Traveling to Jordan with Kids: Our First International Family Adventure
As a busy working mom, planning a trip can sometimes feel like one more item on a never-ending to-do list but taking the leap and going on our first international trip to Jordan turned out to be one of the best decisions we’ve ever made as a family.
We traveled with my husband’s family, which made everything so much easier, having extra hands is truly a gift when you’re traveling with young children. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can travel internationally with young kids, here’s my honest take on our family trip to Jordan and the unforgettable places we visited, because for me, family travel matters.
What Moms Should Know Before Visiting Jordan
We traveled to Jordan in mid-November, and the weather was perfect. The first couple of days were a little chilly but not uncomfortable, and by midweek we didn’t even need jackets. It only rained on our last day, lucky us!
Best Time to Visit
If you’re planning a trip, my mother-in-law (who has a house in Jordan) recommended visiting in spring or autumn. Summers can be extremely hot, especially in the desert, while winters can be surprisingly cold.
What to Wear
Jordan is a conservative country, so I highly recommend dressing modestly to respect the culture. Even when swimming in the Dead Sea, I wore long pants and a long T-shirt. I was grateful I did, because there was a large conference nearby in the hotel, and I would have felt uncomfortable otherwise. Think comfortable, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Add layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
What to Bring
A backpack is a must! Here’s what I recommend packing for family comfort:
Water bottles
Lots of snacks
A small travel dictionary
A portable fan (for hot days)
A travel-size portable potty (trust me, you’ll thank yourself at Petra!)
A hat or cap
Comfortable walking shoes
Of course, your camera
These little things made our trip so much smoother, especially with a preschooler in tow.
Petra: Walking Through a Wonder of the World
Petra is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and seeing it in person felt surreal. This ancient city, carved into rose-colored stone, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The colors, the history, and the size of the monuments left me speechless.
Some of the must-see highlights in Petra include:
The Siq (the narrow canyon leading to Petra)
The Treasury
The Royal Tombs
The Silk Tomb
The Palace Monument
The Corinthian Tomb
Walking through Petra with kids is doable if you pace yourself, take breaks, and if you’re lucky like me, have extra family to help. Keep in mind that it’s a long walk with lots of steps, uneven surfaces, uphill climbs, and bathrooms are nowhere to be seen, so plan accordingly. Personally, I wouldn’t recommend visiting Petra with a child younger than four because of the amount of walking and the long distances involved.
We stayed at the beautiful Old Village Resort, just minutes from Petra. The service was excellent, and the hotel even had a small shop selling souvenirs, teas, and incense.
The food was delicious, and the property was clean and beautifully maintained.
Wadi Rum: Sleeping Under the Stars
Next, we visited Wadi Rum, often called the Valley of the Moon.
Staying in a bubble hotel, a luxury camp in the desert, was one of the most magical parts of our trip. Imagine lying in bed, gazing up at a sky filled with stars, surrounded by peaceful desert silence. In the evenings, we enjoyed traditional Arabic songs around the campfire while sharing delicious local food.
During the day, Wadi Rum is a playground for both kids and adults. My daughter had the time of her life rolling down the sandy dunes, while we soaked in the breathtaking desert views.
We also went on a jeep tour through the rugged landscape and stopped to take photos, which was unforgettable.
And moms, be prepared to snap a lot of amazing photos!
The Dead Sea: Floating Without Effort
One of the most unforgettable experiences was visiting the Dead Sea.
At 427 meters below sea level, it’s the lowest point on earth.
The sensation of floating effortlessly in the salty water is something everyone should experience at least once.
And yes, I joined in on the fun with the famous Dead Sea mud mask. People were covered head-to-toe in it, and I couldn’t resist trying it myself. While it didn’t magically make me look 20 again, it was fun, and my skin did feel refreshed afterward.
The Amman Citadel: A Step Back in Time
In Amman, we explored the Citadel, which is filled with incredible archaeological remains such as the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace, and a Byzantine Church. The Jordan Archaeological Museum gave us a deeper look into the region’s fascinating history.
Walking through these ancient ruins with my daughter reminded me how powerful travel can be, it connects us to stories far older than ourselves.
Jerash: A Walk Through Ancient Rome in Jordan
One of the most surprising and beautiful stops on our trip was Jerash, often called the “Pompeii of the East.” Just an hour north of Amman, Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy, and it truly feels like stepping back in time.
Walking through the ancient streets, we saw grand colonnades, Roman theaters, temples, and plazas. It was incredible to imagine life here thousands of years ago.
My daughter loved running up and down the wide stone pathways and climbing around the old steps, proof that history can be fun for kids too!
Family-friendly tip: Jerash involves a fair bit of walking, so comfortable shoes and water are a must. Strollers don’t do well on the uneven stones, so a carrier or just letting kids roam is easier.
If you’re exploring Jordan with kids, Jerash is a wonderful mix of history and open space where little ones can burn off some energy while parents soak up the culture.
Downtown Amman: Food, Culture, and Shopping
Finally, we wrapped up our trip in Downtown Amman, which was the perfect way to slow down and enjoy everyday life in Jordan.
We wandered through shops, bought souvenirs, and indulged in delicious food. The culture, hospitality, and vibrant energy of the city made a lasting impression.
Final Thoughts: Can Busy Moms Travel Internationally with Kids?
Absolutely. Traveling with a young child isn’t always easy, but with flexibility, support, and a sense of adventure, it’s more than possible, it’s rewarding. Jordan gave us memories we’ll treasure forever, and it showed me that being a mom doesn’t mean putting travel dreams on hold.
So if you’re a busy mom thinking about an international trip with your family, take the leap. Pack the snacks, bring the patience, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Jordan was the perfect place for our first adventure abroad and it might be the perfect destination for you too.
Best wishes,
Mel
