The Gaddies Guide to Gay Dad Family Travel

Summer is here and that means it's time to travel!

Whether you're jetting off to another country or road-tripping across where you live, traveling as a gay dad family is full of adventure and a few extra things to consider. From choose the right destination to navigating paperwork and cultural norms, a little planning goes a long way toward making the trip smooth, safe, and fun for everyone.

To help, we're spoke with BJ and Frank, aka Family Is About Love, gay dads who are currently on a yearlong journey around the world with their child. They shared their tips on how to prep like pros, what they've learned on the road, and yes the moment one of them got mstiaken for Grandpa. 

1. Snack, and more snacks "Do not forget to eat! Make sure you eat before you are hungry because travel gets delayed and you get tired and hungry. Lots and lots of snacks."
   
2. Don't overpack!  "Really you don't need that much when you go away, and if you forget anything you can buy it when you are there. It makes traveling that much easier."
3. Have lots of patience "There's a whole lot of moving parts to every trip. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses and you play off each other as a family.

"The biggest issue we had on our whole trip was when we took our child to the doctor and someone called me the grandfather!"

PLAN WITH PURPOSE: RESEARCH & RESPECT

Before booking your family adventure, gay dads need to take time to research the legal, cultural, and social climate of your destination—especially when traveling as an LGBTQ+ family. You're not just traveling as yourselves; you're traveling as parents, and your safety, visibility, and sense of welcome matter.

Start with trusted resources like The International LGTBQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), which offers destination-specific guides and travel tips tailored for gay dads and LGBTQ+ travelers. Their tools can help you choose family-friendly places that align with your values and offer a safe, inclusive environment for both you and your kids.

DOCUMENT EVERYTHING: PAPERWORK PEACE OF MIND

When traveling as a gay dad family, preparation is key, especially when it comes to documents. Having the right paperwork can help you avoid unnecessary delays and give you important peace of mind throughout your trip. Here's what to bring (in multiple copies and store digitally)

• Birth certificates: If one parent is not listed, carry a notarized letter of consent or custody document authorizing travel with your child.
• Adoption records (as specific to your family): especially important for traveling with children who are not able to answer questions on their own.
• Passports: yours and your children.
• Custody letters: Vital if last names differ or if only one parent is present. Bring a notarized letter from any legal co-parent or guardian authorizing travel.

Having these family travel documents ready helps ensure a smoother, safer journey.

CHOOSE LBGTQ+ FRIENDLY HOSPITALITY

For gay dads and LGBTQ+ families, safety isn't just physical. It's emotional and logistical too. Where you stay can make a big difference in how welcome and supported you feel.

Start by choosing accommodations that actively support and welcome LGBTQ+ travelers. Trusted platforms like Purple Roofs and World Rainbow Hotels specialize in LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations. Whether you are booking a resort or a rental, prioritize places that value and expression inclusion.

BE PREPARED FOR CULTURAL CURIOSITY

Even in LGBTQ+-friendly destinations, gay dad families  may encounter questions or curiosity.

Remember that there is no right or wrong way to answer the "where's mommy" question. What matters most is prioritizing your family’s comfort and safety in the moment. Some conversations invite connection; others are best met with a smile and a redirect.

You get to decide what feels right for your family and what stories you choose to share.