Tips for Road Trips with Young Kids

Jen Naye Herrmann — Road trip tips with kids

Tips for Road Trips with Young Kids

Taking the kids on a road trip can be a great way to travel on a budget as a family. But let's be honest, it can also be a recipe for disaster. To help you minimize meltdowns (yours or your child's), here are some tips for making the most of your next road trip with kids.

 

1. Talk to your kids about the trip before you leave.

Explain where you're going, how long it will take to get there, and what they can expect along the way. This will help manage their expectations and prevent any surprises that could lead to a tantrum.

 

2. Make sure there's plenty for them to do.

Stock up on books, toys, puzzles, games, tablets and anything else that will keep them occupied during the ride. It's also a good idea to download some new apps or movies onto your phone or tablet so they have something new to entertain themselves with.

3. Keep them fed and hydrated.

Hunger and thirst are two of the main triggers for tantrums, so make sure you have plenty of snacks and drinks on hand. And while sugary snacks might seem like an easy way to keep them happy, they'll only end up crashing later on. So try to stick to healthy options like fruits, vegetables, whole grain crackers, etc. 

 

4. Take breaks often.

Driving for hours on end is tough for anyone, let alone kids who have limited patience. So plan to take breaks every few hours so everyone can stretch their legs, use the restroom, and grab a bite to eat. These pit stops will not only help keep everyone happy but they'll also help prevent fatigue which can lead to mistakes on the road. 

 

5. Be prepared for anything...and we mean anything!

From spillages to sudden sickness, you never know what might happen when you're on the road with kids. So make sure you have wet wipes, paper towels, garbage bags, spare clothes, Band-Aids, children's Tylenol, etc., within reach at all times. 

Road trips with kids can be enjoyable for the whole family if you plan ahead, stay flexible, and are prepared for anything (and we mean anything). By following these tips, you can help ensure that your next road trip is smooth sailing from start to finish.

 

 
 
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