How to rent a car in Europe: everything you need to know

If you’re planning a trip across Europe and wondering how to rent a car in Europe, you’re not alone. We’ve rented cars in Spain, the UK, and Turkiye, and each experience taught us something new about driving abroad, from navigating narrow roads to understanding local insurance rules.

Whether you’re planning a scenic drive through the Scottish Highlands or small-town hopping across southern Spain, here’s everything you need to know about renting a car in Europe.

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Essential tips for visiting the UK for the first time

We spent two and a half weeks in the UK this summer, driving from London to the Isle of Skye and exploring cities, villages, castles, and the countryside in between. This was our first time visiting the U.K. as a family, and it quickly became one of our favorite destinations in Europe.

If you’re planning your trip across the pond, here are my tips for visiting the U.K. for the first time, covering everything from new entry rules and mobile data to driving, weather, and family-friendly transport hacks.

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Tips for traveling to Spain for the first time

Traveling to Spain for the first time? You’re in for an unforgettable experience, from the vibrant energy of Madrid’s plazas to the dreamy Moorish palaces of Andalusia and the sun-soaked beaches of Costa Brava. But like any new country, Spain has its own rhythm, and knowing a few practical tips can make a huge difference in how smooth (and fun) your trip feels.

Here’s everything I wish I knew before visiting Spain for the first time, from how to stay online, handle money, navigate food culture, and book must-see sites before they sell out.

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Free things to do in London with kids

If you’re planning a trip to London, you’ll be glad to know there are so many free things to do in London with kids. From interactive museums to splash fountains, playgrounds, and even pelicans in the middle of the city, London makes it surprisingly easy to explore on a budget.

When we visited this summer, I was blown away by just how many free family activities in London, UK, kept my kids entertained without spending a pound.

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10 best things to do in Barcelona with kids

Planning a family trip to Barcelona, Spain? This vibrant city is rich in history, art, architecture, and offers a variety of kid-friendly activities. If you’re searching for the best things to do in Barcelona with kids, we’ve got you covered.

This April, we spent almost two weeks in Spain, starting with a road trip from Madrid to Andalusia, and finishing in Barcelona. From Gaudí’s masterpieces like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell to open plazas where kids can run free, Barcelona quickly became one of our favorite family destinations in Spain.

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Best family-friendly tours in Alaska

If you’re traveling to Alaska with kids and want to make the most of your time and money, this guide is for you. We visited Juneau, Seward, Anchorage, and Denali with our 2 daughters, and these are the best Alaska tours for families that we highly recommend.

Use this list to plan and book your Alaska family itinerary, whether you’re cruising, road tripping, or flying in for a summer adventure.

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Best things to do in Granada with kids: a family guide

Granada is one of those Spanish cities that feels both ancient and alive at the same time. It is home to grand palaces, narrow cobblestone streets, and flamenco echoing through cave homes. Tucked into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in southern Spain, Granada is rich in culture, history, and family-friendly experiences.

We spent a few days here on our Spain road trip with kids and loved how walkable and compact the city is. Here’s our full Granada with kids guide, where to stay, what to see, and the best things to do with children, from exploring the famous Alhambra to discovering Roma cave homes in Sacromonte.

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Best things to do in Hakone, Japan, with kids

Planning a Japan itinerary with kids? Do not skip Hakone. Just 90 minutes from Tokyo, this mountain town is known for hot springs and scenic views. Some of the best things to do in Hakone for families include pirate ship cruises, mountain trains, bubbling volcanic steam vents, and even glimpses of Mount Fuji.

Whether you’re visiting for the day or spending the night, Hakone offers a fun mix of nature, culture, and hands-on experiences that kids will love. In this post, we’re sharing exactly what to do in Hakone with kids, plus tips to make your trip smooth and memorable.

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10 Best Hotel Pools for Families in the U.S.

Looking for the best hotel pools for your family? Whether you’re chasing sunshine in Hawaii or planning a spring break trip to Florida, these family-friendly hotels deliver next-level pool days, with lazy rivers, splash pads, and waterslides that kids never forget.

We’ve stayed at many of these spots ourselves, and despite long flights or forgotten stuffies, these pools somehow made the trip “the best ever.” From luxury resorts in Maui to points-friendly hotels in Palm Springs and Texas, here are the top family resorts with epic pools that are actually worth the hype.

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10 best things to do in Madrid, Spain with kids

Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a beautiful mix of culture, history, and energy, with wide boulevards, majestic architecture, and a laid-back lifestyle that’s easy to enjoy as a family. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Madrid with kids, the city offers a perfect blend of hands-on museums, lively parks, royal landmarks, and sweet treats.

We spent three days exploring Madrid with our 10-year-old and 4-year-old and loved how walkable and welcoming it felt. From puppet shows in the park to chocolate-dipped churros, here are 10 kid-friendly activities in Madrid that combine fun, culture, and local flavor.

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