The Big Lap : Family Road Trip Around Australia

In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton speaks with Simone Skinner Smith about her family's adventurous journey around Australia in a caravan. They discuss the preparation and planning involved, the challenges of van life, and the incredible experiences they've had along the way, including swimming with whale sharks and meeting unique characters like Cat Man! Simone shares insights on the importance of the caravanning community, the realities of living off-grid, and the lessons learned during their travels. The conversation highlights the joys and struggles of family travel, making it a relatable and inspiring listen for anyone considering a similar adventure.

Chapters

00:00 The Big Lap Around Australia

02:48 Preparing for the Journey

05:57 The Spark of Adventure

08:45 The Reality of Van Life

11:48 Building Community on the Road

14:47 Wild Encounters and Nature

17:45 The Kids' Experience

20:47 Living Off-Grid

23:50 Memorable Highlights

26:45 Unexpected Adventures

29:47 Lessons Learned

32:44 Family Dynamics on the Road

35:41 Final Thoughts and Advice

Contact Simone

Instagram

@biglappers

Topics we mentioned

Ku-rin-gai Chase National Park

Off The Grid Caravan Hire

Beau and Bunny's Adventures

Strange Catman of the Nullarbor

@catman6701

Connect

Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis

Facebook

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com

Follow, review and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of a Big Lap!

AND... Don't forget your snacks!

Multimedia journalist and host of the Onboard with Cruise Passenger Podcast Rose Kelly joins Sally Stanton for a fun, and myth busting chat about what it’s really like to take your kids on a cruise.

From surf simulators and skydiving tubes to bunk-bed cabins, organic and fresh food dining, to sneaky tips for boarding with kids this is your ultimate guide to cruising as a family, a big family! Yep they also cover why cruising is the perfect solution to traveling with grandparents and more!

Rose is not just a cruise pro, she’s also a mum of two girls, and she shares real-life experiences, clever hacks, and her top picks for kid friendly cruise lines. Whether you're already cruise curious or completely unsure, this episode will make you block out the noise pack your bags and set sail.

Contact Rose

– Writer forcruisepassenger.com.au – Instagram/Facebook:@RoseKellyOfficial

In this episode, we cover:

• Why cruises aren’t just for retirees • What’s really on board: kids clubs with dodgems, mini golf, laser tag & surf simulators • Cabin tips: adjoining rooms, bunks for kids & must-request extras • What to pack (and what to leave at home) when cruising with babies and toddlers • Healthy food onboard – yes, your kids can still get their veggie sticks • What you didn’t know you’d love about cruising (spoiler: it's the crew) • Seasickness, safety, strollers, snacks and surprising perks • How to fast-track boarding with little ones • The truth about cruise ship jails (yep, they exist!) • The joy of unpacking once and visiting multiple destinations • Why cruising might be the most affordable family holiday you’ve never considered

Connect

Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own

Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis

Facebook

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of a cruise!

AND... Don't forget your snacks!

In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton chats with travel writer and tour founder Evie Farrell , the inspiring solo mum who left her corporate job to backpack the world with her daughter.

Evie shares the story behind Mum Pack Travel and how a one-year trip turned into three. From budgeting and packing light to schooling struggles and unforgettable global adventures, this episode is packed with honest advice and motivation for families dreaming of travel.

You'll learn:

• How Evie funded long term travel with a child
• The realities of schooling on the road
• Her top tips for budget friendly family travel
• Where to go for epic experiences with kids (China, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and more!)
• Why Club Med and cruises work brilliantly for parents!
• How travel builds resilience and independence in children

Whether you’re dreaming of a gap year with your kids, planning a family adventure, or just want to know how to travel smarter, this episode will inspire you to take the leap.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:14 The Decision to Travel

06:30 Traveling with a Child

10:16 Education on the Road

14:02 Experiences and Challenges

18:57 Memorable Moments and Lessons Learned

28:25 Affordable Family Living vs. Daycare Costs

30:17 The Ease of Traveling with Kids

32:41 From Backpacker to Influencer: A Journey of Growth

34:35 Creating Community for Solo Moms

36:57 Empowering Women Through Travel

39:32 Travelling to Luxurious Destinations

42:33 Budgeting Tips for Travelers

46:51 Travelling with Picky Eaters

52:11 The Best Age for Backpacking Adventures

54:59 Final Words of Wisdom for Parents

Topics mentioned:

Backyard to Backpack Book

Mum Pack Trips

Royal Caribbean Cruise

Find Evie on Instagram: @mumpacktravel @mumpacktrips Learn about her women and family group trips: mumpacktrips.com

Connect with Sally!

Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or tips of your own via Instagram @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis

Facebook

Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of travel

AND... Don't forget your snacks!