This episode takes you to Niagara Falls with me and Trooper as we share the surprising facts we learned while planning our family trip. We cover what makes the Falls so powerful (including a water-flow comparison you can actually picture), plus the history, engineering, and a few wild stories from the past. We get practical with what to do and see, including our honest take on Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, Prospect Point, and tips for visiting in every season. We also share a few fun extras like black squirrels, nighttime illumination and fireworks, and nearby stops like Buffalo, Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, and Lockport’s “Flight of Five” locks. Whether you’re planning a trip or just dreaming about one, this is the episode for you!

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Planning a family adventure doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In this episode of Ready Set Depart, we walk through how to turn a travel dream into a realistic, memory-making adventure for your family in 2026. From choosing dates and destinations to budgeting, hyping up your kids, and keeping your sanity while you travel, this episode is packed with practical tips you can actually use. You’ll hear real-life examples, planning strategies that lower stress, and simple ways to slow down and enjoy the journey. If you want to plan a family trip that works for your kids, your budget, and your energy, this episode will help you get started.

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Planning a family trip to Disneyland? In this episode of the Ready Set Depart podcast, I’m sharing practical Disneyland tips and tricks to help families plan transportation, choose where to stay, navigate the parks with kids of all ages, and save time once inside. Along the way, you can play a fun “guess the ride” game featuring sound clips from rides at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, with a chance to win travel-themed stickers. From flying into the best airport and using the Disneyland app to stroller tips, Lightning Lane strategy, and mobile ordering food, this episode is packed with real-life advice. If you’re heading to Disneyland with kids and want to feel prepared and relaxed, this is an episode you’ll want to save for your trip.

Remember to send your answers to ready.set.depart@gmail.com

Here is the link to prepaid parking at the Disneyland Resort.

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Holiday air travel can feel like a lot, especially with unpredictable weather, crowded airports, and delays popping up left and right. In this episode, I’m sharing 15 practical tips to help your family fly with a little less stress this season. We’ll talk about everything from choosing the right flight times to packing smarter, using TSA PreCheck, managing cancellations, and keeping kids happy when travel days run long. You’ll also hear simple tricks that make a difference, like monitoring your incoming aircraft and planning for the extra stuff you’ll bring home after the holidays. If you’re hoping for smoother departures, fewer surprises, and a more relaxed trip with your family, this episode is for you.

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Looking for the perfect winter getaway with your family? In this episode, we’re taking you to Leavenworth, Washington, one of the most magical Christmas towns in the country. Just two hours from Seattle, this Bavarian-style mountain village turns into a snowy wonderland filled with twinkling lights, cozy treats, and plenty of kid-approved fun.

We’re sharing everything you need to know for a winter trip to Leavenworth: how to get there (including the train to Icicle Station), what the weather really feels like, how to pack for teens-and-twenties temps, and why staying downtown makes the whole trip easier. You’ll hear Trooper’s take on the sledding hill, our favorite places to eat, must-see spots like the Reindeer Farm, and all the winter activities that make this little town such a hit with families.

If Leavenworth has been on your list, or if you’re just dreaming of a snowy escape, this episode will help you plan a trip full of simple, memorable moments.

Let’s keep making traveling with your family easier, one trip at a time.

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Looking for the perfect gifts for travelers? In this episode of Ready Set Depart, we’re sharing our favorite cozy, clever, and carry-on ready gift ideas for family travelers of all kinds—from road trippers and National Park lovers to parents flying with kids. Whether you’re shopping for a holiday, birthday, or just because, this thoughtful traveler’s gift guide has something useful and fun for everyone on your list. And the best part? We’ve put together a full linked gift guide at readysetdepart.com so you can easily find everything mentioned in this episode—no note-taking required.

Tune in and discover gifts that travelers will actually use (and love), and make your next shopping trip a breeze.

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Packing for a family trip doesn’t have to feel overwhelming! In this episode of Ready Set Depart, I’m sharing my best family travel packing tips, from how to use packing cubes effectively to the simple ziplock bag hack for kids’ outfits that saves time and fights off the morning chaos. You’ll also hear my favorite advice for flying with babies and toddlers, like why you should always pack extra diapers, keep a change of clothes for everyone, and what to stash in your carry-on essentials. We’ll cover everything from road trip luggage vs. airline luggage, when to choose duffle bags or hard-sided suitcases, and how to leave room for souvenirs. Whether you’re preparing for your next family vacation, a quick weekend getaway, or a long-haul adventure, this episode will help you pack smarter, stress less, and feel more confident on the road.

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Dreaming of a tropical getaway? In this episode of Ready Set Depart, we’re taking you to Oahu, Hawaii, the island most people picture when they think of paradise. From Waikiki’s calm waves and Friday night fireworks to hiking Diamond Head, snorkeling Hanauma Bay, and indulging in shave ice or Hula Pie, Oahu has something for every member of the family. We’ll also share fun trivia (including Hawaii’s tongue-twisting state fish), practical travel tips, and some of our favorite family memories from the island. Whether you love history, adventure, or just relaxing on the beach, Oahu is waiting to make your next family trip unforgettable.

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