Before setting off on our European adventures with our 6 month old, I wondered which is easier…travel by train or to rent a car. I read a few blogs and it was a pretty even split on what people thought. After much consideration, we decided to rent a car for the following reasons:
- We could adjust our schedule as necessary. Babies will have their emotions and it doesn’t matter what time it is. We didn’t want to be tied down to a train schedule.
- We had a lot of stuff. Many forums will tell you to rent equipment, like strollers and cribs. We prefer to have our daughter’s own equipment with us because we know she likes what she has and as we adjust to time difference and the changing of hotel rooms every few days, at least her bed could remain consistent.
- A stop anytime or anywhere would be easy.
- My husband loves driving and in Germany he could get his NASCAR speed rush. He was very careful with baby on board.
- Freedom. We didn’t have to worry about anyone else in our space when baby cried.
- Attractions outside of the touristic zones were more accessible by car.
- It was easier to design our trip.
- The price was lower than buying train tickets for 2 people.
Whatever you decide, let it be right for you. If you get tired easily from long distance driving, the train may be best for you. You need a lot of patience to drive in countries that are foreign to you because you have to figure out the signs, tolerate the style of driving, and be more aware and alert. Finding parking will also be a bit of a challenge, but it is possible. The most important thing is to be very patient every step of the way and help each other.
Travel n Inspiration 
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