From late 2025, two new systems, EES and ETIAS, will change how families enter and leave Europe’s Schengen Zone. These are part of a wider set of EU travel changes for UK and US families, designed to modernise border control.

Both have been in the works for years, but for most travellers, they mean extra steps and new checks, especially during the first few months after launch.

For families, that matters. It means thinking ahead about paperwork, airport timing, and how to keep everyone calm and comfortable while navigating an unfamiliar process.

This guide explains ETIAS vs EES in plain English and answers the questions parents are already asking, like:

• Will these new systems make travelling with kids harder?
• Will we still be able to visit Europe visa-free?
• Do our children need to register fingerprints?
• How long before our trip do we need to apply for ETIAS?
• And what happens if we stay in Europe for more than 90 days?

By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what to expect at the border, how to prepare, and how both systems work together so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying your trip.

Why Families Are Feeling Confused

For many UK families, travel to Europe already feels different post-Brexit, and this next round of EU border changes adds even more uncertainty.

Meanwhile, U.S. families, who’ve long enjoyed visa-free entry to Europe, are now hearing about both ETIAS and EES and wondering how these new systems will affect their future trips. Will it be as simple as their current travel routine, or will it mean new forms, fees, and checks at the border?

In short, both groups want the same thing:

• Clear, reliable information
• Smooth border processing
• And the confidence that their family holiday will go as planned.

That’s exactly what this Schengen border rules for families guide is here to deliver.

EES and ETIAS: Understanding the Two Systems

Two new systems, EES (Entry/Exit System) and ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System), are being introduced at different times. They sound similar but serve different purposes.

Think of it like this:

• EES is what happens when you arrive at the border.
• ETIAS is what happens before you travel.

If you’ve ever searched “ETIAS vs EES — what’s the difference?”, this is the clear breakdown you need.

What Is EES? (Entry/Exit System)

EES replaces the old system of stamping passports when you enter or leave Europe’s Schengen zone (the group of 29 countries that share open internal borders).

Instead of a stamp, your details will be recorded digitally, and for most adults, that includes:

• A facial photo taken at a border kiosk, and
• Fingerprints (for everyone aged 12 and over).

This only needs to be done once. The next time you visit, your information is checked automatically.

What families need to know:

• The first time you use it will take longer, especially for families with children, because everyone must register separately.
• Children under 12 don’t need fingerprints, just a quick photo.
• Queues are likely at airports, ferry ports, and even when crossing by car into countries like France and Spain.
• Once you’re registered, future trips should be faster for the next three years.

It’s worth noting that the EU says EES will “streamline travel,” but in the early months, it’s more likely to slow things down as staff and travellers adapt.

What Is ETIAS? (European Travel Information and Authorisation System)

ETIAS is a completely separate system that’s expected to launch in 2026, once EES is running smoothly.

It’s not a visa, but it’s similar to the U.S. ESTA. It’s an online pre-travel authorisation for visitors who don’t need a visa for short stays.

You’ll fill out a quick online form, pay €20 per adult, and usually get approval within minutes. Once approved, it’s valid for three years (or until your passport expires).
Travellers under 18 or over 70 won’t pay the fee.

What families need to know:

• You’ll need to complete one application per traveller, including children.
• It’s best to apply a week or two before your trip in case extra information is requested.
• ETIAS doesn’t replace border checks; it simply confirms that you’re cleared to travel before you arrive.

How They Work Together

Here’s how a typical trip will look once both systems are in place:

1. Before travel: You apply for ETIAS online and get approved.
2. At the border: You use EES for the biometric check (photo and fingerprints).
3. During your stay – Both systems track your entry and exit digitally to enforce the 90-days-in-180 rule.

You’ll still be able to travel visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. That part isn’t changing.
The difference is that now, Europe will have a digital record of exactly when you enter and leave.

What Families Should Expect

For most families, the new border systems won’t stop you from travelling, but they will change how you move through airports and land borders, especially the first time you use them.
Here’s what the new process will actually look and feel like.

1. Your First Trip After EES Launch

Let’s say you’re flying from London to Paris, New York to Rome, or Manchester to Malaga.
When you arrive in Europe for the first time after October 2025, you’ll be directed to a biometric kiosk.

Each adult (and every child over 12) will:

• Scan their passport
• Look into a camera for a quick photo
• Place their fingertips on a small glass pad

It’s straightforward but can take a little longer than a stamp, particularly if multiple family members need to go through one at a time. Expect the first visit to take an extra 20–40 minutes at busy times while everyone registers.

Tip: If travelling with kids, prepare them for what’s coming. Let them know it’s just like “taking a photo at the airport.”

2. Driving or Ferry Crossings into Europe

If you’re crossing into France or Spain by car or ferry (from Dover, Plymouth, or Portsmouth), you’ll also use EES, but these borders may take longer to adapt.

Families who drive should:

• Build in an extra hour for border formalities.
• Make sure everyone’s passports are easily reachable.
• Pack snacks, water, and entertainment for kids in case of long queues at the terminal.

Border officials in Calais and Bilbao are expected to run mixed systems at first (manual + digital), which may slow processing during the initial rollout period.

3. The First Time You Use ETIAS (from 2026)

When ETIAS goes live, you’ll need to apply online before your trip.
The process is simple but worth doing early. You’ll:

• Fill out an online form (passport details, address, security questions)
• Pay €20 per adult
• Wait for approval (usually instant, but allow up to 96 hours)

Once approved, the authorisation links automatically to your passport. There’s nothing to print or carry.

Tip: Create a digital folder for your family’s travel documents (passports, insurance, ETIAS confirmations) so you can access everything quickly when booking flights or accommodation.

How Long Will It All Take?

No one knows the exact timings yet, but early testing in Sweden, Italy, and Portugal suggests:

• First-time EES registration: ~20–40 minutes at major airports
• Future entries (already registered): 5–10 minutes
• ETIAS application: 10 minutes online + a few minutes for approval

It’s not overly dramatic (in theory), but it is more steps. If you’re connecting flights or travelling during school holidays, it’s best to add a buffer of at least an hour to your arrival plans.

What to Expect from Border Staff

Most border agents understand that families are nervous. You’ll see signs and guidance in English, and in larger airports, staff will help guide families with young children through the process.

But at smaller ports or regional airports, patience will go a long way. The early months of any new system are usually messy, so managing expectations can make a big difference when travelling with little ones.

Time-Saving Tips for Families

When you’re managing passports, hand luggage, snacks, and small humans, every extra minute at the border counts.
Here’s how to make your journey smoother when the new EU systems take effect.

1. Apply Early (When ETIAS Goes Live)

• Don’t leave it to the week before your trip. Apply for ETIAS at least two weeks ahead once the system launches in 2026.
• Keep a shared digital folder (Google Drive, Dropbox, or your phone’s Files app) with your family’s passport scans and ETIAS confirmations. It saves last-minute scrambles at check-in.
• Remember: ETIAS lasts three years, so you can reuse it for multiple holidays.

2. Plan for the First EES Registration to Take Longer

• The first time your family enters Europe after October 2025 will take the longest.
• Build extra buffer time into arrival plans, especially if you’re connecting to another flight, onward train, or collecting hire cars
• Keep kids’ passports in one wallet, ready for each scan.
• Travelling with children under 12? Remind them it’s just a quick “photo like at school picture day.”

3. Use Airline and Border Apps

• Some countries (like Sweden, Portugal, Italy, Hungary, and Greece) will offer the EES pre-registration app: use it if available to cut queue time.
• Always download your airline’s app (EasyJet, Ryanair, BA, Delta, etc.) for live gate changes and rebooking options if delays cascade.
• For US travellers, the Mobile Passport Control app may still speed up the return leg into the States.

4. Choose Flights Strategically

• Avoid arrivals that coincide with school-holiday peaks (Saturday morning flights into Spain, for example).
• Early morning or late evening flights often have shorter immigration queues.
• If connecting in Europe, choose longer layovers during the first EES months (2 hours minimum).

5. Check Live Border Updates

• Before leaving home, look up Aena (Spain), Aeroports de Paris, or Fraport (Germany) updates for expected wait times.
• In the UK, ferry operators like DFDS and Brittany Ferries post real-time port alerts.
• Following your airline or airport’s Twitter/X feed can give faster updates than email notifications.

6. Pack for Delays the Family Way

• Have snacks, refillable bottles, and small distractions ready (card games, audiobooks, downloaded shows).
• Keep a lightweight power bank handy; phone batteries drain quickly when queuing or using travel apps.
• Carry a small zip-lock pouch with travel essentials: kids’ medication, wipes, or ear defenders if noise triggers stress.

7. Check Travel Insurance Coverage

• Confirm your policy covers delays, cancellations, and missed connections due to border issues.
• Some insurers now specify coverage for “government system disruptions.” It’s worth scanning the fine print.
• If you travel frequently, consider annual multi-trip family insurance for peace of mind.

8. Keep Perspective

The first few months of any new system are rarely smooth. Queues will build, staff will still be learning, and travellers will get frustrated, and that’s normal. But once you’ve done it once, you’ll know exactly what to expect next time.

Europe isn’t becoming harder to visit; it’s just adding an extra layer of admin. If you plan ahead, keep your documents ready, and allow a bit more time, you’ll still have the family trip you’ve been dreaming about, just with a few more checkpoints along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

The post ETIAS vs EES Explained: What UK Families Need to Know Before Travelling to Europe appeared first on Slow Traveling Family.

That’s why we built our free Road Trip Fuel Cost Calculator, designed especially for families who want to plan smarter, save money, and avoid mid-journey surprises.

Why Fuel Cost Planning Matters for Families

When you’re traveling as a family, expenses add up fast: accommodation, activities, food, insurance, and, of course, fuel. Unlike other costs, fuel prices change by country and even by region, making it tricky to estimate your total road trip budget.

For example:

• In France, petrol can cost €1.80 per litre
• Cross into Spain, and it might drop to €1.55
• Drive through Italy, and it can spike again

If you’re crossing multiple countries, these price changes can make a huge difference to your total costs. That’s before you factor in driving longer distances with kids, luggage, and maybe even bikes or camping gear in the back.

Our free calculator solves this problem in seconds by using live fuel price data across Europe. We built it to help you budget more accurately before you go.

How to Use the Free Road Trip Fuel Cost Calculator

Using the tool takes less than 30 seconds:

1. Choose your currency
   Perfect for planning in GBP, EUR, or USD.
2. Enter your start and destination
   Whether you’re driving from London to Barcelona or Amsterdam to Lake Como, just enter the locations (in our beta version, you will need to enter the city and country, e.g., London, UK; Madrid, Spain; Lake Como, Italy)
3. Add your car’s fuel efficiency
   Enter your MPG or L/100km, depending on your preference. If you’re unsure, the following guestimates might help:

4. Select your fuel type
   Petrol or diesel — the calculator handles both.
5. Get instant fuel cost estimates
   The calculator will automatically factor in current fuel prices per country.

Packing for a Family Trip Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful

After years of traveling full-time with kids, we’ve fine-tuned what actually gets used (and what just takes up space).

Want our exact Family Packing List?

It’s printable, organized by carry-on vs hold luggage, and tailored for parents who want to travel smart, not just light.

Download it free and make packing one less thing to worry about.

Top Tips to Save Money on Fuel During Your Trip

Planning ahead is only part of the story. The way you drive and prepare can make a big difference too. Here are some of our favourite fuel-saving tips for families:

1. Compare Fuel Prices Before You Fill Up

Fuel prices can vary significantly between motorway service stations, supermarkets, and smaller local garages — sometimes by €0.20–€0.30 per litre. On long family road trips, those savings add up quickly.

Before setting off, check fuel prices along your planned route using one of these tools:

• PetrolPrices.com (UK) — Compare prices at thousands of stations, filter by fuel type, and plan your cheapest refuel stops.
• GasBuddy (US & Canada) — Uses live, crowd-sourced price data and even helps you predict price changes.
• Fuel Flash (Europe) — Ideal for cross-border trips, showing real-time prices for stations in multiple countries.

We recommend checking prices before crossing country borders. For example, filling up in Spain could be €15–€20 cheaper per tank than waiting until you reach France. Planning refuels ahead of time ensures you’re not forced to stop at overpriced motorway stations when you’re low on fuel.

2. Drive Smarter for Better Efficiency

How you drive has a big impact on fuel consumption, especially on long motorway journeys. By making a few simple adjustments, you can improve efficiency by 10–15%, which could save £10–£20 per tank on a family road trip.

Key techniques to try:

• Accelerate gently → Fast starts burn more fuel. Aim for smooth, gradual acceleration.
• Stick to steady speeds → Driving at 65mph instead of 75mph can reduce fuel use by up to 15%.
• Avoid heavy braking → Anticipate traffic ahead, coast where possible, and keep a safe distance to avoid constant stop-starts.
• Use cruise control on motorways → Keeps your speed consistent and reduces unnecessary fuel burn.

Air resistance increases exponentially at higher speeds. On long stretches, slowing down by just 5mph can noticeably reduce fuel consumption, especially when driving a fully loaded family car.

3. Lighten Your Load

Every extra kilo in your car makes the engine work harder, which means higher fuel consumption. On long family road trips, a fully loaded car can increase fuel usage by up to 5–8%. Packing smarter not only saves fuel but also makes for a more comfortable drive.

How to pack efficiently:

• Prioritise essentials → Take only what you know you’ll need. Use packing cubes to stay organised and compact.
• Avoid heavy roof loads → Roof boxes, bike racks, and cargo carriers increase drag and reduce fuel efficiency. If you need one, choose one that balances aerodynamic design with the amount of storage space your family needs and remove it when not in use.
• Rearrange weight smartly → Distribute items evenly to avoid overloading one side, which can affect handling and fuel use.
• Check your boot before you go → Many families carry extra “just in case” items but never use them. Removing even 20kg can make a difference on long drives.

If you’re planning an extended trip, consider investing in lightweight, packable travel gear. For example, compact camping chairs, ultralight strollers, or collapsible storage boxes, all of which save both space and fuel.

4. Check Your Tyres

Driving with under-inflated tyres makes your car work harder, which increases fuel consumption by up to 3% and puts extra wear on your tyres. On a long family road trip, that can mean paying more for fuel and shortening your tyre lifespan.

Before setting off, make tyre checks part of your prep:

• Check pressures when tyres are cold → Heat from driving can give false readings.
• Use your car manual’s recommended PSI → Often displayed on a sticker inside the driver’s door or fuel flap.
• Don’t forget the spare → If you’re carrying one, make sure it’s road-ready too.
• Recheck mid-trip → Especially important if you’re driving across countries with varying temperatures, which can affect tyre pressure.

If your car is fully loaded with passengers, luggage, and gear, increase your tyre pressure slightly within the manufacturer’s safe range. This reduces rolling resistance, improves fuel efficiency, and keeps handling stable on motorways.

5. Plan Your Route Strategically

Taking the most direct route isn’t always the most fuel-efficient, especially on long family road trips. Using smart route planning can reduce driving time and cut fuel costs.

How to plan smarter:

• Use reliable route planners → Tools like Google Maps and ViaMichelin can help you choose routes with fewer hills, less traffic, and more efficient driving speeds.
• Avoid peak travel times → Sitting in traffic burns fuel quickly. Plan departures early in the morning or midweek when roads are quieter.
• Combine stops → Plan fuel stops, rest breaks, and sightseeing together to avoid unnecessary detours.
• Download offline maps → Essential when driving in remote areas or crossing borders where mobile data isn’t reliable.

Some navigation apps now offer eco-routing features, automatically suggesting the route with the lowest fuel consumption based on real-time data. Activating this option can make a noticeable difference on longer journeys.

Bonus: Essential Family Road Trip Gear

Want to make your journey smoother, safer, and cheaper? Here are some tried-and-tested family travel essentials we personally recommend:

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Plan Smarter, Travel Farther

Family road trips are some of the most memorable adventures you’ll ever take, but unexpected fuel costs can easily derail your budget.

With our free Road Trip Fuel Cost Calculator, you can plan with confidence, stay on budget, and spend more on what really matters: creating unforgettable memories together.

Frequently Asked Questions

The post How to Plan Your Family Road Trip Fuel Costs (Free Calculator Inside) appeared first on Slow Traveling Family.