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Our family has taken A LOT of road trips thanks to moving, living away from family, and the military. Some have gone extremely smooth and others have been a complete mess!
Before you panic and change your plans keep reading for tips and tricks. You’re probably extremely stressed right now thinking about everything you need to get done before your trip, but I encourage you to take a second and BREATH.
But first I encourage you to also lower your expectations. 😂
No amount of preparation and planning can stop the inevitable. With kids, there are simply no guarantees. Chances are there will be some tears, some screams, and a few messes. Let go of your picture-perfect idea of how this trip should go and give your kids and yourself some grace! Just breathe, you’ve got this!
I have learned so much over the years, so I compiled a list of my go-to items you need for the car, the kids, and for YOU!
1. Backseat Organizer
It’s hard enough fitting all of your luggage in the car for a road trip so when you in things to keep the kids busy, it can get super overwhelming. Enter the seat back organizer, it’s super helpful and helps keep those little feet from dirtying up the back of your seat. https://amzn.to/3WzKIFZ
2. Travel Pillow
Pillows are a must when it comes to road trips, but full-size pillows take up a lot of room. Neck pillows are the perfect compromise. Plus who wants to hear “his pillow is touching me” the entire time? Plus with this one, there are over 10 colors to pick from. https://amzn.to/44Fitrx
3. Roadside Emergency Kit
It’s always a great idea to have an emergency roadside kit in your vehicle before you head out. Be sure to have jumper cables in case your battery dies.https://amzn.to/4bn8s4y
4. First Aid Kit
Another one of those things to pack is a simple first aid kit. Keep it in your vehicle, even after the trip, you never know when you might need it. https://amzn.to/3JSbGRM
5. Mama’s Sanity Savers
No, I’m not talking about wine. 😉 I’m talking about Baby wipes, Tissues, and Hand Sanitizer, the things you always need but never seem to have. Pro Tip, put them in a cute little bag (cute bags make things better) and keep them in your car even after the trip. How cute is this bag?https://amzn.to/4dBQCws
6. Water Bottles
The Simple Modern water bottle is my favorite for kids! It’s sturdy, easy to drink out of, easy to hold, and leakproof. Check out the fun designs here: https://amzn.to/3UEbcUb
7. Pop-Up Trash Can
How many times during a long car ride have you had a wrapper or empty water bottle that you didn’t know what to do with, only to throw it in the ground or shove it in the side of the door? Problem solved with the pop-up trash can! Here’s our favorite: https://amzn.to/4bcyAzr
8. Road Trip Games
Games do help pass the time! Here is a FREE Roadtrip BINGO Printable! Here is the link to print out 4 Bingo Boards for FREE! https://conversationswithcolton.com/product/road-trip-bingo-free-printable/
9. Books! Activity, Sticker Books, and More!
I love a mix of both new activities and tried and true favorites to keep my kiddo occupied. While we’re all tempted by screens, I like to start with interactive books and activities that spark creativity and curiosity. Our Magic Paint Books are virtually mess FREE and only require water. They are the best! Here is a link to our favorites: https://paperpie.com/brandpartner/F6573/bookshelf/24465
10. A Surprise For Your Kids!
Eventually, kids will hit a wall and will be OVER sitting in the car. This is the perfect time for a little surprise pick-me-up. Packing a secret mini-surprise works. It can be something as simple as a new book, kinder egg, or small toy. I handed my son a glow stick once during a late driving night and it was a bit hit.
11. YOU’RE PATIENCE (consider this a bonus tip 😉)
This might be the biggest thing to bring with you! Road trips provide memories that last a lifetime but can be highly stressful, too. When it’s frustrating or agitating, take a deep breath and just remember why you’re on the road trip.
Road trips are a great way to see the country. You can stop anywhere along the way, see the countryside, and spend time with your family, friends, or partner! What other tips would you add to my list? I can’t wait to hear! xoxo Julie