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Even if we had all the money in the world, we’d choose sleeping under the stars over a fancy four poster bed (at least that’s what I like to fool myself into believing 😬). But my goodness, a night in a Fairmont bed is always worth writing home about. So here it is.
We were fortunate to have a couple excellent family adventures at the Chateau Whistler last spring/summer. Before that, I was no stranger to the epic landmark (thanks to the good eats), situated at the base of Blackcomb mountain, in Whistler’s (quieter) Upper Village, a short stroll away from Whistler’s (busier) Main Village. We used to live in Whistler, and recently moved about an hour down the Sea to Sky highway to Horseshoe Bay, but it’s still our go-to for a quick and easy getaway. The Fairmont Chateau Whistler makes it something special, that’s for sure.
Daisy enjoying the complimentary apples and fragrant lilies in the hotel’s lobby
Aprés visits to The Mallard, their lux and cozy, couch filled lounge open to the hotel’s large main lobby, cannot be beat imo. We have also been making it an annual tradition to eat at The Wildflower‘s famous Mother’s Day Brunch since my daughter was just a wee bébé. Portebello has also been a staple in my pre-snowboarding regimen, to fuel my days up in the mountains.
Pleasantly pleased Daisy, in her element, riding up the Blackcomb village gondy
The hotel couldn’t be more convenient, situated right at the base of the Blackcomb Gondy. Thanks to its name, Blackcomb tends to be the lesser known of Whistler resort’s mountains, where the ratio of locals to visitors tends to be higher. It funnily happens to be the larger of the two mountains, has shorter lift lines, and is insanely fun. My best days on both mountains have hands down been on Blackcomb, off Seventh Heaven, and behind on the Blackcomb Glacier/Bowl. It basks in the afternoon sun, so is super cruisy to finish the day off on, before returning back to your evening’s cushy digs.
Suiting up for spring shreddin’ and Rendezvous hangouts
Tell me a better way to relax ye olde muscles after a long day on the slopes than in a hot tub, and I won’t believe you. The Fairmont’s Vida Spa and pools are worthy of a visit in themselves. Many locals have caught onto this and get monthly under the table/non-advertised passes in the winter to soothe and warm their weary woes.
I mean, matching family bathrobes?! C’mon, couldn’t get much cuter (and cozier)
A nice restorative yoga class after a long day could possibly tie with the hot tubs, in terms of rejuvenating bliss. To coincide with the spa, the Chateau offers top notch yoga classes, whether to limber you up to start your day, or to soothe said sore muscles at the end. If you’re lucky, you may time your visit with a sound bowl experience to revel in complete relaxation to soothe the soul.
They make things super simple and efficient with their slopeside ski valet and ski and snowboard rentals. Also slopeside, maple infused hot chocolate awaits to warm yourself in the afternoons, sittiing on their red adirondack chairs next to propane fire pits. Picturesque, and oh so quintessential.
Yummmy
If you haven’t thought of visiting Whistler in the summer, than get on it, as each summer the visitors increase, making no season an off-season. The world’s best mountain and downhill biking are at the Chateau’s doorstep. Hiking more your thing? Strap the hikers on and head up the Blackcomb Ascent Trail/Grind to get to the top, and take the gondola down to save your knees. If you’re a seasoned golfer, you’ve probably heard of the Fairmont Chateau Whistler’s namesake golf course.
Hiking up the Ascent Trail, stopping to smell the Daisy’s 🙂The summertime farmer’s market is a hoot as well!
Spring and Fall, also known as the ‘shoulder seasons’ are the quietest time to visit Whistler, where you can find sweet lodging and dining deals. The nostalgia and anticipation fall brings, with the cooler temps and first signs of snow, feels like magic. Some of the top restaurants in town offering $50 (or less $) a la carte 5 course meals/experiences.
We love eating local and getting a taste of what life is like wherever we visit by checking out the local markets. Right outside the hotel’s doors, you can find the Whistler Farmer’s market, filling up the village stroll with local art, goods and yummy eats, May to mid-October, on Sundays from 11am-4pm.
Farmer’s market strollin’
The Chateau also comes complete with it’s own tennis and pickleball courts. Also, tucked beyond the courts is the hotel’s own playground, encompassing a large fenced-in area for kids to run around, complete with a climbing play structure and swings. We found this incredibly convenient plus the kids adored going. It was entertaining for all of us, as we met families (and friends for the kids) from all over the world.
If all the perks, the brilliant Blackcomb location, the good food and amenities, weren’t reason enough, Fairmont is making steps towards a sustainable future. They are showing that they care about the environment, knowing that Whistler, and many of their hotel’s locations, are so popular due to being surrounded by incredible nature at their doorsteps. So let’s preserve that! And they’re trying, and also prompting guests to think about their own impact, when they travel and what they can learn and take home with them.
The friendly staff are also a fond memory for us. From checkin, to our room servicing crew, smiles were had all around. From delivering our bags to bringing the kids their own bathrobes, the service is top notch, making you feel welcomed, and truly feeling like it is a home away from home during your stay.
Roarrr
With all this said, the main reason to choose the Fairmont over all the rest… The bed! The crisp white linen, the cushy mattress, it is enrapturing, I sink into it, and could stay tucked in it all day, everyday (if it weren’t for the kids telling me they’re hungry). Open the curtains, I know I’m in Whistler, I can watch the sun cast its shadow over the mountains, all from the comfort of those stunning beds. The natural live edge wooden headboards. The room. The towels. The (reuseable and refillable) toiletries. All a bonus.
BeforeAfter – amidst the soft sea of pillows, excellent naps were had.
In summary, if you’re looking for a most excellent stay, warm cozy beds, good food, great amenities, and the best location, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler is your answer. We give it 4 sets of luxurious thumbs up!
Heads up: This guide contains affiliate links. If you buy through one, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — it helps keep our guides free. It never changes our picks or their order. Read our Gear Review Policy.
Traveling with kids is a special kind of madness. No matter how many times we do it and how prepared we may think we may be, something always goes wrong. We’ve been puked on when the seatbelt sign is on. Luggage has been lost, connections missed, and snacks forgotten.
But somehow, we always come back to do it again. Not because it’s easy, but because the experiences will leave lasting imprints on our kids (and us) to help form good character throughout life. One hack we’ve learned is to have a good travel bag. And after receiving and testing dozens of bags the past few years, we’ve found a few that really stand out.
Take a look at these bags and give them a try. We’re confident that there will be one to suit your need, whether the tiny and packable to the extra large and premium.
We are big fans of the No Reception Club bags, in all their different shapes and sizes.
Bottom line: If you need only one bag, the No Reception Club Hideaway Duffel is the premium piece of equipment that will keep you organized and build better packing habits.
How We Tested The Travel Bags
These bags have been taken on planes, trains and automobiles; to sandy beaches, and to cold mountain cabins. Since having kids we have spent most of our time at home in British Columbia, home to the coastal rainforest, west coast beaches, and the mountains of the Sea to Sky. We’re also fortunate enough to have friends in Hawaii that we house-sit for, so we go there at least once a year — sometimes two or three (with gratitude). So the bags we take along the way have been through pretty much every climate except arctic and desert.
Our Picks for the Best Family Travel Bags
Pick
Best for
Price (USD)
Capacity
No Reception Club Hideaway Duffel
Organization
$295
42L
Gregory Border Carry-On 40
Weekender carry-on
~$180–200
40L
Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 100L
Large hauls
~$225
100L
Matador ReFraction Packable Duffle
Packable day bag
~$55
25L
Specs verified July 2, 2026 against manufacturer pages. Prices vary by retailer and region — check before you buy.
Best Overall: No Reception Club Hideaway Duffel
Bottom line: Thoughtful design that made us better at packing. You learn how to be more organized just by using this bag.
Pros
✓ Organizing is a breeze
✓ Bag is durable
✓ Removable laundry sack keeps dirty clothes separate
Cons
✕ It’s pricey
At a glance
Price: $295 USD [VERIFY: CAD price — you listed $340 CAD; confirm on noreceptionclub.com]
You don’t get many mom-and-pop brands out there making game changing equipment these days, but that’s just what Gemma and and Daniel Ng have done with No Reception Club. As parents themselves, they were frustrated with what the current market offered for a diaper bag on the go. Several years later and their bags have been a huge success.
It started with the backpack-enabled Getaway bag, which made taking kids on the plane a whole lot more bearable and organized. Their latest offering, the Hideaway Duffel, expands on that success by offering more space for longer adventures.
Our favourite feature is the removable laundry bag that allows you to separate the filthy from the flawless. While the price is up there, the time saved is well worth it.
Gregory makes some excellent backpacks for overnight hikes, so I was curious to try out a different offering of theirs. The Border is a travel backpack is well thought out, allowing you to stash a bunch of stuff in a carry on and open it up in a hotel room without things going everywhere.
The pockets have a good flow to them, from the two large main ones on either side to the multiple smaller item zips that attach to the outside. It’s great for speedy packing on the go, which seems to always happen to our family as we rush to beat the checkout time.
It’s not necessarily family-sized, but will suit the parents, at least, or do well in warmer climates when less clothing is needed. Either way, it’s durable and easy to pack quickly, which is why it earned its keep on this list.
Best Large Travel Bag: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 100L
Bottom line: If you just want to toss everything in and go, this will do it for you.
Pros
✓ Packs up for easy storage
✓ Super durable
✓ Now PFAS-free [VERIFY: confirm current DWR/PFAS status for this exact model on patagonia.ca]
Cons
✕ Can be awkward to carry if you have other bags too
At a glance
Price: ~$225
Capacity / weight: 100L/56.3 oz
Best for: When space or weight isn’t an issue
Good to know: 100% recycled polyester ripstop with recycled TPU laminate, stuffs into its own pocket, removable backpack straps, Fair Trade Certified
Patagonia needs no introduction, but most people know about their clothing and outerwear. Their bags are no slouch either. This duffel is the go-to for big family adventures when we want to pack it all. We have even made it a traveling beach getaway in one kit.
It’s large, durable, and even packs up to stash away when you don’t need it. It’s nothing fancy, but that’s the point. It’s a big duffel bag to toss in as much as you can, and won’t easily rip. Plus, you can add shoulder straps to lug it on the back. Not the easiest solution, but its better than one of those massive suitcases that takes up space in the closet when not being used.
Best Packable Bag: Matador ReFraction Packable Duffle
Bottom line: A perfect day-tripper that packs to practically nothing and weighs a few ounces, but still holds 25L of essentials.
Pros
✓ Really packable — folds into its own pocket
✓ Strong straps
Cons
✕ Easy to stain — we prefer the black for this reason
At a glance
Price: ~$55 USD
Capacity / weight: 25L · 7.9 oz (225 g)
Best for: A day bag that packs into your luggage when travelling
Good to know: 100D recycled nylon, PFAS-free, YKK zippers, 3-year warranty
We all need a day bag, but packing an empty one can waste some precious cargo space. Matador makes some excellent travel bags that are easy to pack,a nd we found the ReFraction to be in a sweet spot for carrying a good amount of gear during the day, and packing up to a tiny size when in transit.
There’s nothing special about how its organized, but we can attest to its durability, having been a diaper bag tossed in the car, a mobile beach diaper bag, and a snack kit that always held up over the past few years.
How to Choose a Family Travel Bag
Choosing the right travel bag for your family depends a lot on your style. Are you already super organized? Do you have some extra cash or are on a budget? Do you need compartments, or just one big place to stash and spray out when getting to your rental? Answers to these questions and more will help you narrow it down.
Pockets: Is there a good mix of large and small?
Wet/dirty space: Is there a spot for wet or dirty clothes and/or diapers?
Material: Is it water/mud repellent? And how will it look with some rogue marker artwork by your toddler? Black is usually best — unless you enjoy a bit of DIY design from your kid.
Sanity space: Can you fit a book/tablet/laptop in as well, for when you need some time to yourself?
Space for valuables: Is there a small pocket for keys/wallet/phone that’s easy to access when needed — and safe from a stray hand?
Attaches to other bags: Can it fix onto a pull handle for rolling luggage? Can it be worn as a backpack?
FAQ
What size bag do we need for a family trip?
Rough rule of thumb: a 40–42L carry-on covers a few days for one or two people, while a 100L duffel swallows a full family’s clothing for a longer haul. Many families run one big bag plus a packable day bag.
Carry-on or checked?
The odds are you’ll need both. Kids require so many accessories. We fought it for a while but realized that it’s not an easy task to pack light. But a carryon is essential when you need to entertain kids, keep them fed, and have spare diapers. If you can travel with only a carry-on, please reach out so we can interview you and hear your secrets for the world to hear!
How do you keep dirty or wet clothes separate?
Some bags have special compartments or features. The Hideaway Duffel has a laundry sack built-in that has saved us numerous times. Gregory’s Border bag has
The Final Word
If you want one bag to rule them all, go for the Hideaway Duffel. It has literally made us better at organizing things by its layout. But each bag in this review stands out in its category, and we use them all for their specific reasons, going as far as packing them all on long-haul flights. We’ve tested others, but these ones rose to the top.
Whatever the best bag for your family is, make sure it’s built to last. They will get punished over the years, if everything goes to plan. Hopefully this guide helped you narrow some choices down a bit further. If you need any help, please get in touch, we’re happy to answer any questions and help families navigate the beautiful chaos of traveling with little ones.
Sometimes life throws you lemons, while other times, sumptuous summer strawberries. Here is the latter, an excellent adventure aboard a comfortable and cozy houseboat along the scenic Winnipeg River. With summer upon us, so is the season of the houseboat.
A splash of inspiration pour vous, whether or not you’ve experienced adventures aboard a houseboat. If you’ve thought what family life on the water might look like, but feel it slightly daunting, not knowing where to begin or what the weather conditions may bring, a houseboat adventure is a good place to dip your toes, get your feet a little wet, so to speak.
With that, I bring you a guest post from our most excellent pals living over yonder in ye olde Manitoba. Thanks to Alicia for your inspiring words, Eric for capturing the moments, and to Emi and Everett for soaking up that hammock!
You’re speaking my language Emi. Could there possibly be a better spot to relax on a hammock?In case you’re not convinced. Everett chillin’ and inspiring.
A Family Adventure We Won’t Soon Forget: Houseboating on the Winnipeg River
Some of the best family memories are the ones you never quite expect.
At the end of May, we went on a family adventure aboard a Voyageur Houseboat on the Winnipeg River. The weather wasn’t exactly cooperating (we got plenty of rain and cooler temperatures), but we wouldn’t have changed a thing. In fact, we discovered that there is something very special about a cozy, off-season adventure with your family.
Living in Pinawa for the past five years, we’ve come to appreciate life on the Winnipeg River. For my husband, though, these waters have been part of his life since he was a kid. He grew up spending summers at his family cottage in Pointe du Bois, exploring the river and later working as a fishing guide. We’ve spent many days boating and sailing as a family, but experiencing the river from a houseboat gave us a whole new perspective.
The thing I loved most about the experience was how easy and stress-free it was. Being an outdoorsy family, we are used to canoeing into the wilderness and packing all our food and lightweight gear over portages – and while we love doing this, there is a lot of work involved. What was so different was that this trip was completely guided, and everything was thoughtfully set up for us, from the cozy hammock on the front deck to the perfect spots to anchor and spend the night. The adventure also included kayaks so that we could set off and do some exploring ourselves. While it felt a bit strange at first (mainly for Eric) we very quickly got used to just sitting back and enjoying all the extra time we had available to us by not having to do the work.
Our kids, ages 9 and 11, embraced houseboat life immediately. The front hammock quickly became their favourite place to relax (and a spot to fight over – I’m sure many parents can relate;). And, of course, the bunk beds were instantly a source of entertainment (luckily there was some agreement there!). Every night felt like a fun sleepover peacefully floating on the water.
The rain didn’t slow us down (we always pack our rain gear!). We played games, got out for a hike, and relaxed in the comfort of our floating cabin. One evening, we paddled over to Otter Falls Resort for a delicious supper and ice cream – a definite highlight of the trip.
As parents, we often feel pressure to fill vacations with activities and schedules, but this trip reminded me that a great getaway doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the things I appreciated most was how little planning was required. The houseboat came stocked with a lot of great stuff. A fully equipped kitchen, a bbq, up to 4 kayaks, binoculars, towels, a hot shower, to name a few! The dry composting toilet turned out to be surprisingly smell-free and became a fun science lesson for our kids (haha). Everything was thoughtfully designed, so we could spend less time organizing and more time enjoying ourselves!
Is the idea of flying with your kids enough to make you stop in your tracks, stay home and dream of the ‘one day’ when things will become easier? Word on the street – that ‘one day’ ain’t coming. It’s time to embrace doing the hard things now, and the more ya do it, the easier it’ll become. Especially when equipped with the right tools.
The tools of the travel trade begin with your luggage. Believe you me, as an ex-flight attendant with ADHD, I wholeheartedly know the value of staying organized while on the fly. Your bags are the backbone of your trip, to feeling grounded while on the move, lugging your gear and your kids prized possessions.
Bags that make travelling with kids a little simpler.
Look no further than No Reception Club. These thoughtfully designed bags have come from a set of real-life (local Vancouverite) parents whom found a gaping hole in the market of organized travel with kiddos.
The idea of No Reception Club was birthed when their first was just a wee babe, on a 6 hour flight to Hawaii. Where, oh where were their diapers and wipes? With limited opportunity to get up and use the lavs on bumpy busy flights, you don’t want to be stuck questioning where your essentials are, believe you me. Thus came the idea of creating the best possible carry-on baby/toddler/kid bags on the market. They have succeeded, with not 1, but now 3 said bags, and rumour has it a wheelie bag is in the near future.
Blending Gemma’s background in fashion design and Daniel’s idea-generating mind in tech, they care deeply about creating the best kid travel bags out there and the world our children inherit. They know the importance of travel, the lived experience education gained and the connection that comes from being disconnected – to have No Reception.
We could’ve written their mission statement ourselves:
‘We empower parents to go on family adventures because we believe travel becomes more important with little ones, not less.’
Yup. We can get behind their motto. What’s a motto? Nuthin, what’s a motto with you? 😉
With their lifetime warranty, they stand behind their product. And so do we.
Their multi-award winning travel bags, the Hideaway Duffel and the Getaway Bag are so beautifully planned, they’ve kept my jet-lagged and sleep-deprived mind far less messy on the road. No more forgetting which pocket the passports are in when you’re struggling with sleeping kids off a red-eye. I will give a brief summary of why we choose their bags. You can find far more info, more specs and a great blog on their website.
Have we all been here? When the kids finally fall asleep towards the end of the flight, and you wanna maximize their zzz’s, so you wait until the very last minute once you’re organized, to pick ’em up.And again. Too hard waking up a sleeping bébé.
The Sidekick Bag
Our well loved Sidekick bag, kickin’ around for the past 3+ years.
We’ve used the Sidekick bag on the daily since our now nearly 4 year old was just a baby. It’s handy, it’s light, it’s simple and straightforward. It’s conveniently equipped with a change pad, and space for diapers, bum cream – all the essentials. The designated magnetic quick-access pocket for wipes is clever. It feels fuss free, perfect for keeping stashed in your car or stroller, conveniently on hand for whenever the poop face strikes. It’s made simply for diapers, nothing else (other than maybe a few small toys – if you need some help entertaining your wee one while in diaper change mode).
The easy access magnetic opening wipe door.
The Getaway bag 4.0
Our version 1.0 of the Getaway Bag. We be lovin’ this OG just as it is for over 3 years.
No Reception Club bags are designed to evolve with your kids, and that’s just what the design of The Getaway Bag is doing as Gemma and Daniel’s ‘third kid’. They’re not only figuring how to make the most organized bag, they’re answering the question of how to be the most comfortable product on the market
Your backpack will never be heavier and stuffed with more stuff, than when you have a very small child. An organized and comfortable backpack needs to be emphasized during this phase of life.
They’re answering their call to comfort with their latest upgrades. The latest version comes with contoured shoulder straps, an air strip down the back with more structured and denser foam to keep things cool and cozy while navigating airports and new places. They’ve also added a secure sternum strap that stays in place while moving around. The trusty award winning bag still has the same ol’ wonderful design, the inside shelves flexible and removable to arrange different items as interests mature. Feeding, changing, entertainment divided organized shelves, accessed by a side panel and top opening. The opposite side panel zippers open, to reveal an opening that conveniently fits the sidekick bag or any other must-haves.
Our well loved Getaway bag and it’s side shelves.
Also, winning extra points on their social service, direct from their website: ‘Every Getaway Bag sold will help Baby2Baby distribute 20 diapers to a baby in need.‘
The Hideaway Duffel
Not just the best bag for long haul flights, we bring this puppy everywhere, ready for all totally excellent adventures!
The real test came when I slipped in the mud while crossing a stream to get to our backcountry campsite. Although muddy and wet on the outside, the goods inside were intact, dry and clean. Once the mud dried, it easily wiped off, and now over a year later, looks brand new (see first image) thanks to the durable CORDURA® Eco 600D/1200D polyester shell.
This duffel is a narrow personal fave of all No Reception Club’s bags. Although each bag serves a different purpose, this one tames my ADHD sleepy travelling mind the most. I use this bag less while on the go/flights, but more once we arrive. With a customizable and removable organizer insert aka ‘the cubby’, I can keep my daughter’s clothes, jammies and toys separate from my son’s. It’s 42 litre capacity is perfect for 2 toddlers, also meeting the allowed carry-on dimensions. We may have to purchase another down the road to grow our bag space with our growing kids, or just get used to packing less.
Laundry bay on left, cubby installed to divide and conquer!
The added laundry bag is brilliant, as are the odour resistant compartments to keep your stinky socks and soiled shoes in. The handy stash pockets are created to fit easy access items, such as toys, books, and NRC’s accessories – the Dopp Kit, sliders and/or their insulated lunch kit.
c/o No Reception Club. Their kids toiletry bag – The Dopp Kit- fitting perfectly into the top pocket of the Duffel.
The Hideaway Duffel can also conveniently be carried in various ways, with backpack straps, a single shoulder strap, many handles, and a back pocket to fit over your rolley bag.
The Dopp Kit
Small but mighty. No Reception Club really does make feeling organized, with kids, seem simple. This toiletry bag is made for littles to fit their little stash of bathroom stuffs. For us, there’s enough space on short adventures, to fit mom and dad’s things too. With see-through windows and mesh pockets on the inside, no more hide-and-seek in a dark oblivion to find where their things are.
Comparison
Although not comparable in their use, here’s a quick rundown of price and size.
Bag
SideKick Bag
The Getaway Bag
The Hideaway Duffel
The Dopp Kit
Price
$100 CAD
$275 CAD
$345 CAD
$66 CAD
Use
Diaper Fanny Pack
Travel Diaper Backpack
Carry-On Carry-All
Kids Toiletry Bag
Size
3 Litres
24 Litres
42 Litres
23cm x 14 x 4cm
Cons
Can’t think of many. Some fun colours could be nice, as the selection is pretty basic. I get the bags are made for the parents to lug around, but our kids are sparkly, I could see them getting more onboard with them if they looked totally excellent through their eyes.
The price is slightly steep. With their lifetime warranty, you can hope that they’ll stick with your kid for life. I know once our youngest is out of diapers, we can easily repurpose the Sidekick fanny pack as a convenient carry all, and the backpack and duffel are certainly age-less.
If you’re looking for lightweight and flexible bags to take on your next backcountry backpack trip, these may not be for you.
In Conclusion
We’ve been testing No Reception Clubs bag for three years now. We can attest that their product is durable, excellent quality and built to last. With their ethics of paying it forward to baby’s in need, using mostly recycled materials, and inspiring families to get out there and explore, they are creating a better world world for our children – one bag at a time.
👍👍
Stay tuned
This review comes as No Reception Club just released their latest version of their Getaway Bag (June 2026). Word on the street is they’ll also be coming out with a roller bag. So keep your eyes peeled for the latest drop in their delightfully designed family of bags.
Simplifying Family Adventures on the Sea to Sky Highway
Exploring the Sea to Sky corridor in British Columbia is in our family’s blood. Dad grew up close by on the North Shore, and moved to Whistler as a young buck out of college. He met mom when she took some time away from city life to recalibrate… and the rest is history.
Now with two little ones, we try to get out as much as possible. We love exploring the BC outdoors and sharing our love of hiking, biking, and general outdoor adventure with our kids, hoping some of our passion rubs off on them. By all measures, it seems like it has.
The Problem With Planning Family Travel in BC
We started Excellent Family Adventures to help families explore the outdoors, find the best kid-friendly places to go, find outdoor gear that lasts, and to instill a heart that goes beyond the self; helping to preserve the planet for future generations.
Along the way, we found out that planning a day out to explore can be overwhelming, even when it’s in our own backyard. Between endless blog posts, conflicting trail reviews, and unpredictable mountain conditions, finding reliable family itineraries is tough. We wanted to get something out to the world to help other families explore the Sea to Sky without the travel planning overwhelm.
Our Solution: The Sea to Sky Family Navigator
So we built the Sea to Sky Family Navigator. It’s a free digital guidebook and interactive planning app designed specifically for parents looking to explore from Horseshoe Bay to Pemberton, including Squamish, Whistler, and everywhere in between.
How the Family Navigator App Works
Whether you are looking for a stroller-friendly walk, a rainy-day stop, or a full-day family bike ride, the Navigator simplifies your weekend. You can filter by activity type, duration, and kid-tested effort level to show only what interests your family. Browse by map if you’re a visual planner, save your favourite hidden gems, and build a custom day-trip planner in seconds.
There are very few activities around Vancouver, BC that offer real outdoor adventure with a few local comforts. Sure, there are pretty parks such as Stanley Park and Lighthouse Park, or activities such as Grouse Mountain or the Capilano Suspension Bridge, but our favourite spot to take our little ones is the Sea to Sky Gondola, just outside Squamish, BC.
About 45 minutes from downtown Vancouver, the Sea to Sky Gondola offers people of all ages and abilities the chance to experience the beauty of the BC coast mountains without the usual heavy effort to get there. Within 10 minutes the gondola whisks visitors up the mountain to over 800m above sea level, offering views of Howe Sound, the Squamish Valley, and a beautiful panorama of the Coast Mountains.
At the top of the Gondola is the Summit Lodge. In actuality it’s nowhere near the summit; but those semantics are for another day. The lodge is beautifully crafted, with everything you’d expect in a tourist destination: A cafe, bar, and of course, a gift shop. Everything is kept pretty clean and the staff are friendly. It’s a great start and finish point for some fun on the mountain.
The star of the Summit Lodge is the patio that offers sweeping views of Howe Sound and Sky Pilot mountain. Fridays in the summer become a ton of fun with live music and the sea to sky community getting out to enjoy the late afternoon/evening.
Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge
Right at the patio is the suspension bridge offering a beautiful view of sky pilot mountain. It’s nowhere near the vertical drop of the Capilano suspension bridge, but it still offers enough to look down upon as you walk over the tree tops. But the views in the distance are the real treat, especially late in the afternoon as the sun begins to hide behind the mountains.
The suspension bridge with Sky Pilot mountain in the background.It’s worth it to wait for the right time to go across the bridge.
From there, it’s a short loop to get back to the base, where a variety of other hiking trails are available. There are also a few play structures for kids to play on; as well as a picnic area. As I’m sure you all know, when you have kids, it’s important to break up an outing with snacks, and the folks here have designed a great zone to break up each hiking loop with some other activities—including eating.
Front Country Hiking Trails
There are several trails within the patrolled boundary of the Sea to Sky gondola that all loop back to the gondola. They are much more mellow and suit the more casual crowd who isn’t a hardcore hiker.
Alpine Alley
This is the best hiking trail for kids is Alpine Alley, which is a simple loop trail with a few (fake) furry surprises. The trail starts and ends right next to the gondola, allowing for an easy exit if emotions get the best of a little one (or their adult). There are a few challenging sections for the bigger kids, but all the steep bits have a walkaround section if it’s a bit too much.
You can get a specialized map for Alpine Alley at the entrance to the trail, which also offers clues to all the different items you can find along the way. If you have only one trail to do with the kids, this is the one.
This tunnel was a hit with our 1 year old.
Panorama Trail
This trail is a bit longer, so smaller children might get bored, but it’s doable. It’s well graded and has nice construction along the bridges, offering a beautiful lookout before returning back. It’s still more of a walk thank a hike, but perfect for bringing little ones along without too much fuss.
Cruising along at the Panorama trail
Backcountry Hiking Trails
While I don’t have any official statistics, I’d guess that at least 90% of the guests at the Sea to Sky Gondola don’t venture beyond the main area and manicured front country trails. Those trails are nice and will suit an outing very well, with most people being more than satisfied for a day trip.
BUT… if you’re the type who wants to venture a bit further, then it’s well worth a bit of extra effort to go up the backcountry trails to make a whole day (or longer) out of it.
There are two mountains within a short jaunt of the top of the Sea to Sky gondola: Mt. Habrich and Sky Pilot. Habrich is very similar to what you find on The Chief: big granite cliffs that point straight upward. Sky Pilot, on the other hand, has much more jagged rock and is a different landscape altogether. It’s pretty remarkable that these mountains are so different and coexist right next to one another. But that’s the amazing varied geology of Squamish. You get a lot in a relatively short amount of space.
Mt. Habrich
Al’s Habrich trail is a fantastic loop that is similar to the Chief, only much larger in scale. The loop to the subalpine meadows takes about 5-6 hours at an intermediate pace, but you can go much higher than that. The peak is another story altogether and we wouldn’t recommend that for a family adventure. But you can get a bit further up from the “Neverland Loop” which is well worth the extra effort for the views.
This is only one angle but there are many more worth seeing from high up on Habrich.
Sky Pilot Mountain
This hike is definitely a bit more technical, and one we don’t recommend taking young kids on. That said, we took our daughter here when she was about 10 months old. Smaller babies are actually easier since they aren’t mobile, but we didn’t make it to the alpine since that would be a bit too dangerous for our liking. But the views still made it worth it.
Allow yourself a few hours as the trail (once the logging road ends) is a bit steep. But once you get to the subalpine you get a fantastic subalpine environment to explore.
Bottles up!
Events and Activities
The other beauty of the Sea to Sky Gondola is the programming they have. It seems as though there are always fun organized events happening. One regular event worth going to with a baby is the parent and baby hike. This can be a great way to meet local parents (mostly moms) and have a casual walk around without much pressure to push it, yet still get some exercise. Those happen on Thursday mornings, but it’s best to check with them for sure.
We already mentioned it but it’s worth a second nod: in the summer months, Fridays are hoppin’ with live music. The legendary Hairfarmers usually play a few times a year, but those events are so popular they eventually stop letting people up. So make sure you get up early for that one if so.
Winter is also a great time to visit the Sea to Sky gondola. Not only do you get out of the rain at sea level to (usually) a snowy mountain scene, but you will also find some of the best easy access backcountry skiing available. The 2km road to Sky Pilot is groomed, making for some quick access to the vertical. It’s easy to do a half day here and still get your fill for powder with such an easy turnaround.
For the kids, there is a tubing hill that costs $5 (at the time of posting) and is actually pretty thrilling—it’s easy to pick up some speed. It’s not suited for smaller children but bigger kids and adults will definitely get their money’s worth.
For those who want some softer activity, there is always snowshoeing and you can rent snowshoes from the summit lodge.
More Great Stops on the Sea to Sky
The corridor is packed full of fun stops between Horseshoe Bay and Whistler. Right next door to the gondola is Shannon Falls, which is worth the quick stop, and there is even a trail right from the gondola parking lot to save you the mess of dealing people fighting over the limited spots.
For a fun, interactive app showcasing the best of the sea to sky corridor, check out the Sea to Sky Family Navigator. It’s totally free and our gift to families both local and from afar!
Helpful Links
Here are some links that will make your visit to the Sea to Sky gondola a bit easier:
Whistler, BC is a little town with a massive reputation. Once the site of a quiet fishing lodge, the valley at the top of two watersheds is now an international tourist destination.
It’s easy to see why the vibe attracts so many. It’s close to an abundance of nature, it’s easy to navigate (even with micro-humans in tow), and visitors have their pick of world-class hotels and restaurants to suit any budget. But beyond the resort facade, there is a core community of people dedicating their lives to the pursuit of getting outside and exploring the wild.
As a 16-year local exploring the Sea to Sky corridor (and a visitor since I was a kid), I have been fortunate to experience the ins and outs of the area for most of my life. Now that we have two small children, we are rediscovering the valley in a whole new light.
Local Tip: Whistler has two different clocks. Before 10AM is a quiet mountain town with plenty of space to breathe. After 10 it’s an international resort with lineups and crowds. If you can beat the masses, you’ll be a step ahead for all the activities, no matter what season.
This Whistler family travel guide is packed with insider tips, family-tested activities, and flexible options for every season to help you plan the perfect trip.
Summer in Whistler is arguably even better than the winter!
Whistler With Kids: The Quick Version
Drive from Vancouver Airport (YVR)
~2.5 hrs from the terminal
Drive from Downtown Vancouver
~1.5 hrs from Burrard/Georgia
Best months with kids
Anytime, really. We love March-April for skiing, and September-October for less crowds.
Picking a good vacation isn’t easy, especially when you’re an active family looking for more than just a passive resort stay. We want to fully experience an area, get dirty, and build real memories. As a purpose-built resort municipality, Whistler makes this incredibly easy.
A Car-Free, Safe Village
The main village was designed in the early 80s as a pedestrian-only zone. When you are traveling with toddlers or kids, this means unparalleled safety. You can let the kids be a bit more free-range without constantly worrying about vehicle traffic.
Nature Everywhere You Look
Whistler sits in a temperate rainforest in the Coast Mountains. Being at the top of a mountain pass, numerous lakes take residence in the valley. Just in town, there are five lakes within a 10-15 minute bike ride of the village. You will find 800-year-old trees, incredible biodiversity, and fresh mountain air just steps from world-class amenities.
Activities for All Ages
There are things to do here for everyone from babies to grandparents (and great-grandparents, for that matter). Whistler has arts and cultural museums, golf courses, shopping, mountain biking, and one of the world’s best ski resorts. All of it is easily accessible from the village, either by a short bike ride or a few minutes by car.
Getting Here: The Sea to Sky Highway
Whistler sits roughly 2.5 hours north of Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
By Car
Driving from Vancouver to Whistler is easily one of the most beautiful stretches of road on the planet. The highway traverses the Coast Mountains along Howe Sound toward Squamish. From there, it’s roughly 40 minutes uphill, past Nch’Kay and Black Tusk mountains. You can easily rent a car from YVR or downtown Vancouver.
We’ve built the Sea to Sky Navigator app to make traveling the highway fun, breaking up the trip with cool stops all along the way. Check it out, it’s completely free!
Parking in Whistler
Whistler has ample parking. The challenge is finding free parking. The day lots 1-5 in the village offer 12 hour parking for a decent rate; last we checked it was $12. Hotels are significantly more, as is street parking or in the parks. Overcrowding is a thing so it’s best to take public transit or rent a bike if you can.
There is free parking in creekside at the parkade, however you can’t park overnight. Same with lots 6-8 on Glacier Drive on Blackcomb in the upper village.
By Bus & Ride Sharing
Skylynx is the most common transport option directly from YVR to Whistler. Epic Rides is a highly affordable option that departs from downtown Vancouver. You can also use Poparide, an app that helps drivers get some extra gas money while giving passengers affordable transportation.
How Many Days Do You Need in Whistler?
Several decades later, and we’re still finding fun spots to go in Whistler. So the answer is, as many days as you can possibly fit. You’ll want to come back. But we know that’s not realistic, so here’s a quick-hit itinerary if you have limited time.
Length of stay
What you can realistically do
One day
Village and Lost Lake
A weekend (2 nights)
Village, Peak 2 Peak, Lost Lake, Rainbow Park
Three to four nights
Village, Peak 2 Peak, Lost Lake, Rainbow Park, Creekside, Train Wreck
A week
Longer day trips to Pemberton, Squamish, and Callaghan Lake
Where to Stay In Whistler With Kids
Where
Area
Budget
Best for
Kitchen?
HI Whistler
Cheakamus Crossing
$
Biking families
Shared
Riverside Campground
North of Village
$–$$
RV, cabins, yurts
Yes
Nita Lake Lodge
Creekside
$$$
Quiet luxury, lakeside
Some units
Four Seasons
Upper Village
$$$$
Service, Lost Lake access
No
Smaller Budgets
HI Whistler: The most affordable hotel-style accommodation is booking a private family ensuite here. Located in Cheakamus Crossing (the 2010 Athlete’s Village), it is perfect for families who love mountain biking right out the front door.
Riverside Campground: Just north of the village, Riverside offers RV camping, cabins, and yurts. You are right next to the Scandinave Spa and the Lost Lake Trails, making it a fantastic basecamp.
Moderate to Luxury Budgets
Nita Lake Lodge: If you like luxury amenities but want to avoid the loud busyness of the main village, this Creekside hotel is our absolute favorite. The rooms are massive, the bathtubs are incredible, and the location right on the lake is unbeatable. Read our full family review of Nita Lake Lodge here!
Nita Lake Lodge feels like its own private escape.
Four Seasons Resort Whistler: It’s hard to go wrong here. Aside from top-notch room furnishings, the staff goes above and beyond to make kids feel welcome. It’s a short walk to Lost Lake park and the Chateau Whistler golf course.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler: As close as you can get to the slopes on Blackcomb without sleeping in the lifty shack. It’s pricey, but oh-so-luxurious, and the service is from genuine people who are just plain caring and nice.
Northern lights not available all the time.
Top Things to Do in Whistler with Kids (By Season)
Year-Round
Peak2Peak Gondola: The quintissential day activity. Go up one mountain, ride across a world record breaking span to the other, and go down the other one.
Whistler Village: It’s a glorified shopping mall in the mountains, but it’s still worth cruising around.
Winter Activities
Skiing and Snowboarding: Consistently ranked among the best ski resorts on the planet, the family learning zones on both mountains are world-class. It’s pricey, though, but you probably know that if you are coming here. Kids 3 and under are free, however. The Epic Pass is by far the best value if you’re going to do more than five days on the mountain.
Tube Park: Easily accessible from Blackcomb’s Excalibur gondola, the tube park offers varying runs of difficulty for all ages. The minimum age is 3 years and minimum height 36 inches.
Ice Skating:The Olympic Plaza in the village offers free outdoor skating in the winter with cheap rentals. Try to go mid-afternoon to avoid the evening crowds.
The views in winter are something else.
Spring & Fall Activities
The Valley Trail: Whistler’s paved trail network connects the entire town. It is perfect for family bike rides (this is where we rigorously tested our Strider Balance Bikes!). A number of rental shops can get you and your kids outfitted. We are fans of Whistler Eco Tours and Arbutus Routes.
Nature Walks: The forest comes alive when it rains. Check out the Train Wreck trail or Cheakamus Lake trail to see the old-growth trees and powerful river rapids.
The fall colours come alive in Whistler Village, thanks to some great intentional landscaping.
Summer Activities
Lost Lake Park: The warmest of the major lakes, featuring a large grassy park and beginner-friendly cross-country mountain bike trails. You’ll find flush toilets here and food trucks in the summer months as part of the Park Eats program.
Ziptrek Ecotours: Zip between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains through the old-growth canopy. For smaller kids, the TreeTrek keeps your feet on suspension bridges rather than ziplines. Minimum age is 6 for standard ziplines, or 10 for the massive Sasquatch.
River of Golden Dreams: Rent a canoe or hire a guide through Whistler Eco Tours to lazily float between Alta Lake and Green Lake. It’s a 2 hour journey, and you can book a tour with Whistler Eco Tours.
Whistler Mountain Bike Park. This is a crowd-pleaser, and worth a visit if you ride bikes. Don’t let the crazy stunts dissuade you, there are mellow trails that are still super fun and worth a gander.
Best Family-Friendly Hikes in Whistler
Whistler has more hiking trails than there is time in the day. Here is a rundown on some of our favorite hikes for families to enjoy the best of the valley. You can also check out our page for the Best Toddler-Friendly Hikes in the Sea-to-sky for more ideas.
In our opinion, this is the best hike for families in Whistler. It is a fairly gentle, out and back trail that takes you into an ancient forest, with trees that are over 800 years old. The trail winds up at Cheakamus Lake, a glacier-fed beauty that can be seen from the top of Whistler Mountain.
The road can get really bumpy (and dusty) in the summer with lots of traffic. Be sure to take it slow, and avoid if you have a low-clearance vehicle. It’s managable, but just take it easy if you don’t have a SUV or 4×4 to deal with the potholes.
Train Wreck Trail
The trail winds through a beautiful forest near the Cheakamus river, ending up at the site of an old train wreck. Since then, people have sprayed graffiti all over the train cars to give a unique look in the green forest by the river. Kids love it, making for some truly unique photo opportunities.
The suspension bridge can be a bit intimidating, so just be sure to have kids who are a bit uneasy with heights close by.
Whistler Interpretive Forest / Logger’s Lake
The big highlight we like here is the short 450m hike from the parking lot to Loggers Lake, an old volcanic crater that gets warmer than other lakes due to the basalt basin the lake sites in. There is also a can’t-miss suspension bridge that kids love!
The Rainy Day Plan
The travel agents might “forget” to tell you that Whistler is in a temperate rainforest. While that may turn some people off, it’s also why the place is so green and full of life. Lean into it, dress appropriately, and explore the forest when it soaks up all the water coming down from the sky.
But even that can get old after a few days. Here are some other activities to enjoy:
Whistler Library: Right in the heart of the village, it’s a beautiful space that is kid-friendly. In addition to books you’ll also find movies, a “library of things”, and computers.
Audain Art Museum: Younger kids might get bored here but older kids and adults will appreciate a bit of culture. The museum has rotating collecitons and First Nations art that is beyond impressive.
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre: Learn about the First Peoples who have been here for over 10,000 years. This joint effort from the two nations whose land Whistler sits on is a fascinating glimpse into the cultures of two distinct nations, with their own languages, clothing, and customs.
Meadow Park Sports Centre: A pool and ice rink. Need we say more?
Escape! Whistler: Whistler’s own set of escape rooms that will challenge even the most crafty amongst the family.
The Best Playgrounds in Whistler
Olympic Plaza
The Olympic Plaza at the far north end of the village has a fantastic, natural-style playground that is open year-round. There are numerous shops and cafés nearby, so kids can play while parents sip coffee.
Alpha Lake Park
The playground at Alpha Lake Park offers a unique treehouse like structure, with real metal slides. It also has a small climbing wall, a large swingset, a great beach, and a dog park.
The awesome custom play structure at Alpha Lake Park
Where To Eat With the Family
El Furniture Warehouse: Known for its highly affordable food menu. It gets busy, so hit it at off-peak hours.
Pasta Lupino: A local Main Street favorite for decades. Filling, affordable, and kids love the spaghetti.
Splitz Grill: Whistler’s famous burger joint. We highly recommend saving room for the banana split(z).
Creekbread: One of the best family-friendly restaurants in the valley, serving wood-fired pizza with organic ingredients in Creekside. High chairs are prevalent as this is one of the most kid-friendly restaurants in Whistler. They don’t have a dedicated kids’ menu, but what kid doesn’t like a cheese pizza? Really, that’s all we need on a menu for our kids to be happy.
Day Trips from Whistler
Brandywine Falls
Brandywine Falls provincial park offers an easily accessible viewpoint of the waterfall, just a short 10 minute walk from the highway. In the winter months the waterfall can freeze up for a really spectacular display.
Callaghan Valley
The Callaghan is just 15 minutes south of Whistler and opens up a world of options. In the summer, it’s all about the lake. Callaghan Lake Provincial Park is a gem for camping, (small) boating, fishing, and hiking.
The Callaghan Lake road is genuinely rough, so smaller cars will have an issue with the trek. That said…. we’ve seen it all on this road. It depends on how much you like the undersides. But like Cheakamus Lake, it’s worth the trek.
Callaghan lake and valley from the far side.
What a Family Weekend in Whistler Actually Costs
It’s true that Whistler is on the expensive side, but in comparison to a resort int eh US or Europe, it’s pretty comparable. In the busy months, expect at least $200/night for accommodation, all the way up to $1000/night in a top hotel during prime time.
Activities will range anywhere from $150-300, and often give discounts for kids, but it’s totally kid-dependant.
So a healthy budget for a long weekend away is $1000-2000 for a family of four, given you aren’t counting every expense. You can definitely do it a bit cheaper, and for sure can spend a lot more. But if you can budget that, it’ll be a good time in the valley without feeling like you’re missing out.
Summer is just as busy as winter, if not more these days, but the shoulder seasons do offer deals both on accommodation in the restaurants. So if you can plan accordingly, there are definitely savings by going against the grain.
Free
Costs money
Valley Trail, lakes and beaches, playgrounds, Train Wreck, most hiking that isn’t on Whistler/Blackcomb
Anything to do with Whistler/Blackcomb, Ziptrek, Bungy Jumping, ATVs/Snowmobile, etc.
Bears, Weather & Staying Safe
Whistler is in a valley at the top of a pass in the Coast Range. It’s wild nature, marketed as a resort. There are real risks and hazards here, but it’s all manageable. The first big thing that people worry about is bears. They are here and have been here longer than people.
So you need to be smart about how you interact with bears. Always make noise when walking on trails (even the Valley Trail, you’ll see bear scat frequently along the way). When out picnicking, make sure you keep your foot contained, and never leave unattended. If you do, try to hang it up in a tree, away from other people, or lock it up in your car, if possible.
The weather can change in an instant, so always have an extra layer. Higher up on the mountain it can even snow in the summer, so be prepared for anything.
The cubs can be scared, but mama was not far away, snorting and giving a nice warning to keep clear.
Local Tips For Visiting Whistler
Beat the Crowds: The biggest local secret? Most tourists don’t go out before 10 AM. If you are out the door by 8 AM, you’ll have the trails and mountains largely to yourself.
Shoulder Season Deals: May-June and October-November offer huge savings on food and accommodation.
The Weather: We are in a temperate rainforest. There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear. Check out our Gear Reviews to ensure your family is packed properly!
Planning the whole Sea to Sky trip?
Get our free app to help you plan out all the adventures along the Sea to Sky highway — every stop between Horseshoe Bay and Pemberton, sorted for families.
Absolutely. Whistler was purpose-built as a pedestrian-friendly resort. Between the paved Valley Trail, the numerous playgrounds, and the easy access to nature, it is one of the most accessible outdoor destinations for families with kids of all ages.
What is the best month to visit Whistler with kids?
For summer activities, September is incredible—the lakes are still warm, the dirt is tacky for biking, and the summer crowds have gone home. For skiing, late January through February offers the most reliable snow conditions.
Do I need a car in Whistler?
No! If you stay near the Village or Creekside, you can easily navigate the town using the free local shuttle system, the paved Valley Trail, or simply walking.
How many days do you need in Whistler with kids?
As many as you can get! Realistically, you don’t want to do less than two days. But everyone has a limited schedule, so try a long weekend to get your bearings. If you’re a mountain biker, you can stay busy for a lifetime. After 16 years as a local and even longer as a mountain biker, I’m still finding trails and routes that I’ve never tried before! Then add Squamish and Pemberton, and you unlock another dimension altogether. Same goes for hiking.
Is Whistler expensive for a family?
No lie, it can be. But it can also be incredibly affordable. Accommodation is probably the biggest expense, so if you are into camping, there are countless options around the valley on crown land. Food can be pricey but if you purchase groceries in Squamish or Vancouver before getting here, it’s often significantly cheaper. As for activities, they can add up, or you can just enjoy nature, which is free.
What is there to do in Whistler when it rains?
There is plenty to do when it rains. Number 1 is get outside! It’s a rainforest and the forest comes alive. We’re fans of Cheakamus Lake but if you want to stay closer to town, check out the Emerald Forest. If you prefer to stay inside, the Library is great, as is the Meadow Park Sports Centre. Or for a fun family activity, check out Escape! Whistler, the local escape rooms.
Can you take a stroller on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola?
Yes, the Peak 2 Peak has plenty of space for strollers. It’s perfectly safe to bring a kid onboard.
Are there bears in Whistler?
Yes! There are black bears that live in Whistler, and have lived here long before humans made it a destination resort. We’re in their space, not the other way around. They are active from early spring until November-December. They will mostly keep their distance with two exceptions: They are attracted to garbage, which is why there are the bear-proof garbage bins everywhere. Also, a mom will defend her cubs, so if you see a set of cubs, don’t stick around, as cute as they may be. Otherwise, they will keep to themselves and leave people alone.
Come Back in Another Season
The beauty of Whistler is that it truly is a four-season place to play. Every time we go back, there is something unique about the landscape we can enjoy. Even if you’re not a hard-core skier, the snow and silence in the winter is worth a visit. The rainy season may scare some people off, but it’s a rainforest, and it’s remarkable when the forest comes alive. Don’t just visit during the busy season, it does get quiet here, and the restaurant deals during the slow season are worth it in themselves.
Feel free to get in touch with us if you have any questions, we love to share the magic of this place beyond the usual tourist haunts. Hopefully we’ll see you out there!
Sure, you can book an all-inclusive beach vacation and call it a day. But is that truly travelling?
Of course not. It’s an easy way to take some time off, but it’s not immersing you and your family in the lands, culture, and special places that truly make a destination worth visiting.
EFA contributor Matt Maddaloni went with his family to Costa Rica in March 2025. Not one to take the conventional route, Matt and his crew set out for adventure in the mountains, jungles, and beaches of Costa Rica. They decided to do something a bit different, and documented the trip through their eyes. The result is the above half-hour special dedicated to exploring Costa Rica and what makes it special.
For three months at the beginning of 2023, Matt Maddaloni and Soile Halonen, and their three girls Annika 8 , Eveliina 11, and Chloe 10, embarked on an excellent adventure through Africa. The family traversed the southern end of the continent, visiting South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana.
The plan was loose enough: fly into Cape Town, get a vehicle, hit the road, and make memories. But as the days moved into weeks, and the pavement transitioned into dirt, every one of them realized what many visitors to Africa do: this place gets under your skin.
A Road Trip Through South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana
Coming from Squamish, British Columbia, the self-proclaimed Adventure Capital of Canada, the family already knew a thing or two about good times outside before they met. Surfing, rock climbing, river rafting, and any other excuse to have fun outside is standard operating procedure for this family. So when the idea came to travel to Africa, they knew that a quick jaunt couldn’t cut it.
So, they decided to spend three months there, taking the girls out of school but keeping them up to date on the curriculum so they didn’t fall behind. A tall order, but a doable one with the right motivation. And for Matt and Soile, giving their daughters a trip to remember was enough motivation to do so. Soile, “The big dream when we met 6 years ago was to travel the world for a year but we were a blended family. It became clear pretty quick that the other parents were not too into that for obvious reasons. So to get them to allow us to go for 3 months was a big ask but they appreciated what this trip would do for the girls and the reluctantly obliged.”
Finding The Right Overlanding Vehicle
Getting a good vehicle might have been the most difficult part of the trip. Thankfully, there is a good option for people who want to take to the dirt roads and camp out in the wild. Matt made a post about it: read about the option they found for an affordable way to get an overlanding vehicle in Africa.
The route they took: Counterclockwise from Cape Town
Taking The Girls Out Of School
There are countless challenges that come along the way with taking a road trip through several countries on a continent that does not have the amenities of the Western world. But perhaps one of the biggest challenges was not what they were doing while in Africa, but what the girls had to do to keep up with their schooling back home.
Three months out of the school system meant that the girls would have to stay up to date on their curriculum to be able to maintain their standing in school back home in Squamish. This meant consistent homework, and for Matt and Soile, the additional hat of Teacher/Tutor to wear among everything else.
But, aside from the girls reluctantly going through their coursework, they managed to stay up to date and continue to do well in school. But the great majority of their education, would come from the day to day challenges that would arise from having to solve problems on the fly.
Facing The Challenges
Just like with any adventure, you can’t really call it one until something goes wrong. Matt even said that it was the biggest challenge of the trip. “From finding an affordable way to rent one,” he said, “to fixing it constantly as we beat it up offroad. And getting it stuck. Blown tires. And getting lost.”
The sand dunes in Namibia stood out for everyone as a major challenge. “We had to dig ourselves out,” said Annika. Or Evelina commented on how often “we would get flat tires and help Papa with the tools.” But, like anything you put your mind to, eventually you learn how to navigate the challenges much more easily and efficient. “Eventually we figured out how to go just about anywhere,” Soile remarked.
Other challenges had to do with just adjusting to life on the road in a foreign country. Two of the girls remarked on how they had to eat almost the same food every day. For many in the west, this would be hard to believe that most of the world lives this way. So just through a daily habit, the girls were learning something about being Human that they may have not otherwise considered by just doing their normal routine back home.
Finding the Animals
As is true with most people visiting Africa, probably the most exciting part of the trip is viewing all the animals. Of course everyone wants to catch the “Big Five” animals (Elephant, Rhinoceros, Leopard, Lion, Buffalo) but some proved to be a bit elusive.
Not the lions, though. One night, the family heard some noises outside and upon further inspection found out that several curious lions were inspecting their new neighbours. As it happened, the lions eventually moved on without incident, yet the adrenaline induced feelings were enough to cause a bit of reflection.
Time to Create
On an extended trip, the girls had a chance to unleash their creativity. Having so much free time meant that (once schoolwork was done, of course) they had ample time to harness their creativity in positive ways. One of the best examples of this was through their video series. Below is just one episode from the road where the girls shot and edited a video blog of their adventures. Now, they not only have inspiration for others to see their trip, they will have their memories to share for the rest of their lives.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ecw58YNXJ5g
If You Go…
I asked each of them to give some insights on the journey to share with people who might be inspired to do a road trip to Africa of their own. Here’s what they said:
If you were only allowed to bring three items (besides food, clothing, and hygiene products), what would you bring?
Matt: Camera with a long lens, a surfboard, international drivers license.
Annika: More books to read, a ukulele, and camera.
Chloe: a book, a hobby you would like to work on.
Eveliina: Music, books, and a buddy
Soile: Surfboards, a phone for navigation and pictures, malaria pills
Would you go again? Why, or why not?
Matt: Yes! Because it is endless and would take a lifetime to see everything.
Annika: Yes! Three months and there is still so much we didn’t see.
Chloe: Yes, to see more animals.
Eveliina: Yes, because it was so cool.
Soile: Yes, unlimited things to see.
What would you do differently?
Matt: Spend more time with the locals.
Annika: Spend more time with the locals.
Chloe: Bring better protected shoes for spikey things.
Eveliina: Drive less and stay longer in cool places.
Soile: Drive less. spend more time in Botswana. spend more time in places and spend more time with locals.
Anything else you’d like to say?
Matt: Glad we went when the kids were small as school is getting more complicated for them and they don’t want to be away from their friends as the become teenagers. There are a few years when they are old enough to get a lot out of the trip but not old enough to be consumed with their life back home.
Annika: If you go, try to see as much as possible!
Chloe: The little moments make the biggest impact.
Eveliina: I liked going when school is not as much of a priority. I think now that I’m in middle school it would be harder.
Soile: Go for an extended trip. takes awhile for everyone to let go of screens, stress and begin to connect. 1 month minimum. 3 months awesome!
