With summer just around the bend, the season of family road trips has officially commenced. Whether you intend to visit distant relatives or journey to an exciting new destination, traveling with children isn’t always easy. Don’t be deterred: traveling with your kids can be a breeze, as long as you’re properly prepared. Eliminate the resonating, “are we there yet?” and replace it instead with the most up-to-date games and entertainment for your youngsters. Before enduring the miles ahead, here are some must-haves to help keep your kids busy during your journey:
Mealtime: Healthy Snacks
Bringing meals and/or snacks on your road trip is a no brainer; however, bringing the right types of foods makes all the difference. Avoid foods that are sugary, salty or fatty. Aim instead for treats that provide more nutritional value. Plan ahead by packing carrots, unsalted nuts, apple slices, or deli meats with cheese. By skipping the urge to grab fast food, you’ll spare your child from the roller coaster that is the sugar rush. For additional information on appropriate snacks, check out these healthy tips designed for road trippers.
Tech Toys
Long gone are the days of slug bug and guessing games. Now, it’s all about technology. From educational games like Math Ninja to the ever-popular Angry Birds, you’re guaranteed to keep your little guys entertained and engaged. Whether you’re using an iPad, iPhone, tablet, iPod or a handheld gaming console, your entertainment possibilities are endless. Download some of your child’s favorite music or Disney movies onto your iPad before taking off. Ask them what they’d most enjoy, be it cartoons, games or music. Chances are they have a better idea of what will keep them best entertained during your trek. Consider pairing noise-canceling headphones as an added bonus. Amazon has a large assortment of over-ear and earbud options to fit any budget. Lastly, don’t forget to pack a car charger.
Get Creative
If tech toys aren’t your thing or don’t really fit within your budget, there are plenty of other ways to keep your children entertained during your trip. Turn your backseat into a quasi fort, complete with their favorite books or magazines. Consider having your child help you plan the route your drive. Pull out a big map and offer a choice of potential kid-friendly destinations or pit stops. This will help to break up the drive and pass the time. Purchase a small scrapbook or disposable camera and encourage him or her to document your travels. This blog article offers some great examples of ways to capture your trip together.
Be Prepared For The Worst
Though illnesses and accidents are never scheduled, be sure to bring with you whatever you may need should something occur. Carsickness, messy foods, spilled beverages, and other unfortunate mishaps (flat tires, etc.) can be easily resolved if the proper materials are readily available. Bring with you a basic first aid kit that you can store in your trunk or under a seat. Check your spare and make sure you have a changing kit with you. Ensure you have plenty of water in addition to blankets and at least a single flashlight.
Road trips are supposed to be fun, so relax! Opt for the scenic route and take the time to absorb your surroundings.
