Hey there
We're Chris & Katie
Full-time professionals. Full-time parents. Part-time adventurers. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, proof that you don't need to wait until retirement to see the world, you just need to stop making excuses and start planning.
Our Story
It Started Five Weeks After We Met
We fell in love during the pandemic and took our very first trip together just five weeks after meeting. No big plan, just two people who wanted to see what was out there. That trip changed everything.
When our little man came along, we didn't stop. We just got smarter. We learned to plan better, travel lighter, and stretch every dollar further — using points, miles, and every trick we could find to keep the adventures coming without blowing the budget.
This started because we wanted to show other families that travel doesn't have to wait. We both work full-time jobs, our kids are young, and life is busy — but the world is too good to put on hold. Everything we share is real, practical, and actually doable. No fluff, no perfect-family pretending.
The Faces Behind It
Meet Us
Chris
Tech Guy
Hi, I'm Chris, an engineer by trade and a traveler at heart. I work in electronics and hardware testing, where I enjoy solving problems and helping bring products to life. Outside of work, my biggest passion is exploring new places and creating memories with my wife and family.
This blog started from our shared love of travel. From scenic road trips and hidden small towns to unforgettable food, views, and adventures along the way. We love discovering destinations that are beautiful, practical, family friendly, and worth sharing with others.
When I'm not traveling, you'll usually find me working on creative projects, enjoying the outdoors, golfing, gaming, or taking on new challenges and ideas. Thanks for following along with our journey, we're excited to share it with you.
Katie
The Heart of It
Hi! I am Katie, wife and mama to two wonderful lil men! I started my professional career as a Second grade teacher but have been in the tech world for over a decade now, mainly in the Recruiting space.
Plain and simple, I live to travel. I got the travel bug early in life and am blessed to have fallen in love with a man whose heart is just as adventurous as mine — and so far it looks like we have passed that gene along to our boys. Watching my boys travel to new places and experience new cultures, especially at such a young age, has made me enjoy it even more. Seeing things through their eyes and perspective is pure magic.
When I am not traveling and editing content, you can find me deep diving into my current creative obsession, thrifting, or working out. This content creation journey our family is on started as a dream that consumed my brain and I can not believe it is becoming our reality — truly mind boggling. I am so grateful that you are following along for this journey we call life. Thank you!
Our Philosophy
Why We Do This
Kids make it better
Seeing the world through little eyes changes everything. The wonder they bring to every new place is something no adult can manufacture. It makes every chaotic airport moment worth it.
Smart travel makes it possible
Two regular salaries, two kids, and a full travel calendar. We plan carefully, book strategically, and yes — we maximize points and miles wherever we can. It's not a secret, it's just a system worth learning.
Honest beats perfect
We'll tell you when something sucked, when we got it wrong, and what we'd do differently. Real advice from people who've actually done it, not a highlight reel.
Come Follow Along
We share daily life and behind-the-scenes travel moments on social. Find us everywhere as @BayerleinTravels.
Want to work with us? Check out our connect page →