Whether it is a long-weekend, March Break, Summer Break or you have decided to play hooky from work and school - taking a road trip is always a good idea.
If you are considering a road trip with the kids, there is flexibility that comes with it, but also lots of preparation. Wherever, you decide to venture off to - we have some tips to help you get to your destination without regretting taking the kids!
PACK SNACKS - If you think you have packed enough snacks ... pack some more! Try packing veggies, fruit, sandwiches and plenty of water. Granola bars, crackers and cheese are also perfect finger foods that you can toss to the back seat when someone is feeling hungry. Note - make sure to keep everything in a cooler that is accessible by you or your kids (if old enough) so you don't have to pull-over ir go-go gadget your arms.
ACTIVITIES - make sure you have planned enough entertainment for your kids. Obviously, for older kids it cam be easier (for instance my 11-year old is good with wireless headphones and an unlimited playlist). Pack activity books crayons or pencil crayons (no one needs markers on the seats). Also, pack a clipboard so they have a hard surface to draw or colour on. Another tip is to buy a few activities and surprise them with it during the road trip. So it is something new and exciting and will hold their attention for longer (the dollar store is a great place to gather items like this).
ELECTRONICS - I know many people feel differently about electronics and we totally understand that we want to limit it - however, for an exceptionally long trip - a movie loaded onto an iPad with headphones might give everyone that hour they need of quiet if they are becoming antsy.
BATHROOM BREAKS - no one wants to stop more than they need to - but take the time to make stops for bathroom breaks, but also to stretch out - take in the sights of the places leading to your destination. Park for a little while and chat outside while the kids run off that extra energy.
ENJOY - remember these family trips only happen for a number of years - so enjoy all the moments!
At the OLVE, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. We are not affiliated nor do we have an advertising partnerships with the brands we may feature.