Taking long car rides with kids is probably not on your list of fun and ideal things to do. That said there are many times when this is just unavoidable. The idea isn’t to not do them, but how to survive them. If done well you may even enjoy them. That’s why we wanted to provide you with some tips as well as some road trip activities your kids will love.
All kids are different and each age group has different needs. For that reason, we broke down our suggestions by age group to make it easier to figure out what helpful tips and fun activities will work for you when taking a road trip with kids.
First a little bit about us. My husband used to travel a lot for work. That meant lots of time on the road as most of his destinations were not far enough to fly. We also make a trip from just outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to central Florida. This trip happens annually and sometimes bi-annually. When we first started road tripping it was just the 2 of us. This was easy. Then our oldest son came along. With one kid it still was easy enough. Fast forward 8 years and now we have three kids, all under the age of 8. Road trips are no longer easy. They require planning and preparation. But with the right effort, they can be fun!
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Table of Contents
Planning Your Family Road Trip
Choosing Destinations
When planning a family road trip, the first step is to choose kid-friendly destinations. Consider places that offer activities and attractions to keep the little ones entertained, such as theme parks, national parks, or historical sites. Talk to your kids and ask for their input on what they want to see and do during the trip. My kids love going to museums, theme parks, the beach, shopping, and so much more.
Road Trip Itinerary
Take the time to map out your route, so you can make the most of your time on the road. Use GPS and paper maps as a backup in case you lose signal along the way. It’s beneficial to locate scenic rest stops with play parks, grassy areas, or forests for enjoyable breaks during the trip.
We also like to have an idea of what food places might be on the way so that you can stop at places your kids will eat. If your kids are like mine most fast-food places will work but for pickier children, more planning may be required. We also find it is important to research where you will be traveling through as some restaurant chains and rest stops are regional. This can also be helpful as you may be able to try a place you have never been and may not see again.
Packing for the Road Trip
Packing smart can help make your family road trip smoother. Ensure you have essential items like first-aid kits, chargers, and essential documents. Remember to pack healthy snacks like sandwiches, fruits, and nuts to avoid spending too much on gas station junk food and prevent tummy aches from overconsumption of unhealthy options.. Also, bring items that will keep your kids entertained during drive time, such as books, games, and electronic devices. It is important to make sure that the things you will need during the drive are within arms reach. This will help avoid unnecessary stops.
Making it Comfortable for Kids
To ensure a comfortable trip for your kids, invest in quality car seats and seat organizers to help keep everything neat and within reach. Keep blankets and pillows on hand for naps, and bring sunshades for the windows to protect your kids from the sun. Regular stops to stretch their legs and use restroom facilities will help keep their energy levels up and make the journey more enjoyable. It is also important to make sure that your luggage fits well in the car and that the kids have adequate room in their seats.
Keeping Kids Entertained on the Road
Taking a road trip with kids can be challenging, but keeping them entertained can make the journey much smoother. In this section, we will cover three sub-sections – Music, Books, and Audiobooks; Car Games; and Crafts and Drawing to help you keep the kids entertained during your travels.
Music, Books, and Audiobooks
A simple and effective way to keep your kids entertained on a road trip is through music. Creating a playlist with their favorite songs or discovering new genres together can keep them engaged for hours. Additionally, you can try listening to audiobooks or encouraging your little ones to read physical books. This not only keeps them occupied, but it also helps to nourish their minds during the long drive. Be careful though. Kids can get car sick when reading. We solved this by using motion sickness patches. They really seemed to help.
Car Games
Car games are a classic and fun way to keep your kids entertained. Classic games like “I Spy” allow children to observe the passing scenery and engage in a lively game with the whole family. Other favorites include Tic Tac Toe, 20 Questions, and License Plate Bingo. These games not only provide entertainment but also promote problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills. Our family also plays a made-up game. We call it “Disney guess.” It’s a guessing game where one person picks a Disney movie and then gives clues while the others attempt to guess the movie. The kids love it and will play for extended periods of time
Crafts and Drawing
Encouraging your kids to express themselves creatively can make the long drive more enjoyable. Providing them with a sketch pad or coloring books can help them pass the time by drawing and coloring, while also improving their fine motor skills. You might even consider bringing along sticker or magnet games that they can play on a cookie sheet. Crafts like knitting, friendship bracelets, or simple origami can also entertain older kids and help develop their patience and focus.
Remember, variety is key when it comes to keeping kids entertained on a road trip. Mix and match these activities, and make sure to take breaks to stretch and rejuvenate.
Snacks and Meals for the Road
Planning the right snacks and meals for a road trip with kids is crucial to ensure everyone stays happy and energized during your journey. Aim to pack a diverse selection of tasty and nutritious options that are easy to eat on the go.
A quick visit to your local grocery store can help you stock up on a variety of road trip-friendly snacks. Think about fresh fruits like apples, clementines, and seedless grapes that are both mess-free and convenient to eat. You could also opt for carrot sticks or cherry tomatoes which are healthier alternatives to potato chips. Don’t forget to consider snack-sized packets of trail mix or popcorn for a delicious, munchable treat.
For more substantial meals, consider packing sandwiches or wraps that can be easily stored and consumed in the car. Choosing whole-grain bread or wraps and filling them with lean protein sources and plenty of veggies can promote sustained energy throughout your trip. Some tasty ideas include turkey and avocado wraps, hummus and veggie sandwiches, or a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
But, let’s not forget the kids! Packing enjoyable but healthy options will keep them satisfied and less prone to junk food temptations. A few kid-tested favorites include:
- Celery sticks with peanut butter
- Veggies and hummus
- Fruit leather
- Cheese sticks
- Whole-grain crackers
To keep all your on-the-go meals fresh, consider investing in a cooler or insulated bag. This will maintain the right temperature for your perishables and ensure you always have a fresh and delicious selection of snacks and meals handy.
Remember, proper planning of your road trip snacks and meals can make a huge difference in keeping both you and your kids content and energized throughout your journey. Enjoy your adventure!
If you plan to eat meals in your hotel room, check out our helpful post here!
Promoting Education During the Journey
When taking a road trip with kids, it’s essential to find ways to keep them entertained and engaged while also promoting learning. In this section, you’ll discover creative ways to help your children explore various topics, such as geography, history, and science, while also fostering their problem-solving skills.
Geography and History
One great way to teach geography and history during a road trip is by visiting places of interest along the way. You can provide your children with a map and encourage them to mark the locations they’ve visited. Take advantage of National Geographic’s resources to incorporate fun activities that boost their geographical knowledge.
Encourage your kids to research the local history of each stop and share their findings with the family. This will not only teach them about different cultures but also improve their storytelling skills.
Science and Problem-Solving Skills
Road trips present countless opportunities to learn about science and develop problem-solving skills. For instance, try incorporating fun creative writing activities inspired by your travel experiences. This exercise can stimulate their curiosity about the natural world and the different ecosystems they encounter on the way.
Equally important is teaching your kids to be resourceful by including them in problem-solving situations such as planning the route, setting up camp, or finding a solution to a roadblock. This will not only keep them engaged but also encourage logical thinking and decision-making.
By incorporating these educational road trip activities, you will create a fun and memorable experience for your kids and foster their love for learning.
Safety Measures During the Road Trip
Taking a road trip with kids can be a fun and memorable experience. But ensuring safety throughout the journey is paramount. In this section, we’ll discuss a few safety measures that you can follow during your road trip.
Preparing an Emergency Kit
An emergency kit is essential for every road trip, especially when you have kids on board. Here’s what your emergency kit should include:
- First aid kit: This is a must-have to treat any minor injuries or illnesses that may occur during the trip. It should contain essentials like adhesive bandages, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, and a digital thermometer.
- Prescription medications: Don’t forget to bring along any necessary prescription medications for you and your kids.
- Non-perishable snacks: Pack some non-perishable snacks like granola bars, trail mix, or dried fruit in case you’re unable to make a planned stop due to unforeseen circumstances.
- Flashlight: Ensure you have a working flashlight and extra batteries, just in case you face any issues during night driving.
- Car essentials: This includes items like a spare tire, jumper cables, and a tire pressure gauge.
Take the time to prepare this emergency kit before your trip, so you’re well-equipped for any hiccups during your journey.
Regular Breaks
Driving for long stretches can be exhausting, both for you and your kids. Regular breaks are not only necessary for rest but also help to keep everyone in good spirits. Several benefits of taking regular breaks include:
- Stress reduction: Breaks allow you to stretch your legs, relax, and de-stress, leading to a smoother and safer trip.
- Maintaining alertness: Taking regular breaks to rest and refresh can ensure that you remain alert and focused on your driving.
- Healthy habits: Encourage your kids to be active during breaks. A brief walk or short play session can help break the monotony of sitting in the car for extended periods.
A friendly reminder is to plan your breaks around meal times, rest areas, or even scenic locations, so you get the most out of your stop. Strive to make gas, food, or bathroom breaks double as rest periods for your family.
With these safety measures in place, you and your kids can look forward to an exciting and enjoyable road trip experience.
Accommodations and Stops
Choosing Hotels
When planning a road trip with kids, choosing the right hotels can make a big difference in the overall experience. Look for family-friendly hotels that offer amenities such as swimming pools, play areas, and in-room refrigerators for storing snacks. Many hotels also provide complimentary breakfast, which can save you time and money in the mornings. Be sure to research nearby restaurants that cater to kids, so you can enjoy stress-free meals during your stops.
Roadside Attractions
A key aspect of a fun and memorable road trip with kids is making stops at interesting attractions along the way. From national parks to quirky roadside monuments, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Make a list of attractions you’d like to visit throughout your journey and plan your route accordingly.
National parks offer incredible opportunities to explore nature and engage in outdoor activities. Many parks have designated trails and programs for kids, making them an ideal stop for families. Check the National Park Service website for information on parks along your route, and be sure to pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes.
Don’t forget about family-friendly attractions that provide entertainment and learning opportunities for children. These might include museums, amusement parks, or interactive exhibits focused on topics they’re interested in.
Here are some tips for making your stops enjoyable and hassle-free:
- Plan regular breaks for restrooms and stretching your legs.
- Have a cooler with snacks and drinks handy in the car.
- Bring toys, games, or books to keep kids entertained during the drive.
Remember, the key to a successful road trip with kids is to be flexible and enjoy the journey. With the right accommodations, stops, and a friendly attitude, you’ll create lasting memories for your entire family.
Road Trip with Babies
Taking a road trip with a baby on board can be a daunting task. However, with the right tips and activities, you can make it an enjoyable experience for everyone. To start with, plan your journey by considering the baby’s needs and breaking the journey into manageable segments with stops for playing, eating, and sleeping.
To ensure a smooth ride, try to maintain your baby’s routine as much as possible. One trick is to go through the whole bedtime routine before putting the baby down to sleep in the car seat. That way, your baby will feel more comfortable during the trip, and you will have a more peaceful drive.
Be prepared by packing plenty of diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes for your baby. Keep essentials easily accessible during the trip to avoid unnecessary stops. You can use a car organizer to keep everything tidy and within reach.
Entertainment is key to happy road trips with babies. Consider engaging toys like bristle blocks that can stimulate their creativity and keep them occupied. Soft fabric books are also great for younger babies as they can safely explore textures and colors.
Don’t forget to plan for feeding breaks. If your baby is still breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, make sure you have everything needed for a comfortable and clean feeding session. Snacks like finger foods and sippy cups will come in handy for older babies.
Finally, stay patient and flexible. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, babies may become fussy or need extra attention. Try not to overstress about sticking to the original plan and be willing to make adjustments when necessary. Remember, the important thing is to enjoy the journey and create lasting memories with your baby.
Our Final Thoughts
By following these tips and considering your children’s needs and preferences, you can plan a memorable and stress-free family road trip. Keep in mind that kids may have a harder time sitting for long periods than adults do. Try to remember that they may be bored or antsy. This will help you to respond with understanding. If you plan things well and are prepared, you will have a great time.
One final tip, after you finish your first road trip make sure to take the time with your spouse and even your kids to do a trip recap. Talk about what each person liked and didn’t like. Talk about the things that worked and didn’t work. This is a great way to learn and applying this knowledge will help for better future trips. I know we have learned a lot over the years and have gotten much better at it over time. Remember, vacations should be fun and that includes getting there and going home. Happy travels!
