If you’re planning a road trip with your kids, you’ll likely be looking forward to getting on the open road and introducing your family to some spectacular scenery and new experiences while spending quality time with each other and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
While you can’t guarantee peace at all times and a backseat free of bickering or whining, you can certainly make the journey as safe, enjoyable, and as comfortable as you can. Before setting off on your grand adventure, make sure to bring the following essentials with you.
If you have a baby or small children, you will need to fit a car seat that is suitable for their age and height. Not only are these seats required by law, but they will also give your child’s head and back the support needed for them to sit and sleep comfortably.
Booster seats will be required for older children who are around eight to 12 years old to lift them up so that the seat belt fits them correctly and protects them in the event of an accident.
Booster seats come in a variety of different styles, including high-back boosters, combination car seats and backless boosters. You can find a range of different color booster seats here.
Healthy Snacks and Drinks
While giving your kids sugary treats such as candy bars, cookies and sodas may perk them up and fill their tummies temporarily, once the sugar rush wears off they may experience a sugar crash which can affect their mood making them tired and irritable and more prone to a temper tantrum.
Instead, it is better to sustain their energy levels by bringing along some healthy and nutritious snacks and drinks which will help them fight off any fatigue, act as a delicious treat, and satisfy any hunger pangs between meals. For some snack-time inspiration, consider the following:
- Granola or cereal bars
- Trail mix
- Veggie pita pockets
- Oatmeal cookies
- Fruit smoothies
These healthy snacks are a great way to introduce some extra nutrients into your kid’s diet.
Entertainment
Keeping your children entertained on long car rides can be challenging and boredom canbegin to set in causing them to become restless and rowdy.
To keep things in check makesure to pack a selection of games, puzzles, coloring books and crayons to absorb their attention and make the journey more enjoyable for them.
Another tip is to download some of their favorite audiobooks for them to listen to in the car. Storytelling will capture their imaginations while non-fiction podcasts for kids can get them to concentrate as they learn something interesting and new.
It’s also a good idea to pack some playthings for pit stops and breaks such as a soccer ball, frisbee, jump rope, or a few bottles of bubbles. Not only will this keep your kids entertained during a rest stop at the beach or park, but will also help them stay active and burn off any excess energy and sleep better during the remainder of your drive.
With the items mentioned above in tow, you can ensure you have everything you need to make your road trip as enjoyable as you can for you and your kids.