Taking a family road trip can be a fulfilling, bonding experience, but many parents can view it as the Mount Everest of family holidays. But with these 5 tips for taking a road trip with children in mind, you’re assured a fun and relaxing holiday. Explore a country from behind the wheel, and maybe even hire a motorhome for your trip to ensure maximum comfort and ease. Check out our advice, and then let the adventure begin!
Pack The Snacks
No one is pleasant when they’re hangry, so avoid this at all costs. Purchase snacks before the trip to ensure you don’t have to overspend at petrol stations and resort to unhealthy choices. Kids on a sugar high are not ideal in such a small space, so aim for nutritious food that is low in sugar. Also avoid big meals, as this can cause travel sickness. Ideas include:
No one is pleasant when they’re hangry, so avoid this at all costs. Purchase snacks before the trip to ensure you don’t have to overspend at petrol stations and resort to unhealthy choices. Kids on a sugar high are not ideal in such a small space, so aim for nutritious food that is low in sugar. Also avoid big meals, as this can cause travel sickness. Ideas include:
- Rice crackers and rice cakes
- Popcorn
- Nuts and dried fruit
- Sliced fruit
- Vegetable sticks and hummus, or another dip
- String cheese
- Sandwiches
Pack food in portions, to avoid hassle on the road. And be sure to pack heaviest things, like drinks, at the bottom to avoid it getting crushed. Speaking of drinks, pack enough water and juice to keep everyone hydrated!
Keep it fun
Boredom is the biggest danger during a road trip, as it leads to whiny, impatient kids. Defeat boredom by planning ahead, and having plenty of family car games. Classics like “I Spy”, “I’m Going on a Picnic” and “Travel Bingo” are ideal, as it keeps everyone focused and occupied. But also bring activity books, which can be found in any bookstore and will keep them entertained.
Bring a CD that the whole family can tolerate, for when they’re more tired and just want to listen. I like downloading an audiobook (Harry Potter is great for slightly older children), as I find it more bearable than a children’s CD on repeat.
Always have a backup. And by back up, I mean electronics. When things get really dire, an iPad or Laptop with a film will be your only salvation. Hopefully, it won’t reach that point, but be prepared.
Stops
Plan your stops in advance. This has two effects. Firstly, it gives kids something to look forward to, so they’ll ask to stop less. If you have set stops you also won’t be tempted to stop too often and ruin your schedule. Secondly, it ensures you stop at the right places. Avoid stopping at boring gas stations with overpriced shops and toilets, and instead, plan to stop somewhere with a playground for the kids to stretch their legs. Give a specific time that you’ll be at a stop, to avoid it running on. Another place to stop one day would be a beach or pool, perfect for a long day of driving. Have their splash stuff packed somewhere easy to grab, in a waterproof bag.
Packing
Make a list before your trip starts of everything you need to bring. Consider snacks, spare clothing, blankets and more. Pack clothes for each day separately, to make mornings easier, with a spare jacket on hand.
Don’t forget to pack the following:
- First aid kit (including travel sickness pills!)
- Baby wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Power banks for electronics
- Small trash bags for on the road
If you’re heading abroad, be sure to check the rules for each destination you drive through. Some countries require you to contain certain documents or safety items in the vehicle at all times, so don’t be caught unprepared!
Destinations
When traveling to multiple destinations with young ones, planning ahead is vital. Make a list of each place you want to visit or things you’d like to do, and then look around each for things your kids would love too! Try to switch between preferences, to ensure smiles throughout the car. By camping with your motorhome each evening, you also give kids the room to run about and stretch their legs. Aim for a campsite with a playground - or even a pool- for the happiest of children. If you’d like to visit museums, aim for ones with interactive exhibits.