Your Monthly Family Travel Insider
Family Travel News, Top Travel Gear Trends & Deals
Each month, we curate the latest family travel gear trends, need-to-know news, and exclusive deals from trusted brands and affiliate partners. This is your go-to update for smarter, safer, and more connected family travel.
What’s New in the World of Family Travel
Planning family trips this month? We’ve rounded up the latest updates on airport strikes, security rule changes, Schengen border requirements, family-friendly events, exclusive travel deals, and our top gear picks to help you make the most of your travels this month.
EU Border Update: How the New Entry System Is Rolling Out for Families (2025–2026)
The EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) officially began its phased rollout on 12 October 2025, introducing biometric border checks for travellers from the UK and other non-EU countries visiting Schengen-zone destinations.
If you travelled to Europe over October half-term or during winter sun season, you may already have experienced the new process with facial scans and fingerprints instead of passport stamping. And while the system is designed to speed up travel long-term, family travellers have seen a mixed start so far.
What we’re seeing so far
A gradual rollout, not a big-bang switch
Some borders are fully live, others are phasing in. Expect a blend of old and new systems through early 2026.
Extra time is needed, especially for families
Biometric checks add a few minutes per person. Multiply that by parents + kids over 12, carry-ons + snacks + passports = queues can build.
Car and ferry crossings are slower
Families heading to France and Spain by car are reporting the most disruption. Getting everyone out for checks takes longer than airport lanes designed for steady flow.
Once registered, it’s easier
After the first biometric recording, future trips should be quicker, which is helpful if you visit Europe regularly.
This is the bedding-in period. The system isn’t perfect yet, and families should still assume slightly longer border times for now, especially around school holiday peaks.
What to do if you’re travelling soon
- Arrive earlier than usual for ferry ports and Eurotunnel
- Keep each passport handy and don’t pack them deep in a backpack
- Prep kids for facial scans (and explain fingerprints for ages 12+)
- Bring patience and snacks. Always snacks.
Can you pre-register to save time?
The EU has launched a “Travel to Europe” app to help speed things up by letting travellers pre-upload passport details and a facial photo before travel. It’s helpful but not universal yet.
- Rolling out gradually at major airports first (Sweden led the way)
- Not yet widely available at ferry ports or smaller airports
- Fingerprints still happen at the border
Family tip:
If your arrival airport supports it, pre-register within 72 hours of travel, but still expect on-site checks.
Looking ahead to 2026
Full EES coverage is expected by spring 2026, followed by ETIAS authorisation later in the year (a simple online form you’ll complete before travel, similar to the US ESTA).
We’ll keep monitoring the rollout and updating this guide as the system settles in and new family-friendly tools become available.
Other News
Here are other key travel updates across Europe that may affect families planning autumn and winter trips.
Jamaica Travel Update: Hurricane Melissa Disruption
Published: November 2, 2025
Hurricane Melissa has caused temporary disruption across Jamaica, with flight delays, changing schedules, and slower travel on key roads. Montego Bay and Kingston airports are open, but airlines are urging travellers to check flight status before heading out, as operations continue to stabilise. Road conditions are still being cleared in some areas, so journeys between resorts and airports may take longer than usual.
For families travelling to or from Jamaica this week, plan extra time, stay flexible, and avoid airport trips without confirmed departure times. If you need to travel between Montego Bay and Kingston, do so in daylight and book reputable transport. It’s also worth registering for your embassy’s traveller alert system (such as STEP for US visitors) for real-time updates. Resorts and local authorities are supporting guests on the ground, and services are returning to normal. Just keep plans adaptable as the island recovers.
Philippines Travel Update: Storm Kalmaegi (“Tino”) Brings Heavy Rain & Transport Disruption
Published: November 2, 2025
The Philippines is on high alert as Tropical Storm Kalmaegi (locally called Tino) approaches the Visayas and Mindanao regions, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and a risk of flash floods and landslides. Airports and ferry ports in affected areas may experience delays or temporary closures, and local authorities are preparing evacuation orders in low-lying and coastal communities. Rough seas and weather advisories are already in effect along eastern coastlines.
Families travelling to or within the Philippines this week should monitor PAGASA updates, stay in contact with airlines and ferry operators, and prepare for possible changes to travel plans. Avoid coastal and mountain routes, allow extra time for airport transfers, and follow local safety guidance. If you’re travelling with young children, plan for potential delays, have essentials easily accessible, and consider rescheduling non-essential travel in directly affected regions until conditions improve.
U.S. Airport Delays Continue Amid Government Shutdown
Published: November 2, 2025
Families travelling through U.S. airports are facing ongoing disruption as the federal government shutdown stretches into its second month. Staffing shortages in air-traffic control have led to longer queues, flight delays, and occasional ground-stops at major hubs including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, and Orlando. While many flights are still running, schedules remain unpredictable and airlines are urging passengers to allow extra time and monitor flight status closely.
For families flying into, out of, or connecting through the U.S., build in longer layovers, pack essentials in hand luggage, and be prepared for timetable changes, especially during school-holiday peaks. Travellers with young children may want to avoid tight connections or late-night flights where possible. This situation is fluid, so check airline apps and airport updates regularly, and ensure your travel insurance covers delays and missed connections.
Thailand Remains Open During National Mourning
Published: November 2, 2025
Thailand has entered a formal mourning period following the passing of Queen Sirikit in late October 2025. While the country is observing a respectful tone — particularly in Bangkok and around royal sites — tourism remains fully open. Hotels, beaches, transport, and attractions across Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai and the islands continue to operate normally, with only short-term closures at select royal landmarks during ceremonies.
For families, this means travel plans can proceed as usual. Expect a slightly more subdued mood in some public spaces, and dress modestly when visiting temples or royal memorials (dark or neutral clothing recommended for city temple days, casual resort wear remains fine in beach areas). No curfews or major restrictions are in place, and children are not expected to dress formally. Simply follow local cues and enjoy Thailand’s warm and welcoming hospitality.
Wizz Air to Introduce “Wizz Class” Extra-Space Seats + Unlimited Flight Pass
Published: November 2, 2025
From December 2025, Wizz Air will launch a new “Wizz Class” option allowing travellers to pay extra to keep the middle seat empty. This will be a welcome boost in comfort on busy European routes. Initially available from hubs including London, Rome, Budapest, Bucharest and Warsaw, the upgrade gives families and couples extra elbow room without moving into business-class price territory. Wizz is also rolling out lightweight onboard Wi-Fi for messaging and entertainment on select aircraft.
The airline is relaunching its “All You Can Fly” annual pass as well, offering unlimited flights across its network for €499 plus a small booking fee. With nearly 950 routes across Europe, this could be a clever option for long-term travelling families, digital nomads, or frequent weekend explorers, though availability is capped and popular school-holiday dates may fill fast. Budget airlines are stepping up comfort and flexibility, and families flying Wizz next year will have more choice than ever.
Exclusive Family Travel Deals
Note: Some of the links in this section are affiliate links. That means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we genuinely believe are helpful for family travel.
TUI
Booking.com
Jet2holidays
Top Travel Gear Updates
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We only recommend gear we’ve personally tested or would genuinely use as a traveling family.
What’s Hot This Month: October’s top travel gear picks are all about clever design and real-life functionality. Gear that saves space, keeps kids comfortable, and helps parents stay sane in the summer heat.
BABY
Yogasleep Hushh Portable White Noise Machine
Back when ours were babies, we never went anywhere without Ewan the Sheep — the white noise was the only thing that would get them to sleep in unfamiliar environments! But when you’re on the road full-time or traveling light, an extra cuddly toy isn’t always practical. That’s why we think the Yogasleep Hushh Portable White Noise Machine is such a great option for parents traveling with little ones. It’s tiny enough to slip into a backpack or cabin bag, clips easily onto a stroller or car seat, and gives you three soothing sound options to help block out the chaos of airports, hotels, or busy streets. If we had a baby again (and we’re definitely not planning on that!), this would definitely be in our travel bag.
TODDLER (1-3 Years)
Bright Starts Pop N Sit
We still remember the struggle of traveling with two toddlers. Finding practical solutions for feeding on the go was always tricky, which is why we think the Bright Starts Pop N Sit is such a brilliant option for parents with little ones. It’s lightweight, folds down compactly to fit in a backpack or cabin bag, and comes with its own carry case. What we really love is its three-in-one design. It works as a floor seat, a feeding seat with a removable tray, or a toddler booster. Plus, the dishwasher-safe tray and machine-washable seat pad make clean-up on the road so much easier. If we were back in those toddler-traveling days, this would absolutely be one of our go-to essentials.
KIDS (4-12 Years)
Lusso Gear Airplane Tray Cover
If you’ve ever spent a plane journey retrieving toys, crayons, and snacks from under the seats while your kids slowly dismantle their little corner of the cabin, you’ll understand why we love this one. The Lusso Gear Airplane Tray Cover is designed to keep everything in one place, turning your child’s tray table into a clean, organized activity zone. It works as a lap desk, tablet holder, and storage space all in one and keeps colouring books, snacks, and travel toys within easy reach. We also love that it helps keep things hygienic by covering the tray table itself (because let’s be honest, no-ones cleaning those tray tables in the !). It folds or rolls up small enough to slip into a backpack, and the fun patterns make it something kids actually want to use.
TEENS (13 – 17 Years)
Monopoly Deal Card Game
This one is a huge favourite for us! We play the Monopoly Deal Card Game with our two kids (ages 8 and 10) at least three or four times a week, and it’s still just as much fun as the first time we played. It’s fast-paced, competitive, and a brilliant way to get everyone away from screens for an hour or two while actually spending time together.
PARENTS
EcoHub Compression Packing Cubes
Packing for a family trip can feel like a military operation. When you’re trying to fit everyone’s clothes, shoes, and “essential” extras into just a few bags, space-saving is everything. That’s why we swear by the EcoHub Compression Packing Cubes. We’ve been using them for over 18 months now, and the zips are still holding strong. If you want to see exactly why we rate them so highly, we’ve put together a full review.
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We’re always on the lookout for gear that makes family travel easier (and more fun). These fresh finds are on our radar this month, and here’s why we think they’re worth knowing about.