Road trips always seem like a great idea, but when there are kids in tow, it's not always as free-wheeling as one may have imagined. There's likely to be fidgeting, potty breaks, and are-we-there-yets, punctuated by the occasional, but often brief, nap-induced silence. But, it needn't be so. While every road trip involves an inevitable speed bump or two, here are a few suggestions for a smooth ride to keep smiles and sanity intact.
Planning:
As with any venture, adequate planning and organization are worth the energy. Make checklists for all the possible eventualities – unexpected illness, clothing needs, snack options, messes, comfort, and boredom – and keep any immediate necessities within reach and, preferably, organized into separate bins for ease of access and clean-up.
Messes:
Wet wipes, facial tissue, water, and plastic bags are all critical for clean-ups. Have all these items within easy reach during the entire trip, possibly even putting small packages that include some of each in each child's door or the seatback pocket.
Illness:
Carsickness is real and can hit kids unexpectedly, particularly young children who often can't voice how they feel until vomit voices it for them. If your children are old enough, consider keeping Dramamine on hand. Keeping the car temperature cool and having any children that are especially sensitive to travel sit up front and/or near windows can also be helpful. Don't have children travel on an empty stomach, keep them hydrated, and offer ginger ale or lozenges to settle the stomach. Reading and screen time can trigger motion sickness, so have children take breaks often. Be prepared with sick bags, cleaning supplies, a change of clothes, and an air freshener just in case.
Clothing:
Aim to keep the car temperature cool and air flowing as much as possible, so pack extra layers accordingly. You'll also want to include an easily accessible change of clothes (or two) for any children in diapers or in the initial stages of potty training. And, as aforementioned, if you have a child that's sensitive to travel, plan for extra clothes in case they get sick.
Comfort:
Road trips are prime time for cuddling and creature comforts. Make sure your children bring their favorite blankets or stuffed animals, a pillow, and any other cozy additions that might make their space and time in the car more comfortable.
Snacks:
Fill a cooler with healthy snack and drink options: not only will you save money on gas station pit-stops, but you'll be able to pack in some nutrition, which can help mitigate mood swings and travel sickness. Plan for minimally messy foods that are easily consumable, won't spike blood sugar, and will keep your kids satiated. Fresh fruit, yogurt tubes, cheese sticks, jerky, trail mixes, nuts, water, low-sugar juices, and electrolyte-spiked drinks are all great options.
Boredom:
Road trips aren't the time to adhere to stringent screen-time standards, at least not if you value your sanity. That said, sprinkle movies or shows in with curated playlists, quiet/reading time, art activities, car bingo, or basic games/toys to help your kids pass the time as easily – and happily – as possible. Download a few new apps, or purchase a special book, magazine, or small toy for a novel surprise. Paper maps allowing your child to explore and follow the route can also be an amusing addition.
Finally, take breaks frequently and be reasonable with expectations, for both you and your children; consider covering long legs of the trip during nighttime hours; and during the day, get out of the car and do some stretches or take brief walks. After all, it's as much about the ride as the destination.
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