BootsnAll Travel Community

We're planning a three week trip to Ireland with our 2 year old son. Does anyone have any suggestions for us? We're not aiming to see the whole country, but would like to see Dublin and hunker down someplace in the country and get to know the place. We're also really into walking and hiking, so good trails are a must.

Our little boy is super social, so would a hostel be better then a hotel or guesthouse? Thanks for any help!

I would look into a rental ( or two or three) as slow travel works best for kids. Maybe pick 2 or 3 of your favorite areas.

You might also look at renting a small RV and compare costs as it is a fabulous way to travel with kids ( and no packing and unpacking). http://www.transitionsabroad.com/publications/magazine/...ming_in_europe.shtml

I am not sure how costs work out for your timing, but we will be going to Ireland this coming year ( amongst other places) and love to travel Europe with a child in an RV.

At that age, mine needed a lot of consistency ( nap and eating at similar times daily etc), so these two work good for that and too much moving is exhausting for adults,but really hard on kids. They still need time to play and just be.

They slow you down ( compared to a couple or single), but they also add much to the trip and help you meet lots of people. Go to parks ( which tend to be great in Europe) and you will meet lots of playmates and local parents besides allowing your child to have fun.

The mass transit tends to be great in Europe and kids tend to really enjoy that as we have much less of it in the States.

Less is more with kids...especially a 2 yo ( who are known for their meltdowns). One of the joys of travel with kids is doing ordinary things in extraordinary places, so even simple things like parks, local music or hiking can be great because of the location.

Have fun!