On a family adventure on four wheels, our tips will make the journey a breeze.
The key to a successful long car trip with children is to make the journey itself part of the adventure. With positive energy, engaging activities, and a bit of creativity, the trip will not only be more enjoyable but also an integral part of the holiday.
Start Well Prepared
Ensure the car is checked for oil levels and that the child seats are properly fitted. This helps avoid unpleasant surprises along the way.
Begin the journey well-rested and make sure everything is packed the night before. Ideally, have everything stowed away in advance.
Choose the Right Travel Time
If your children still take naps, plan your departure around their nap times. This way, you can cover a significant part of the trip while they sleep in the back seat.
Wear Comfortable Clothes
Dress in comfortable clothing, both for you and your kids. There’s nothing more annoying on a car trip than tight, itchy, or overly warm clothes. A travel pillow or blanket for night trips can also be very handy.
Keep Snacks and Drinks Ready
Pack plenty of snacks and water for the long drive. Avoid overpriced convenience foods from gas stations by preparing snacks at home. For ideas, check out Lynn Hoefer’s post on delicious, healthy snacks or pack ready-to-eat options from Mogli. Our kids love both for car trips and outings, along with fruits and vegetables.
Good Mood Entertainment
Create a family playlist with favorite songs for everyone to sing along to.
Audiobooks are great for long trips. We always bring our POGS headphones, which allow the kids to listen to their favorite books via Bluetooth. These headphones are especially convenient as two kids can listen together.
Plan Regular Breaks
Schedule regular breaks so the children can stretch their legs and have meals at appropriate times. Ideally, choose a spot in advance, perhaps away from the highway in a natural setting. A pre-planned break helps everyone approach the journey more relaxed. For example, on our trips to Italy, we always stop at Brix 0.1, where the kids eagerly look forward to the playground and animals.
Travel Games for Distraction
When the kids get restless, classic games like “I Spy” or “License Plate Bingo” can be great distractions and keep their focus on the scenery.
Tablets as a Last Resort
As a last resort, tablets can be very helpful. If the journey is unexpectedly long or challenging, a tablet can keep kids entertained. However, be aware that small children might protest when it’s time to put the tablet away. Communicate clearly about when and how the tablet will be used during the trip, and stick to that plan.
Patience is Key
Stay calm. Every child gets bored or fussy during a long trip. Don’t let it stress you out. Stay positive and, if needed, take more frequent breaks. It’s not the end of the world.
Have a great trip with your kids!
