Planning a road trip with kids might seem like a daunting task. You will have to keep the little one well-fed, slept, and entertained while on the toad. If the little one cries throughout the journey, you will have to find a way to calm them while ensuring that the entire family remains safe and sane.
8 Tips for Making a Good Road Trip With Kids Even Better
All parents go through this but planning a road trip with kids is not as difficult as it may sound. There are some ways you can ensure a smooth ride for everyone. Let’s take a look at a few tips.
1. Try not to overdo it
It would be best to remember that infants and toddlers will not have the patience for very long road trips that you might plan. An ideal road trip with toddlers will be of shorter distance and time. Once your kids grow, their attention span expands, and they will be able to sit in the car for an extended time and remain engaged in their activities. If you have to travel long-distance, you must schedule a daytime drive during their nap time.
You can use head supports for car seats to ensure they sleep comfortably in the car without their head falling on either side. If you have a long-distance drive, it is best to break the journey into manageable parts: eating, sleeping, and playing stops. If possible, get in the backseat with the toddler for some part of the road trip.
2. Be an Extra Cautious Driver
Driving with kids can create distractions that you wouldn’t otherwise experience. According to the Barnes Firm, a car accident lawyer in NYC, hundreds of children die in motor vehicle accidents each year, and thousands more are injured. Talk to your children about driving safety, and be sure to have good car seats or booster chairs and good entertainment to keep them distracted from bothering you while you drive.
If your vehicle is not up to par for a long trip or not large enough to provide a comfortable drive, this can also cause unneeded stress. By obtaining a rental car, you can find the perfect car for your trip and avoid excess mileage on your vehicle. Check out StressFreeCarRental.com to find the perfect ride for your road trip with kids.
3. Play in the backseat
When traveling with family or another adult, you can sit in the backseat for a part of the trip. This is an opportunity to bond with the baby. Remember to carry some toys and books and some goodies with you. It will keep them entertained and engaged. When you sit in the backseat with them, they will not feel lonely and remain occupied.
4. Use snacks as a distraction
The best way to divert your little one during the road trip is through a bottle or finger foods. You can use bottles for babies and finger foods for toddlers. You can also join them in the backseat and feed them. Keep them buckled correctly in the car seat so you do not have to hold them constantly when eating. If the little one is still nursing, you may have to schedule stops for mealtime. Pack travel snacks for toddlers, including cheese cubes and chopped foods. Please put them in different containers and provide them with one when they become impatient.
5. Think of all the family members on the trip
Your number priority will be your toddler, but you must not ignore the other family members while you are on the road. It would help if you arrived at the destination safely and sound. Ensure that the vehicle is up to date before you set out and carry an emergency kit. Remember to have a “Baby on Board” sign on the car to protect your little one. Keep loose items like camping gear in the trunk. Ensure that you have enough snacks and water for all the family members.
6. Enjoy music during the journey
Music is a great way to bring the family together at any time. It is an excellent tool to keep families entertained and content during the trip. Carry music that everyone can enjoy and remember to have something for the toddler. If your child has a favorite, remember to carry it with you. It would help if you made a mix of playlists on your phone. Include different melodies that can appeal to everyone traveling with you.
7. Carry a bucket
Many parents will not understand the importance of a bucket until they learn it hard. Always carry a bucket on the road trip and have it within an arm’s distance. If the child has stomach flu or a bout of motion sickness, the bucket will come in handy.
8. Enjoy your favorite movies on the road
You might not allow your kids to watch movies or television at home, but you should consider bending the rules for the trip. You must carry movies that keep them engaged whenever you are on a road trip with a baby or toddler. But make it clear that movies are only an option when away from home so that they do not expect a movie every time they sit in the car.
Planning the Perfect Road Trip With Kids
If you plan well, traveling with kids can be fun. Your toddler might take a good nap in the car if you are fortunate. The first step is to choose the destination. You will not have to worry about the toddler if you get it right. Do not drive too far away. If this is the first road trip, start with a destination closer to home.