Ready.Set.Depart: Recent Episodes
Ashley Linton
Do you want to travel with your family but you're not sure you can do it? Sure you can! With our tips and tricks, including tips just for kids, you can travel whether it's half way across the world or just in the county next to yours! Let's go!
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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On this episode of Ready Set Depart, We’re taking you with us to Joshua Tree National Park—a place that surprised us so much, it became our family’s favorite. From funky desert towns to boulder climbing and sunrise at the Cholla Cactus Garden, Joshua Tree is weird, wonderful, and unlike anywhere else. We’ll share the hikes we loved, the animals we spotted, and the little moments that made this trip unforgettable. If you’ve ever wondered whether this desert park is worth the stop, we’ll show you why it absolutely is.
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In this episode of Ready Set Depart, I share how our family discovered that homeschooling and travel are the perfect pair. From flexible schedules to lessons that come alive in museums, parks, and historic sites, I explain how learning on the road sparks curiosity in ways a classroom can’t. You’ll also hear from Trooper, as he shares his own take on “roadschooling.” Whether you homeschool full-time or just want to add meaningful learning to your family vacations, this episode is packed with practical tips, honest stories, and encouragement to make travel part of your education journey.
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In this episode of Ready Set Depart, we explore the beauty, history, and family-friendly adventures of Mount Rainier National Park—affectionately known in the Pacific Northwest as The Mountain.
We dive into Rainier’s rich past, from its significance to Indigenous tribes and its designation as one of the first National Parks, to the mountaineers, loggers, and conservationists who helped protect it. Along the way, we share some of the most memorable experiences families can enjoy today, including:
- Iconic Views & Rustic Charm – Discover why Rainier’s snowy peak has captivated generations and how the Park’s unique “Rustic Style” buildings set the stage for National Park architecture.
- Family Hikes for Every Level – From the easy Trail of Shadows and Myrtle Falls walk to the trickier Narada Falls climb and the famous Wonderland Trail, there’s something for everyone.
- Junior & Citizen Ranger Programs – Fun and educational activities for kids (and adults!) to earn badges, patches, and learn about the Mountain’s natural wonders.
- Fishing & Wildlife Spotting – With free fishing inside the Park, playful marmots on the trails, and the chance to see everything from deer to mountain goats, outdoor adventures abound.
- Seasonal Highlights – Wildflowers in full summer bloom, cascading waterfalls, and even a ride on the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad.
- Travel Tips – How to avoid crowds, where to stay, and what essentials to pack for a smooth trip.
Whether you’re dreaming of a big hike, a scenic family walk, or just soaking up the views, Mount Rainier is a destination full of awe and adventure.
For photos, resources, and links mentioned in this episode, visit readysetdepart.com/18.
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Looking for a charming summer getaway that’s perfect for the whole family? In this episode of the Ready Set Depart podcast, we’re heading to Leavenworth, Washington—a Bavarian-themed village nestled in the Cascade Mountains, just a few hours from Seattle.
We’ll take you behind the scenes of Leavenworth’s unique transformation from a logging town to a must-visit tourist destination, and share all the best family-friendly things to do in Leavenworth during the summer.
Here’s what you’ll discover:
- Why the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm is a magical stop for animal lovers
- What makes the Leavenworth Summer Theater a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience (yes, they really perform The Sound of Music in the mountains!)
- How to ride Washington’s first alpine coaster at the Leavenworth Adventure Park
- The best hikes for all skill levels, including the scenic Old Pipeline Bed Trail
- Where to float the Wenatchee River or cool off in glacial-fed waters
- Can’t-miss eats—from authentic German food to family-friendly pizza joints
- Unique attractions like the Nutcracker Museum, fish hatchery, and minigolf
- Bonus day trip: Lake Wenatchee for boating, hiking, or relaxing on the beach
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or just love discovering new places, this episode is packed with travel tips, personal stories, and plenty of reasons to add Leavenworth to your family’s bucket list.
Check out photos and our full list of Leavenworth travel tips at readysetdepart.com/17.
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*NOTE: Trooper just got a palette extender put in so that’s why you’ll hear a bit of a lisp today*
Traveling with pets? In this special episode, we welcome our very first guest—my sister-in-law Julie—who’s an experienced dog traveler and shares all her road trip wisdom! We compare notes on what it’s like to travel with dogs versus cats, from carriers and food stops to hotel stays and calming aids. You’ll meet Roca the rescue pup, Roger the giant cat, and hear what’s worked (and what hasn’t) on our pet-friendly adventures. Whether you’ve got a tail-wagger or a quiet kitty, this episode is full of real-life tips to make traveling with your furry family member less stressful and more fun.
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In this episode, we're heading to Northern Utah to visit one of America’s lesser-known but historically rich destinations - Golden Spike National Historical Park. This is where the East and West finally connected in 1869 with the completion of the first Transcontinental Railroad.
We’ll talk about what you’ll see at the park (yes, there are working steam trains!), what makes this place so significant, and why it’s absolutely worth the long desert drive. From Junior Ranger programs to hiking trails, dark skies, and even giant grasshoppers (thanks, Trooper!), this episode has all the tips to help you plan your visit.
Whether you’re chasing National Park stamps, planning a family road trip, or just love standing where history happened—this episode is for you!
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If you could only visit one national park in your lifetime… would you choose Yellowstone? In this episode, we’re diving into why the answer should be a big YES, plus what to do (and what to skip) to make the most of your trip. From erupting geysers and massive bison to Junior Ranger badges and wildlife traffic jams, we’re sharing our top tips for planning a day - or more - in America’s first national park.
We’ll walk you through what loop to drive, where to stop, and how to avoid common mistakes that can waste time or even put you in danger. You’ll hear about our favorite visitor centers, why we love Old Faithful, and how to stay safe (and respectful) around wild animals.
Whether you’re dreaming of spotting a wolf in Lamar Valley or just hoping to find a parking space near a flushy toilet, this episode is packed with practical advice and a whole lot of love for Yellowstone.
Grab your free Yellowstone Stops Map at readysetdepart.com/14 and let’s plan your next adventure!
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If you’ve ever wandered around the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido wondering where all the animals (or people) were—this one’s for you. In this episode, we’re sharing our hard-earned tips to help you plan a cooler, smoother, way-more-fun day at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
We cover:
- The best day (and time) to visit
- What to bring to beat the heat
- Why the African Tram should be your first stop
- A route that actually makes sense (with a free downloadable map!)
- Hidden gems like the bonsai garden and locator poles
- Must-see animals, from okapis and platypus to cheetahs and condors
- And what to skip if you’re short on time (sorry, elephant overlook)
Plus, we’ve created a printable Safari Park scavenger hunt to keep kids engaged while you explore. You can grab that—and our custom walking map—at readysetdepart.com/13. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or just want to make your day smoother, cooler, and more fun, this episode is for you.
Here is the link to the Zoo Cams that we talked about.
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Visiting the San Diego Zoo with kids (and maybe a stroller) can feel a bit like a workout. In this episode, we’re sharing how to make your zoo day easier, more fun, and a whole lot less uphill.
We’ll cover when to go, whether to buy tickets ahead of time, why the paper map is still your best friend, and how to hit your must-see animals without wearing everyone out. From insider tips on the best seat on the bus tour to how to actually enjoy the hills (or avoid them), we’ve got you covered.
You’ll also hear our take on the pandas (yes, they’re back!), how to feed a giraffe, and why you should definitely chat with the volunteers in red. Plus, Trooper introduces his newly renamed segment “TIPS” and shares the scoop on the Balboa Park Miniature Train.
For our full zoo plan, videos, and adorable zoo stickers, check out readysetdepart.com/zoo. Let’s make your next trip to one of the world’s best zoos one to remember—minus the sore legs.
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Flying with kids can be intimidating! Believe me, I know! I'm not the calmest flier anyway so the thought of adding a screaming baby to the mix was not my favorite thing. But, through trial and error, we've come up with some tips and tricks that will hopefully make your first time, or 100th time, that much better!
SHOW NOTES:
Stroller Bag for the Airplane
Car Seat Bag for the Airplane
TSA PreCheck
Why do you need to go to Redwood National and State Parks? Let us tell you 14 reasons why this National Park needs to get put at the top of your list!
You need to go to Olympic National Park!
Why? That’s what we’re going to talk about in this episode.
We’ll give you 12 reasons why you really need to go to Olympic National Park.
I bet some will surprise you!
Have you ever been?
Things happen when we’re vacationing that we can’t plan for. Hopefully they’ll just be inconvenient, but sometimes they’re a bit more serious so over the years, I have put together a list of things that I do that calm my anxiety when it comes to travel. Maybe some of these suggestions can help you!
When I say “road trip,” does it fill you with dread or make you excited to come along?
Road trips definitely used to fill me with dread but they don’t anymore. In fact, as long as the weather is good, I actually really like them.
Listen to episode #7 of the Ready Set Depart podcast for 10 tips for your next road trip!
We have traveled all over the world, and will continue to travel all over the world, but there is one place we will always come back to - Disneyland. Listen in on our love letter to our Happy Place!
Why travel half way across the world when you can see something pretty amazing in your own backyard? Join us as we talk about the beautiful things that are all around us and how to find them!
You see, during the pandemic when our travel circle grew smaller, we made it our mission to explore things that were close to home that we had never seen before.
What is in your own backyard that you've never seen before?
In this episode, we’re going to talk about something that is near and dear to my heart - National Parks. If you’ve listened to ANY of the podcast episodes, you’ve heard me talk about National Parks and today I’m going to give you 10 reasons why I love National Parks, and why you should love them too.
Go to our website for a free download!
My family often jokes with me that my favorite thing about traveling is the planning. Now, this is absolutely untrue, but it is a close second to the actual travel!
I love finding interesting facts or great places to go. I love learning from others' experiences or mistakes. And I love knowing what I’d like to do, but not be too scheduled!
**So, let’s plan a trip together!
Show Notes:*GeocachingAdventure Labs*Junior Ranger Program
When I say Hawaii, what do you think? Do you think about Waikiki Beach or Pearl Harbor or Honolulu? Most people do.
But in this episode, we’re going to talk about Hawaii, also known as the Big Island.
The State of Hawaii is an archipelago, which basically means that there are a lot of islands that make up Hawaii. In fact, there are 132 islands that make up Hawaii, though only 7 are inhabited. Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau and Hawaii - the Big Island.
Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor and Honolulu are all on Oahu, which is a beautiful island, but a very busy island.
If you’re like us and like things to be a little calmer, the Big Island is perfect for you and your family!
RESOURCES FOR THIS EPISODE
National Parks:
Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail
Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm
Kanaloa Octopus Farm
Mauna Kea Visitor Center
Tortuga Sea Window
Shaka Tours
Welcome to our very first podcast! We're so glad you're here.
I’d like to introduce you to me and my family! I’m Ashley, the mom and chief planner of the group. Then there’s my husband Brent who is the Chief driver and all around calm guy. And then we have our son who we will call Trooper who is always up for an adventure.
We are a family of travelers, but not the kind that's been to 100 countries, though that would be cool. We're the kind who have full-time jobs and school and businesses and pets and responsibilities. But we still get out and travel as much as we possibly can.
In this episode, we are going to talk about WHY we travel and WHY you should travel too. But, here's the question, what IS travel? Does it mean flying for 10 hours, or driving down the road?
We know that traveling with your family can be a disaster, but it doesn't have to be. Let's go!