Discover Your Next Childfree Adventure

We spent seven unhurried days on Hawaiʻi’s Big Island for our honeymoon—our first childfree trip as a married couple. From Kona beaches to Volcanoes National Park and Hilo’s rain-soaked beauty, this itinerary is about slow travel, meaningful experiences, and leaving space to simply be.

This 8-day childfree Europe itinerary through Amsterdam, Brussels, and Paris was booked on a whim—and turned out to be far better than expected. From canal cruises and Holocaust history to Christmas markets and waffle-filled day trips, this trip proved that the best destinations aren’t always the ones at the top of your list.

Travel gets plenty of praise for the thrill of being away, but the quiet joy of coming home rarely gets its moment. This reflection explores why the return can be one of the most grounding, restorative parts of the entire journey—especially for childfree travelers who value ease, independence, and intentional living.

Packing for Europe in winter doesn’t have to mean overstuffed luggage. This low-fuss, carry-on-only guide shows exactly what I’m bringing for a 9-day trip through Amsterdam, Belgium, and Paris—warm layers, waterproof shoes, and a simple capsule wardrobe that keeps you comfortable without weighing you down.

We’ve learned that traveling carry-on only isn’t just about avoiding baggage fees—it’s about freedom, flexibility, and stress-free adventures. For childfree travelers like us, packing light means more time to explore, fewer logistics to juggle, and a mindset that lets us focus on the journey, not the luggage.