Snacks and Suitcases

Sally Stanton
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Planning a family holiday should be exciting… but let’s be honest, it can also be overwhelming. From restless kids on long haul flights to finding the perfect family friendly destination, the struggle is real. That’s where Snacks and Suitcases comes in. Hosted by TV presenter, travel enthusiast, and mum Sally Stanton, this podcast dives into the joys and challenges of travelling with kids. Each episode, Sally chats with travel experts, seasoned parents, industry insiders, and even the occasional celebrity, to bring you practical tips, destination inspiration, and plenty of honest, laugh out loud moments. Whether you’re dreaming of a snow trip, theme park adventure, or tropical escape, Snacks and Suitcases is here to make travelling with kids a little less chaotic and a lot more fun. So let’s take off, because the world is waiting. And… so are the kids!

  1. 12/08/2025

    Skiing Club Med Hokkaido with Kids: Best Family Friendly Ski Resorts in Japan

    This is the final Ski Japan episode and final episode of Snacks and Suitcases for the season.  Find out how a Club Med all inclusive ski trip in Hokkaido can be the easiest and best way to experience a ski trip with the family! Skiing and snowboarding in Japan is truly something special and Hokkaido is one of the best places in the world for families. In this final episode of the year, Sally chats with Michelle Davies from Club Med Pacific about what makes Club Med Hokkaido such an easy and memorable ski holiday with kids. We look at the different Club Med resorts including Kiroro Grand for little ones, Kiroro Peak for teens, and Tomamu for first time skiers with the bonus of the amazing Mina Mina Waterpark. Michelle also shares how much snow Hokkaido gets each season (and it's a whopping amount!) and why the long ski season makes planning around school holidays so simple. There is also time for a little Christmas spirit as Sally remembers her own white Christmas in Canada and we hear favourite festive memories from all our Ski Japan guests. It is the final episode of Snacks and Suitcases for the year and the perfect way to finish the Ski Japan series. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ski Japan Series 01:53 Exploring Club Med Resorts in Hokkaido 10:33 Choosing the Right Resort for Families 12:23 Celebrating Christmas in Japanese Ski Resorts 14:49 Booking Tips for Ski Holidays 17:09 Reflections on a White Christmas Topics We Mentioned Club Med Snow Tomamu Sahoro Kiroro Peak Kiroro Grand Club Med France Niseko United Whistler Blackomb  Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend! AND... Don't forget your snacks! Merry Christmas!

    24 min

  2. 12/01/2025

    Skiing Niseko with Kids: Best family friendly ski resorts in Japan

    This is the 2nd episode in the Ski Japan Series and it’s all about the snowiest and fluffiest, ski destination in Japan… Niseko! In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton sits down with long-time Niseko devotee Christie Hampton, who has spent more than 20 winters in Japan’s most famous ski town. If you’re dreaming of that light, dry, ridiculously fluffy Hokkaido powder (that you simply cannot get in Australia), this is your ultimate family guide to skiing Niseko. Plus Christie also shares why the ski resorts in Rusutsu and Furano are also fantastic options. Christie first visited Niseko decades ago, long before it blew up into the global ski phenomenon it is today. Now, she returns every single Japanese winter with her family. Her kids have been skiing that powder since they were two years old, so she is a bona fide expert! Sally and Christie cover: Why Niseko continues to win “Best Ski Resort in Japan” year after year What first-timers need to know about weather, gear, goggles and the cold Whether Niseko is comfortable for babies and toddlers Why booking ski school (and pretty much everything possible) early is essential Where to eat, shop and explore beyond the slopes What makes Furano and Rusutsu worth adding to your itinerary Onsens (yes, we talk about mixed onsens!) and the magic of Japanese snow culture Day trip ideas, terrain advice. Christie gives a refreshingly honest, super helpful breakdown of what makes Niseko special and why so many families return year after year. If you’re tossing up whether to make Japan your next snow holiday… this episode will absolutely seal the deal. Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to Niseko: A Family Ski Paradise 03:01 The Allure of Niseko's Powder Snow 06:01 Skiing in Hokkaido: Comparing Resorts 10:37 Christie's Journey: From Visitor to Local 11:44 Exploring Other Hokkaido Resorts 15:33 Why Niseko is the Best Ski Area in Japan 22:01 The Changing Face of Niseko 25:19 Budget-Friendly Tips for Families 26:05 Getting Around Niseko: Transportation Tips 27:57 Activities for Non-Skiers: Food and Onsens 30:52 Exploring Onsen Culture in Japan 32:45 Family-Friendly Activities in Niseko 34:59 Day Trips and Local Attractions 37:44 Ski School Insights for Kids 42:02 Winter Weather and Clothing Essentials 48:04 Packing Tips for a Niseko Trip 49:42 Shopping and Supermarket Experiences 52:10 Quickfire Questions about Niseko   Topics  we mentioned Furano Ski Resort Rusutsu Rhythm Japan Niseko United Grand Hotel Onsen Rhythm Rides Moiwa Lodge Ren Izakaya Gyu Bar   Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend! AND... Don't forget your snacks or your skis!

    56 min

  3. 11/24/2025

    Skiing Honshu with Kids: Best Family Friendly Ski Resorts in Japan

    This is the first of three snowy episodes all about skiing in Japan. If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable family ski trip to Japan, this episode is your go to guide to exploring Honshu with kids. Niseko might get all the powder hype, but Honshu has its own incredible magic. Culture filled villages, family friendly resorts and that perfect amount of adventure and charm that families love.  And the best part? Some of Honshu’s top ski spots are just a quick hop, skip and Shinkansen ride from Tokyo. Sally is joined by BBC Travel Reporter Carmen Roberts who spent eight years living, working and skiing in Japan. Carmen’s insider knowledge of family travel, easy day trip resorts, and hidden gem ski areas is very impressive. In this episode Carmen shares her top family friendly ski resorts in Honshu including: • Gala Yuzawa. The famous Shinkansen to Ski resort you can reach directly from Tokyo. • Hakuba. A huge resort area with something for every level of skier. • Nozawa Onsen. A beautiful traditional village known for incredible snow and natural hot springs. • Myoko Kogen. A favourite for families who want great snow without the big crowds (for now). They also chat about the best off-snow activities for the whole family including onsens (and onsen family etiquette) the adorable Snow Monkeys, what to pack for your family ski trip and when to travel for the best snow and the least crowds. If you are planning a family ski holiday to Japan this episode is packed with practical travel tips, resort advice, and expert insights to make your next snowy adventure unforgettable. Follow @carmenroberts_travels Ski Resorts  We Mentioned: Gala Yuzawa https://gala.co.jp/en/winter/ Hakuba https://hakuba.com/ Nozawa Onsen https://en.nozawaski.com/ Myoko Kogen https://myokoskiresort.com/ Ishiuchi https://ishiuchi.or.jp/winter/ Kagura/Naeba and Prince Hotel https://www.princehotels.com/en/ski/kagura/ Lotte Arai  https://www.lottehotel.com/arai-resort/en   Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend! AND... Don't forget your onsen etiquette!

    47 min

  4. 11/17/2025

    Travel Diaries for Kids: Screen Free Fun with My Big Adventure

    My Big Adventure: The Travel Diaries Making Screen-Free Fun Easy with Kirstin Edwards Looking for a screen-free activity your kids will actually get excited about on the plane, in the car or at the airport? Want something educational, fun and destination specific to build anticipation before a big trip? In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, Sally chats with Kirstin Edwards, the Melbourne mum and creator behind My Big Adventure Travel Diaries, the beautifully designed, activity packed journals helping kids learn about the world before they even take off. These aren’t your average travel journals. Each diary is tailored to a specific country, filled with fun facts, cultural insights, challenges, colouring and a digital element that can help kids learn the local language… PLUS a customisable airline ticket so parents can reveal a surprise trip in the cutest way possible. Whether you’re heading to Bali, Japan, New Zealand, Thailand or Fiji, there’s a diary that turns your child's trip into a real life adventure. Kirstin shares how the idea came to life, her own childhood dreams of travel, why she believes every family trip can be educational, and how these diaries help kids stay engaged without relying on screens. She also shares hidden gems from her last New Zealand South island escape. AND gives us a special travel tip you may NEVER have heard before! This episode is for you if you want to: • keep kids busy and learning on long flights • build excitement before your holiday • travel screen-free without meltdowns • create meaningful keepsakes from your adventures Get your glue sticks and glitter ready (but not your coloured pens IYKYK). Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Travel with Kids 02:59 Creating Engaging Travel Diaries 05:58 Kirsten's Journey and Background 09:02 Educational Value of Travel Diaries 12:07 Interactive Features and Activities 15:04 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Tricks 18:04 Popular Destinations and Future Plans 21:05 Balancing Fun and Education in Travel 24:03 Inspiration and Idea Generation 28:56 Traveling with Kids: Challenges and Creativity 32:12 Family-Friendly Destinations: Exploring Options 35:36 Travel Tips: Preparing for Flights with Kids 39:28 Accommodation Strategies: Booking for Convenience 41:01 New Zealand Adventures: Hidden Gems and Activities 50:22 Unique Travel Tips: Capturing Family Memories 52:01 Future Travel Plans: Exploring New Destinations   Follow @my_big_adventure_ Topics  we mentioned Novak Djokovic’s Regenesis https://www.regenesis.studio/ NZ Queenstown Accommodation:  https://www.platinumqueenstown.co.nz/ Kestrell nest https://www.highfieldfarmwoodland.com/kestrel-nest-ecohut/ Silver River Stargazing Tours https://silverriverstargazing.com/ Imoova https://www.imoova.com/en   Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com    Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend! AND... Don't forget some coloured ink fades!

    54 min

  5. 11/10/2025

    Flying with Babies and Mum life in India: Tips and stories to survive flying with kids from a well travelled Mum.

    Flying with kids and mum life in India Explosive poos, baby spews, crying toddlers, and cramped plane seats… sound familiar? In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton dives into the realities of flying with babies and young kids. Joined by her friend Rachel McCallum, an Australian expat living in India, the two share and compare their own stories of flying with little ones. From chaotic long-haul flights to moments of unexpected calm, they explore what actually helps make air travel with kids easier and more enjoyable. You’ll hear practical tips on packing, managing sleep and in-flight meals, and staying calm when things don’t go to plan. Rachel also gives a glimpse into her vibrant life as a mum raising two boys in India, surrounded by colour, culture, and adventure. So once again grab your snacks, secure that tray table, and prepare for take-off, this one’s all about keeping your cool at 30,000 feet!   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Traveling with Kids 01:03 Expert Insights from Rachel McCullen 05:12 Life as an Expat in India 09:50 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Experiences 14:11 Navigating Flights with Young Children 21:12 Final Thoughts on Family Travel 23:01 Traveling with Kids: The Early Years 24:35 The Benefits of Traveling with Children 25:40 Flying with Babies: Tips and Tricks 29:14 Navigating Long Flights with Kids 30:29 Essential Packing for Family Travel 32:01 Snacks and Entertainment on Flights 36:19 Traveling with Car Seats and Strollers 39:09 Cultural Experiences and Multicultural Upbringing 41:31 Handling Flight Challenges and Passenger Reactions 44:24 The Headphone Dilemma 48:59 Navigating Long-Haul Flights 51:32 Jet Lag Strategies for Kids 55:45 Handling Multiple Children on Flights 58:41 Coping with Takeoff and Landing Screams 01:00:28 Final Thoughts on Flying with Kids Follow @Rachmcc84 Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend! AND... Don't forget your snacks!

    1h 5m

  6. 11/03/2025

    Hamish Blake: Family Adventures, Biking Holidays and Happy Travel Mishaps

    It's Hamish Blake In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, host Sally Stanton sits down with one of Australia’s biggest stars, Hamish Blake. Known for his humour, warmth and adventurous spirit, Hamish opens up about his secret travel-agent skills, his love for cycling holidays with his kids and why he believes every family trip should leave room for a few happy mishaps. From impromptu terrifying cliff climbs in Europe to sharing the spirit of dance with school kids in Uganda, Hamish shares what he loves about travelling with his family in the big wide world. PLUS Hamish answers a few fun travel (and Lego) questions straight from kids. This feel-good chat will inspire you to embrace adventure, laugh through the chaos, and maybe even start a few travel traditions of your own. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hamish Blake 01:56 Travel Planning and Family Adventures 04:49 Embracing Mishaps on Family Trips 06:24 Experiences in Africa and Education 10:13 Cultural Insights from Uganda 12:03 Preparing for Travel with Kids 13:50 Cycling Adventures: A Family Tradition 20:14 The Joy of Family Bike Rides 23:28 Exploring New Destinations 28:33 Future Cycling Plans and Adventures 31:55 The Benefits of Cycling Holidays 34:31 Navigating Teenage Travel 38:40 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Tricks 41:55 Fan Questions and Fun Facts 45:36 Closing Thoughts and Final Tips   Bike tours (not affiliated) https://www.artofbicycletrips.com/ https://www.centralcycletrail.co.nz/ https://www.australiancycletours.com.au/cycling-themes/family-friendly https://biketourjapan.com/shimanami-kaido-setouchi-tour/ Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com    Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow travel loving friend! AND... Don't forget your snacks!

    49 min

  7. 10/29/2025 · BONUS

    Bite Sized: Nara with Kids & How to Avoid Tummy Troubles in Japan

    Surprise! This is a bite-sized BONUS episode of Snacks and Suitcases! Host Sally Stanton continues her chat with Jo McGregor from The Tokyo Chapter. This time diving into Nara, Japan’s charming town filled with friendly bowing deer, ancient temples, and family-friendly adventures. But it’s not all temples and rice crackers! Sally and Jo also unpack a topic every travelling parent can relate to…. tummy troubles on the road (yes, constipation)! They share practical tips for keeping everyone feeling great while eating abroad, from finding veggies in Japan to what to pack just in case. Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome to Snacks and Suitcases: Bite-Sized Japan Bonus 00:45 – Why Nara is a Must-Visit with Kids 01:40 – Feeding the Deer (and What Not to Feed Them!) 02:20 – Temples, Shrines, and the Famous Giant Buddha 03:30 – Mochi-Pounding at Nakatani-do 04:45 – Where to Eat in Nara: Big Mountain Café & More 05:30 – The Great Veggie Hunt in Japan 07:00 – Tummy Troubles Abroad (and How to Avoid Them) 09:00 – Biking Around Nara & Family-Friendly Exploring 10:00 – Bonus Tip: A Day Trip to Kobe 11:00 – Wrap-Up and Where to Listen Next Topics we mentioned Info on finding veggies and salads in Japan https://www.thetokyochapter.com/when-im-craving-lots-o-veggies/ Nara recommendations for families https://www.thetokyochapter.com/nara-some-quick-tips/ What to Pack for Japan with Kids https://www.thetokyochapter.com/packing-for-tokyo-with-kids/ Contact Jo https://www.thetokyochapter.com/ Instagram @thetokyochapter Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan! AND... Don't forget your snacks!

    12 min

  8. 10/27/2025

    Exploring Osaka & Kyoto with Kids

    Jo Macgregor from The Tokyo Chapter joins host Sally Stanton again, but this time they are putting the spotlight on Osaka and Kyoto. In this episode of Snacks and Suitcases, Sally and Jo  explore the vibrant and fun city of Osaka and the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto. They discuss the unique cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and must-visit spots in both cities, including temples, shrines, and local cuisine. The conversation also touches on practical travel advice, such as transportation options and accommodation recommendations, making it a comprehensive guide for families planning a trip to Osaka and Kyoto. Chapters 00:00 Exploring Osaka and Kyoto: A Family Adventure 02:32 The Unique Vibe of Osaka 06:49 Family-Friendly Activities in Osaka 10:36 Cultural Experiences in Kyoto 23:02 Must-Visit Temples and Shrines in Kyoto 28:56 Exploring Temples and Shrines in Kyoto 32:00 Family-Friendly Activities and Recommendations 33:29 Duration of Stay in Kyoto 36:01 Accommodation Options in Kyoto 38:45 Navigating Kyoto: Transportation Tips 42:01 Private Tours and VIP Experiences 43:17 Crowd Management Strategies 45:46 Cultural Experiences: Kimono and More 48:06 Must-Visit Attractions for Families 51:30 Dining Recommendations in Kyoto 56:27 Final Thoughts and Travel Tips Topics we mentioned &Here Osaka Namba Hotel Kids Plaza Osaka https://www.thetokyochapter.com/kids-plaza-osaka/ Restaurant suggestions for families in Osaka https://www.thetokyochapter.com/where-to-eat-in-osaka-with-kids/ Restaurant suggestions for families in Kyoto https://www.thetokyochapter.com/kyoto-restaurants-with-kids/ Kyoto Railway Museum and the Playground next door https://www.thetokyochapter.com/kyoto-railway-museum/ Kinkakuji (Golden Pavillion) and restaurants nearby for families https://www.thetokyochapter.com/kyotos-kinkakuji-with-kids/ Kiyomizudera and family friendly options nearby https://www.thetokyochapter.com/kyotos-kiyomizudera-temple-with-kids/ Enkoji and the playground nearby https://www.thetokyochapter.com/enkoji-temple-a-big-playground-near-by-kyoto/ Arashiyama with kids https://www.thetokyochapter.com/other-japanese-cities-arashiyama-with-kids/ The Private Driver Company https://www.thetokyochapter.com/private-drivers-private-tours-in-japan-with-kids/ What to Pack for Japan with Kids https://www.thetokyochapter.com/packing-for-tokyo-with-kids/ International Manga Museum Teamlab Biovortex Kyoto Contact Jo https://www.thetokyochapter.com/ Instagram @thetokyochapter Connect Thank you so much for listening. Please feel free to reach out with any questions via Instagram and Facebook  @snacksandsuitcasespodcast @sallynanamis Facebook Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com  Subscribe, rate and share with a fellow parent who's dreaming of Japan! AND... Don't forget your snacks!

    59 min
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About

Planning a family holiday should be exciting… but let’s be honest, it can also be overwhelming. From restless kids on long haul flights to finding the perfect family friendly destination, the struggle is real. That’s where Snacks and Suitcases comes in. Hosted by TV presenter, travel enthusiast, and mum Sally Stanton, this podcast dives into the joys and challenges of travelling with kids. Each episode, Sally chats with travel experts, seasoned parents, industry insiders, and even the occasional celebrity, to bring you practical tips, destination inspiration, and plenty of honest, laugh out loud moments. Whether you’re dreaming of a snow trip, theme park adventure, or tropical escape, Snacks and Suitcases is here to make travelling with kids a little less chaotic and a lot more fun. So let’s take off, because the world is waiting. And… so are the kids!

Information

  • Creator
    Sally Stanton
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Snacks and Suitcases

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