Family Road trips can be an adventure in itself, but the inevitable “Are we there yet?” from the back seat doesn’t have to be a part of the scenario. Before you hit the road this summer, consider these tips to keep everyone happy.
Family Road trips can be an adventure in itself, but the inevitable “Are we there yet?” from the back seat doesn’t have to be a part of the scenario. Before you hit the road this summer, consider these tips to keep everyone happy.
1. Know your limits
Figure out what time of day is best for driving–early morning or overnight. For example, if you have young kids, an overnight drive might be best so you can drive while the kids are sleeping. If your kids are a little older, a bright and early start might be best with a fun stop along the way. By knowing how many hours you can reasonably drive each day without a total meltdown from you or the kids) you can plan a more enjoyable road trip!
2. Be prepared
While no one wants to over-pack, there are some extra items that can prove invaluable on the road. Extra diapers, baby wipes for spills and messes, snacks, drinks, ibuprofen or acetaminophen, insurance cards, plastic bags, towels, and extra sets of clothes.
3. Know your route
Do some research ahead of time for possible places to stop and stretch, take bathroom breaks, and grab a bite to eat. Have a smartphone maps app and a road atlas in case there’s not good reception – at the ready to help you find a good place to stop when the inevitable “But I have to go now!” comes from the backseat.
4. Have your kids pack their own activity bags
Give each of your kids a similarly sized tote bag or backpack and let them fill it with their favorite things. They’ll appreciate having some control over part of the trip, and it’s one less thing for you to do to get ready. But make sure to add a few surprises too! You can hit the dollar store ahead of time to find fun items that you can pull out when you feel a meltdown coming. A new sticker sheet or coloring book can provide a distraction.
5. Don’t Overload on Electronics
Movies and video games are a good way to help pass the time. But a road trip is also a good opportunity to get creative. Craft supplies are super easy to pack and can keep kids occupied for hours. Anything from paper and crayons to beading and pipe cleaner sculptures will work.
6. Play a Game
Games can involve the whole family and get your kids involved in watching the scenery around them – things like license plate bingo, using highway signs to play the alphabet game, Twenty Questions, or Name That Tune. You can even hand over the road atlas to the kids and let them quiz you on states and capitals.
7. Get musical
Younger kids will love singing their favorite songs with the family. But if you handle 30 miles of “If You’re Happy and You Know It”, put together your own fun, kid-safe playlist ahead of the trip that will keep everyone in the family happy. Or if they’re set on listening to their own music, consider headphones.
8. Spoil Your Kids
Splurge a little by giving the kids a few special treats they don’t normally get — like lunch at a fast-food restaurant or a little candy. You can let them buy one or two toys that they have been wanting for a long time or let them pick a special snack. Then, that special snack or toy can be enjoyed after one hour of driving without complaining.
So, enjoy the ride. Road trips can provide an incredible opportunity to make memories to last a lifetime.
Dreaming of your next trip? I would love to help you design the perfect land or sea experience for your family! Click here to schedule a “Let’s Get Acquainted Session” with me so we can start planning your family’s next great adventure.
