the-scenes stories.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Emma Watkins and Sign Language Integration

Resources

Emma Memma

Emma Memma Jungle Picnic Tour

Ability Fest

Deaf West Theatre

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions via

If you’re loving the show, make sure you’re following so you never miss an episode  especially if you’ve got a family trip or road trip coming up.

And if this episode made you smile, share it with another parent who’s travelling with kids (or whose kids are obsessed with Emma Memma!).

AND... Don't forget your snacks!