Hey Reader,
We're almost at the end of May, which means we’re 2-3 months out from the biggest leap our family’s ever taken. The site’s live, the bags are… sorta packed, and we’re knee-deep in checklists, clinic forms, and cleaning supplies.
We also started tackling tech stuff behind the blog, turns out SEO and site speed matter just as much as sunscreen when you’re trying to fund a family adventure.
Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes as we prep for long-term travel through South America.
Behind-the-Scenes Update
We’re still months away from wheels up, but things are starting to feel real. I finally pulled the trigger on a technical SEO gig — and two days later, our blog came back with a 98% site health score.
Yes, I took a screenshot. Yes, I’m still riding that high.
Also: one child has packed a headlamp, a stuffed fox, and three socks (none matching). We’re clearly in peak prep mode.
Real Talk: Blogging Like It Pays (Because It Has To)
This month I wrote about something that most bloggers avoid talking about: the tech stuff that actually helps you earn.
If you’ve ever wondered how email lists and affiliate tools help fund this kind of family adventure, this one’s for you:
➡️ How We Use Kit to Monetize Our Travel Blog (Without Feeling Spammy)
We break down our setup, automations, lead magnets, and the new Kit App Store which is a legit game-changer if you’re a creator juggling a million tabs.
And if you're wondering what a 98% site health score means (and why it matters), I laid that out too:
➡️ [How Technical SEO Helps Monetize a Travel Blog]
Both are grounded, honest, and filled with things we’re actually using to build income streams for the road.
Travel Tip of the Month (For Families)
Tip: Start testing travel routines now.
Pick one day a month to do a full “pretend travel day” bags packed, snacks prepped, even just a walk to the park. It helps your kids adapt, and helps you spot gaps early (like the missing sock situation above).
Spanglish Corner: A Family Spanish Tip
Phrases we're practicing
“¿Tienen menú para niños?” – Do you have a kids' menu?
This one’s become our go-to when checking if there’s even a remote chance of pasta or rice. We’re using the TalkBox.Mom app to learn together (the kids like correcting my accent).
Stuff We’re Loving (Gear & Tools)
- Compression Packing Cubes
These are officially part of our system. Each kid gets a color, and everything (including chaos) stays contained.
- Kit App Store
We’re obsessed. We connected forms, testimonials, and planning tools right into our email dashboard. Huge time-saver.
What’s Coming Up Next
Next month, we start tackling vaccinations and travel insurance. Pray for our inboxes.
Want to Help (or Just Lurk Supportively)?
What’s the one thing you wish you’d known before a big trip?
Reply and let me know, I’m collecting wisdom (and possibly panic-purchasing gear based on your answers).Until next time, thanks for being here while we build this thing from the ground up. Socks and all.
- Travelventure Dad
