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Our family has taken A LOT of road trips thanks to moving so much in the military. Some have gone extremely smooth and others have been a complete train wreck!
I feel like we’ve learned a lot over the past years that could be helpful to families just starting out. We’re always down to try new suggested but I thought I’d share the staples that keep us brave enough to drive for 8+ hours in one day with FOUR KIDS AND A DOG.
These are my go to essentials for family road trips broken down into 5 categories.
TOP ESSENTIALS FOR FAMILY ROAD TRIPS
1. LOAD UP ON SNACKS
I mean seriously, is there anything easier than giving your kid snacks to occupy them? We load up on everything from lollipops to Pop-tarts to Lunchables and more. A full kid is a happy kid and a happy kid on the road equals happy adults in the front seat. Below are some great suggestions to pack for your trip!
PRO TIP: DO NOT LOAD UP ON JUICE. Make your kids drink water (because they’ll most likely drink this more slowly) so you can avoid stopping every hour for potty breaks.
2. BRING ENTERTAINMENT WITH YOU
Take it from a seasoned parent – road trips are not a great starting place to monitor your kids screen time. By all means, use electronics as a last resort but BRING THEM FOR THE LOVE OF YOUR SANITY. I’ve also found its helpful to talk about screen time prior to the trip. “Yes, you can play on the tablet during our trip but ONLY after you’ve read for 30 minutes.” Those kind of up front conversations really work for us.
Believe it or not, kids do get tired of screens. Below are some additional interment suggestions I highly recommend from experience.
- Coloring lap tray – Love this item for the side pouches with zippers that hold crayons or color pencils.
- Water Magic Activity Book – These are fantastic for little kids. Fill the pen with water and color away! When you’re finished, let the book dry and you can do it all over again.
- Doodle Pad – Okay, so I just ordered these for our road trip that we’re taking in 2 days from now so I personally cannot attest to them. However, the reviews were amazing and I think my kids are going to love them! I love that these can be used for learning and fun in so many different ways.
3. BE OVERLY PREPARED FOR MESSES
Spills, puke, sticky hands – YOU NAME IT. With kids, any mess is possible on a road trip. Save yourself stress by packing an emergency cleaning bag. I’m talking wipes, trash bags, Dramamine, towels, chap stick and hand sanitizer.
It’s better to be over prepared then to make a pit stop because someone just discovered they get motion sickness.
- Wipes – Any types of wipes will work. These are what my family typically uses. It’s best to get something unscented.
- Anti-Nausea Medicine – Don’t forget some for the adults if you get motion sickness like me!
- First Aid Kit – If you don’t already have one of these I’d highly suggest getting one even if you aren’t traveling far. These are so handy and you can easily refill them as you work through some of your most highly used items (Band-aids!)
4. TRAVEL IN COMFORT
Being comfortable (but presentable for bathroom breaks and gas station stops) is a top priority for our family. Lets face it, you’re about to be sitting in the car for 3+ hours. You can change into something nice when you arrive.
Dress comfortably but also bring items that make the ride comfortable for you. Pillows and blankets for the kids if you’re traveling during nap time, neck rest for you if you get uncomfortable quickly in your car and comfortable shoes that won’t drive you crazy if/when you hit traffic.
- Neck Pillow – Because you’re worth it.
- Kids Travel Pillow – Because they’re worth it too.
5. BE PREPARED FOR CAR TROUBLE
This is a top priority for yourself and your family. Safety is always the number 1 priority while traveling. Get your oil changed. If you need new tires, get them before you leave. Check your wipers and fluid.
Anything that you can do before your trip to make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape should be done. Being prepared for accidents while your out should also make your priority list.
- Tire Repair Kit – Because you or your husband can do it quicker than taking it to a shop
- Roadside Emergency Kit – You probably already have some of these items. If that’s the case, go check to make sure you know where they are and how to use them.
There you have it! These are my top essentials for family road trips. Drive safe and good luck!
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