Memories for Miles

It’s been a while since I last posted, and to be honest, it’s mostly because we haven’t been up to much! Usually, families are all about hitting the beach and going on trips during summer break, and I totally get that—it’s when most families can actually take some time off from work and school. But for us, things are a bit different. With my husband working on a paving crew, summer is his busy season. However, we do manage to take some breaks (like a few quick weekends and some longer holiday escapes)- which are so important for us!

In a world that moves faster every day (especially as our kiddos are getting older), it’s easy to slip into autopilot. We share the same space, but it’s not always the same moments. That’s why family travel isn’t always about the destinations or the length of the trips- its about rediscovering each other along the way.

Here are 4 reasons as to why I believe travel is so important:

1. Travel allows you to escape the routine and reconnect.
When families travel together, something special happens. There’s truly nothing like stepping away from the daily routine to connect with the ones we cherish most. There are no emails, no practices, no stress—just time. Real, uninterrupted time. With the kids engaged in various sports and activities, it can feel like we’re merely ships passing in the night, constantly on the go. A bit of travel breaks that cycle, providing our family with the precious time needed to rediscover the simple joys of life.

2. The joy and wonder– for parents, too.
When I think back to my childhood, the best memories are totally from our family trips, and I’d love to recreate some of those moments for my own kids. Each trip is like a little chapter in our story — from those chill cabin weekends to their first flight out west — and oh man, seeing their faces when they first laid eyes on Arches National Park or the crystal-clear water in the Bahamas was priceless! The waterfall they see on a hike feels magical, a local bakery becomes an adventure, and even a 2am stop for gas becomes a memory we talk about for years.

3. Showing kids a bigger world.
Travel teaches curiosity, empathy, and so much more. When kids see different landscapes, cultures, and ways of life- they gain a deeper understanding of the world beyond our small town bubble. The world is so big, so diverse, and so full of wonder. Travel experiences build gratitude, confidence, and adaptability — lessons that last far beyond the vacation.

4. Memories outlast things.
Years from now, my kids won’t remember the toys or the gadgets (at least I don’t really remember anything like that from my own childhood!) They’ll remember the campfires, the road trip adventures, the hikes, and more. Family travel is an investment in their joy, connection and perspective- and those things will never lose value (something to consider as we approach Christmas this year!)

Make the impossible possible with smart planning.

Travel might seem like a luxury and something that seems out of reach for a lot of families—and as a mom of five kiddos—I get it! However, using tools like credit card reward points and travel deals really helps to make those goals attainable. By using the right reward cards for everyday expenses—groceries, gas, streaming subscriptions, or Christmas shopping—families can earn points to then cover the expenses of their next Airbnb, hotel, flight, rental car, and more. A single welcome bonus can sometimes cover airfare for a family of four or a few nights at a family-friendly resort.

Think of it this way; every purchase you’re already making can help build your next adventure. And the payoff isn’t just financial – it’s emotional. It’s knowing that with a little strategy, you made those priceless family moments happen.

At the end of the day, the true reward isn’t just the flight upgrade or the free hotel night—it’s the memories and the time together. It’s the laughter that filled the car, the sand between your toes, and the shared feeling of awe when you experience something new together.

Family travel reminds us that connection is the real luxury. Points and miles just make it easier to get there.

So start planning that next adventure—big or small. Use your points, your creativity, and your sense of wonder. Because the world is waiting, and the best stories are the ones you write together.

Visit our favorite products and links page to get started today!