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Going on a road trip with your family can be incredibly exciting, but it can also be extremely stressful if you don’t prepare correctly. Now, if you are a family that has young children, it can be even more challenging to enjoy a long car journey.
You see, the troubles that you face at home won’t disappear just because you’re on a road trip. The tantrums, the crying, and the boredom will most likely present themselves. But, you can’t let these prevent you from creating incredible memories on the road.
So, here are our 10 best ways to survive a long trip with children.
- Take their favorite toys
Occupying your children can be the hardest part. Boredom usually sets in very quickly when it comes to young children. So, taking their favorite toys will keep them quiet and content.
- Take plenty of snacks
The tantrums, crying and whinging occurs when they’re hungry. While you won’t be able to give them full meals, snacks will work wonders. Again, eating will keep them occupied, but keep it healthy as sugar can liven them up.
- Regular pit-stops
Take frequent breaks, even if they’re just 5 minutes long. Kids will benefit from stretching their legs, and if you give them a little run around they’ll burn off some steam. Less steam should mean fewer antics in the car.
- Schedule your trip for when your children usually get tired
If you have young children, you probably have a consistent routine. Now, you’ll know when your children tend to become tired and take naps. Therefore, schedule your trip for when this usually occurs.
- Hire a car for extra features
Hiring a car with extra features can allow you to avoid the boredom aspect. Even if it is just a DVD player in the headrest, your children will love it. Of course, it will cost you, but you can find great deals on somewhere like holidayautos.com. Plus, you can’t put a price on a smooth trip!
- Pack enough clothes and diapers
Snacks and drinks can cause a mess. Additionally, if you have particularly young children, their diapers may start to give off an unpleasant smell. To make sure your trip is as enjoyable as it can be for adults and kids, take enough clothes and diapers.
- Map out the shortest route
Ultimately, you all want to get there as fast as possible. Before you know it you’ll be hearing the typical ‘Are we there yet?’ So, plan and map out the shortest route possible to ensure you get there quickly.
- Keep them warm
Make sure your children are comfortable and cozy. By keeping them warm with blankets and their cuddly toys, they’re more likely to fall asleep.
- Pack essentials
Road trips can often attract the unexpected. Flat tires, headaches, and low fuel are amongst the most common. So, to avoid any unnecessary stress, make sure you pack medicine, first-aid kit, repair tools and a fuel canister etc.
- Set out earlier
If you want to get there by a particular time, give yourself more than enough time to do so. It can take longer than expected to get ready, leave the house and get your children into the car. So, set out earlier than you usually would.