If you know, you know, right Taggers?!
That smiling family holiday photo.
That perfect Instagram caption.
That “My Whole Life ❤️” post from a sun-drenched beach in Europe.
What you don’t see?
The 17 WhatsApp messages.
The packing lists.
The snacks.
The chargers.
The emergency snacks.
The backup emergency snacks.
The passport panic at 11pm the night before departure.
Family holidays are magical. They’re also an Olympic sport.
As many lucky South African families prepare for the European Summer season, here’s your friendly TAG (Travel Assignment Group) reminder that getting the paperwork right can be just as important as choosing the perfect destination.
TOP 5 FAMILY TRAVEL TIPS FOR EUROPE THIS SUMMER
1️⃣ Passports Before Packing
Before anyone starts debating which sneakers make the cut, check those passports. Many European countries require passports to be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area, & travellers should always check the requirements applicable to their specific destination before travel.
2️⃣ Children’s Travel Documents Matter
While South African regulations have evolved over the years, families travelling internationally with children should always ensure they have all supporting documentation required for both departure & arrival countries.
Where applicable, carry:
✔️ Valid passports
✔️ Birth certificates or parentage documentation
✔️ Consent letters when one parent is not travelling
✔️ Custody or guardianship documents where relevant
Every family’s circumstances differ, so this is one area where your TAG advisor can help guide you before departure.
3️⃣ The New Europe Entry Systems (lots of chatter here)
The European Entry/Exit System (EES) is now being introduced across Europe, meaning some travellers may experience biometric checks, facial scans & additional border processing when entering certain European countries. Travellers should allow extra time at immigration points, particularly during peak summer travel periods.
4️⃣ Don’t Fall For ETIAS Scams!
Despite all the headlines, ETIAS has NOT yet launched.
There is currently no ETIAS application required for South Africans travelling under existing visa requirements & travellers should be cautious of unofficial websites claiming otherwise. The European Union currently indicates ETIAS is expected to begin later in 2026, with further announcements to follow.
5️⃣ Pack Patience Alongside The Passport
The best memories are rarely the perfectly planned ones.
They’re the missed train that became a funny story.
The sibling squabble that somehow became the family joke of the trip.
Mum Check-List. Before airport departure:
✔️ Passports
✔️ Documents
✔️ Chargers
✔️ Medication
✔️ Snacks
✔️ Entertainment for the kids
And most importantly…
✔️ Lower expectations slightly & raise your sense of humour dramatically.
Because one day you’ll miss hearing: “Are we there yet?”
Happy travels, families.