Road tripping with the family is the best way to make sure you’re really seeing the land; ensuring that you won’t miss a single mountain scape, scenic overlook, covered bridge, dive diner, and all of the things in between. Although it could make an ideal vacation, packing up the whole family for a road trip can be super overwhelming. No worries, we got you covered. Here’s a comprehensive list of things we would consider essential for traveling with your pack.
- Google Maps. Okay, this may seem like a no-brainer by today’s standards, but even if you know where you’re going, Google Maps is great to have up and going so you can scope out nearby restaurants, rest stops, gas stations, or cool stopping points.
- An easy-to-pack outdoor activity such as a ball or frisbee. This way, when you stop at a rest stop for bathroom breaks or a picnic, the family can burn off some energy too. These things are lightweight and easy to pack.
- Device charging port/batteries. The last thing anyone wants on a road trip is for an electronic to die or a device to run out of battery juice. Make sure you have a way to charge devices and carry a few extra batteries with you. These can be easily tossed into the glove box for safe keeping.
- Car seat organizer. A car seat organizer that slips over the back of both the drive and passenger seats are a great way to keep things organized. For bigger kids, this is also a great way for them to pick and choose what they want to do.
- UV window shade. Window shades aren’t a bad thing to have in the car, especially during a long ride, just in case it’s extra sunny or for the smaller passengers in the rear that are trying to get some shut eye.
- Coloring/activity books. Coloring and activity books are a creative way to pass the time on long car rides. Just make sure each tribe member has their own box of crayons or colored pencils so there is less arguing.
- First Aid Kit. Again, this may seem like a no-brainer when traveling with little ones, but it’s one of those things that may easily be forgotten until you really need something out of it. Make sure you’ve got plenty of first aid ointment, bandaids, sunscreen, bug spray, and alcohol pads for any of life’s little inconveniences.
- Healthy snacks. A snack bag is truly an essential. When boredom ensues, it’s not unusual for snacking to occur. Opt for healthier snacks such as beef jerky, protein bars, trail mix, or popcorn.
- iPad/Tablet/DVD player. Never be afraid to bust out some technology on a road trip. Kids love it and it will keep them engaged in something quietly for a little while. Since different videos and games playing all at once can be headache inducing, consider getting each kiddo their own set of headphones.
- A backpack of their own toys. Let your little daytrippers pack their own backpack of their own toys for the trip. This way they’ll get to choose exactly what they want to go with them.
- Mini cooler. Mini coolers take up minimal space (it’s in the name!) and they can store extra water, as well as more snacking options. Water is perhaps the most important thing to pack when going on a trip, and although you could buy some on the way, you might find yourself driving for hours with no rest stops or stores along the way.
- Reusable water bottles. Before you leave, make sure each family member has their own reusable water bottle for the trip. Drinks will stay colder longer and reusable bottles are much better on the environment.
- Wet wipes and napkins. Some say one or the other, we say both. Some messes require a dry wipe, others a wet one. This way you’ll be prepared for whatever spill may come your way, or simply for cleaning up after a picnic.
- Comfort items. Don’t forget that favorite blanket or stuffed animal. Going to new places, even with your family, can be a little overwhelming for little ones; having their favorite snuggly item from home may make everyone’s day go a little smoother.
- This one might sound cheesy, but we’ll say it anyway: Lots and lots of patience. Road trips can be exhausting and stressful no matter who is on the journey with you, just remember why you’re going in the first place. Don’t forget to enjoy the ride!
