A family road trip is typically a dreaded endeavor. From the endless bathroom breaks, impatience, and boredom, family bonds are tested in this time. But we endure it all because a lot of good comes from a family road trip!
When done properly, these trips can forge bonds, create memories, and launch you into an adventure en route to the destination. Surviving a family road trip is no easy task, so we compiled the top advice for creating the best family experience on the road.
Rent a Car
This first one might seem odd. If the family already has a car, why rent one? Well, with companies like Car Rentals UK, you can open up your options with a rental.
You can rent a newer model with amenities to ease the trip. Some new cars come with built-in navigation systems, individualized heating/cooling controls, and versatile seating arrangements. This allows you to customize the car interior in a way that might not be possible with the family car.
Plus, a car rental means you will not be adding kilometers to your family car! Why add wear and tear to a vehicle that already handles so much?
Include Children in the Planning
One way to ensure a smooth trip is to include the children in trip planning. Engage all the family members, get them excited, and keep them invested. Kids love working on projects, and a road trip can be an exciting one!
Some planning points include the trip length, places they want to visit along the way, and the final destination. You can even break out a map or use the computer to map out the stops and route to create visuals. This will give the children a voice in deciding the little things and will make a big difference in their overall attitude.
Pack Light and with Intention
Traveling in a car makes it tempting to overpack. With more space than just a carry-on bag, you might throw in more than you need. Avoid this!
Packing too much takes up space and just makes it harder to find what you need when you need it. If the car is brimming with belongings, there will not be as much room for the family. Pack with intention and the knowledge of why each item is needed.
For a road trip, you want to prioritize comfort with loose-fitting clothes and shoes. You will also want necessary items like hand sanitizer and paper towels in case of an accident. Pack with the weather and activities in mind so you are always prepared.
Snacks and Sustenance
Long days on the road make for a grumpy and hungry family. Always be prepared for snack emergencies to cut down on food stops. You will need to do this with thought and intention though.
For example, avoid sugary snacks and drinks. A child on a sugar-high will quickly create a headache for the whole family. Gooey and sticky snacks also create a clean-up mess.
Instead, pack water and other healthy snacks. Granola, nuts, and popcorn are safe options. You can also pack pre-sliced fruits like apples and mandarins. Grapes and strawberries present easy-to-eat road trip snacks.
Entertainment
The key to a great road trip is to prepare entertainment in advance. Boredom will quickly lead to fights and frustration for everyone.
Entertainment options vary and can be picked based upon what your child likes. Some options include a portable DVD player with their favorite movies. Some vehicles that you can get from car rental agencies also will have built-in DVD players that drop down right in front of the passengers. This is even better when they have individual headsets so each child can watch what they prefer.
Audiobooks are also entertaining – potentially for parents, too! To ensure you do not get too bored, download audiobooks to play throughout the trip. This provides a nice break from music and radio ads. Other entertainment options include favorite toys, games, coloring books, physical books, and more.
Make Time for Stops
Finally, road trips are more fun when they are not straight through. Instead, plan stops to rest, recover, and stretch. The family will get a little stir crazy after so many hours on the road.
Switch it up with a scenic stop or a quick walk. You can stop at playgrounds, parks, or even beaches. Leave plenty of time to make the trip so you do not feel rushed and can enjoy the trip as a family. After all, it is the journey and not the destination!