Tired of being cooped up at home? Plan a fun family road trip and get out of the house! Road trips were some of my most cherished memories from my childhood. I remember the anticipation as I waited for the day we left. Now, I get the same excitement when I give my own kids the experience. Although traveling with young kids is not always easy, don’t be intimidated. Proper planning and getting things prepared ahead of time can help make your trip run smoothly. Here are 7 essentials when taking a road trip with kids that will make your time more enjoyable.
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Prepared Snacks!! – Food is always a key component to happiness, kids especially. Thinking ahead in terms of the amount of time you will be on the road and the time you will be leaving is crucial in deciding what and how much to bring. I like to pre-portion everything in easy to hold, to-go containers. This makes things a lot easier once you are on the road and eliminates some of the potential mess.
Scooters – Let the good times roll {Literally!} After hours of sitting in the car on a road trip you will most likely need to take a break from driving to let the kids exert some built up energy. Bringing a scooter will not only come in handy during your pit stop but also once you arrive at your destination. It is the perfect item to bring and keep your child active. It does not take up much space and is sure to exert all that built up energy. Our scooter of choice is the I-Glide scooter. The i-Glide scooter in particular folds up and is by far our favorite. It’s smooth, durable, quiet and best of all has light up wheels. I’ve never seen a bigger smile on my Son’s face as I did when he noticed that the wheels light up! This gave us a perfect excuse to let him stay up past bedtime 😉 and enjoy some extra family time. Click Here and see for yourself and enjoy 15% off with my discount code living15 to get 15% off!
Tablets – Load up the iPad and electronics. I’m not typically the type to say this but I firmly believe that there is a right time and place and this is that time. Driving in silence is golden and most of the time impossible without technology. I would recommend downloading apps that do not need Wi-Fi. If you can tether to your phone hot spot, then you can easily use apps like ABC mouse which can make the screen time educational.
Telescope – So much to do and even more to see being outdoors! Your little explorers will sure be curious so bringing a telescope is a must. The My Discovery Telescope will help them see the world in a new view, up close and personal. My Son loved checking out the moon and stars during nighttime and getting a close up of a pretty bird on our balcony during the day. Fun for everyone as you can each pick an object to explore and report back. Makes for an interesting ‘I-Spy’ game as well out of your car window!
Favorite Toys – Pick toys that are easy to travel with, such as the Magformers that are perfect for the car. They are virtually mess free and have so many ways of keeping the kids entertained. With the different colors, shapes, and structures you can build they will certainly not be bored. They can create houses, towers and even a magic ball with these Magformers. Perfect for brain development, critical thinking, and STEM education. When it is time for clean up, you simply stack and go and continue on your road trip!
Take a seat! For real and bring a booster seat to keep your toddler safe and secure without the hassle of a highchair. We all know it is all fun and games until the kids get hungry so having a seat that makes mealtime easy and hassle free is a no-brainer. The Nest Booster Seat by Oxo is our favorite. It has a soft cushion, high back and makes any chair that much more comfortable for your child. With a 3-point adjustable harness and side release buckles keep your squirming tot secure.
Travel All-in-One Roll Up Bag – The Baby Valet multipurpose bag is so versatile and helps make changing multiple children a breeze during your trip. I store a change of clothes for the road trip in case anyone has any accidents. There are designated spots for a spare top, bottom and even socks. Then once you are at your destination you can change it to your lake day essentials with bathing suit, cover up, sunscreen, etc. You then roll it up and throw it in your beach bag as each child’s belongings are organized and easy to find.
After taking several road trips recently, I can tell you that all of these things have made our lives easier. No matter where you are headed, these items are low maintenance, take up minimal space but more importantly, are ready for when you and your kids need them the most.
