Road Trip! 10 Essential Things to Keep Everyone Happy
It seemed like every time we turned around this year, we were hitting the road. From visiting family to soccer tournaments, we have driven to destinations near and far. When going on a road trip with kids, it’s essential to keep them entertained and happy throughout the journey. Here’s a list of things you might want to consider bringing along:
1. Snacks and Drinks
Pack a variety of healthy and tasty snacks, such as fruits, pretzels, granola bars, and cut-up vegetables. Having a mix of sweet and savory options can help satisfy different cravings. Carry plenty of water and other child-friendly beverages to keep them hydrated. Avoid excessive sugary drinks that may lead to restlessness or frequent bathroom breaks.
2. Entertainment devices
Tablets loaded with their favorite movies, shows, or educational apps or portable gaming devices can be a lifesaver. Don’t forget headphones to avoid disturbing other passengers (i.e., keeping other little ones from naps!).
3. Books and Audiobooks
A trip to the library or local bookstore is always a winning idea! Take time to grab a few books for the road. Engaging audio content, like storybooks, podcasts, or educational programs, can also keep kids entertained while stimulating their imagination and learning.
4. Music
Relaxing music or sing-alongs can be a fun and interactive way to pass the time. For example, a mix of Chill and Kids’ Bop seems to do the trick in our car.
5. Travel games
Pack travel-friendly games like magnetic board games, card games, or handheld electronic games. Classics like “I Spy” or the “License Plate Game” can also be enjoyable. A printable “Road Trip Bingo” can also pass time.
6. Comfort items
Bring their favorite blankets, stuffed animals, or pillows for added comfort and familiarity during the journey.
7. Travel-Friendly Toys
Choose small, portable toys that can keep them engaged without taking up too much space. Examples include puzzles, coloring books, building blocks, action figures, or dolls. A fun option for getting these (if you don’t already have toys that travel well) is the 5 minute dollar store challenge – kids have 5 minutes to grab a limited amount of travel toys at Dollar Tree or a similar store. This brings much excitement for the car ride ahead!
8. Travel journals
Encourage older kids to document their experiences by giving them a travel journal or notebook. They can write or draw about their favorite moments or destinations.
9. Organization Caddy
This will keep snacks, drinks, toys, and devices organized and easy to find and mostly out of the way to keep the ride as clutter free as possible. Here is the one we use on our road trips.
10. Break stops
Plan regular breaks to let kids stretch their legs, use the restroom, and burn off some energy. Look for parks or playgrounds along the way where they can run around and play, if time allows.
Along with these essential things to keep everyone happy on a road trip, remember that safety is always a priority. Ensure that everyone is properly buckled in before enjoying the journey!
