We’re taking our second summer road trip this week. We’re driving 10 hours with four kids to see my in-laws.
How do you maintain your sanity during those long hours on the road? Be prepared with entertainment and snacks, and be prepared to make frequent stops. Kids have short attention spans and small bladders. Plan as much of the trip as you can to give them (and you) breaks from the road.
1. Entertainment— drawing pads, iPads, their favorite toys. Start low-tech and move up to electronics as the trip goes on. Our car turns into a concert. For the most part, that tends to soothe my crew. My seven year old also likes to follow along the route with his iPad and announce where we are.
2. A fully stocked car— that includes snacks, blankets, toys, first aid kit, plastic bags & extra clothes (in case of spills or car sickness). Have everything you could need within reach and out of the trunk.
3. Frequent Stops— with toddlers, we count on stopping every 2-3 hours. I like to have a general plan that includes possible rest stops and when we’re going to eat. I tend to choose gas stations with restaurants, or chains that I am familiar with. They tend to have cleaner bathrooms. And, of course, we will always hit up a Bucee’s if it’s on our route.
What are some of your tips for the road? What’s the longest road trip you’ve ever taken? I’d love to know.
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