Road tripping with kids can be a daunting task for most families, but it doesn’t have to be. Today I’m going to talk about road tripping with your kids and all the tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way.
One of the most frequently asked questions that I get is how do your kids handle being in the car for so long? Now, it isn't easy, but there are ways to make car journeys more enjoyable, so let’s get into it.
Plot Your Trip on a Map
One of the first things I like to do when heading out on a road trip is put the destination into Google Maps on my computer. The reason I do this is because that way, I can really see the path that we are taking, the states we pass through, and the different amenities in the area.
With phones, the screen is small, and it doesn’t give you the same information as a computer does, so putting your destination into Google Maps on your computer really brings up everything you need. You could also consider buying a map so you can see all the towns between you and your destination.
Sometimes, when you’re driving, and you haven’t set a goal for getting somewhere before lunch, for example, it can be a lot more taxing. For my family, we like to look at the destinations along the way, plan our trip, and see if there is something we can do to break up the journey.
On a map, you can look for Walmarts with parking lots you can sleep in, Targets for snacks and other items, or even Starbucks for a much-needed cup of coffee. Do the research beforehand and find things that the kids will enjoy, like playgrounds or things just off the highway. That way, your kids can burn off some energy, stretch their legs, and get a break from their car seat.
Screen Time
Something I do allow in the car is screen time, however, we have rules set in place. My kids typically get more screen time in the car, which makes them excited for long journeys, but they do have to earn this time.
My son, Tucker, for example, can read, so he has to read for the same amount of time that he has on the screen. If it is a longer drive, then we mix up the things he has to do, like writing something in his journal or drawing a picture, so he has a balance between something engaging and his screen.
Play Games
You can’t go on a road trip and not play road trip games, so we like to look up different games we can play as a family to help pass the time. One game we like to play is name the animal, which is a yes or no question-based game. It’s pretty simple, someone thinks of an animal, and the other players have to ask different yes or no questions to try and figure out the animal.
Take the Time to Relax and Pause
While out on the road, allow yourself and your kids time to pause and relax. We do this because when we’re constantly thinking about moving ahead, it can get challenging to take that moment to pause.
Once you get to your destination, there will be a whole new hustle that you have to think about, so make sure you’re giving yourself time to relax. Enjoy the drive, enjoy your lunch, have an extra cup of coffee if you have to, and just chill.
Plan Ahead
Stops on road trips are inevitable because you’re going to have to stop for food or the toilet at some point throughout your journey. To cut down on random stops, however, you can plan ahead.
We like to pack toy bags for the kids, so they always have something to play with. We have their water bottles and snacks in the car. And Nick and I also tend to pack our own snack bags and water bottles to make sure that we don’t have to pull over because we’re hungry or thirsty.
In terms of bathroom breaks, we make sure everyone goes whenever we stop at a gas station. In doing this, you can cut down on so many random bathroom break stops, so definitely consider preparing yourself before you set off on the road.
If you liked this post covering activities for adventurous families, check out the post on our Family Adventure in Niagara Falls Ontario!
Clothing: Cotopaxi Kids Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker, Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket
Camera: GoPro Hero 11
