Between the constant bathroom breaks and the never-ending chorus of “Are we there yet?”, it’s no wonder that many parents dread the idea of hitting the open road with their little ones.
But with a little planning and some tried-and-true road trip hacks, you can turn a potentially nerve-wracking experience into a fun and memorable adventure.
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In this article, I’m going to be sharing ten road trip hacks that will help you keep your sanity intact and create lasting family memories while on the road.
So let’s get to it.
Major League Mommy’s Top Road Trip Hacks
Pack Smart, Travel Light
One of the most essential road trip hacks is to pack smart and travel light.
When traveling with kids, it’s easy to overpack, bringing along every toy and gadget in your household.
However, packing light can not only save you space but also make your journey more comfortable.
To begin with, assess your family’s needs and pack accordingly. Make a list of the essentials, such as clothes, toiletries, medications, etc.
Next, opt for versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched, reducing the amount of clothing you need to pack.
Finally, invest in travel-size containers for toiletries and only carry the amount you need. With these tips, you’ll be able to pack efficiently and travel fuss-free.
There’s nothing worse than traveling long distances in an overstuffed vehicle.
Map Out Your Route Ahead of Time
Another way to ensure a stress-free family road trip is to map out your route ahead of time.
Sure, part of the fun of a road trip is the spontaneity and adventure of exploring new places, but having a general idea of where you’re going can save you time, money, and stress.
Before setting out on your journey, research your destination and determine the best and most efficient route to take.
Consider the time of day, traffic patterns, and any potential construction or road closures. Use a GPS device or map to plan your stops and identify rest areas, gas stations, and food options along the way.
Mapping out your route ahead of time can also help you budget and save on expenses. With a plan in place, you can estimate the cost of gas and budget for meals and activities at your destination.
Not to mention, having a route can ease the anxiety of getting lost and reduce arguments or tension among passengers.
Snacks and Drinks Galore
While mapping out your trip and packing efficiently may help you save money and reduce stress, there is one aspect of road trip planning that should DEFINITELY not be overlooked: snacks and drinks.
Let’s face it, a road trip without snacks and drinks is like a beach vacation without sunshine – it’s just not as enjoyable.
So, when preparing for your trip, make a list of snacks and drinks that will keep everyone happy and satisfied.
Consider items that are easy to pack and store, like granola bars, trail mix, and fruit snacks. For drinks, make sure you have plenty of water and juice boxes or sports drinks for the kids. And don’t forget to make a stop for hot coffee and/or tea for the adults!
Note: Don’t forget to bring along a good selection of healthy snacks so you can all keep your health in check while on the road.
The right snacks and drinks can make a long drive much more enjoyable for everyone.
Not only do they help keep hunger and thirst at bay, but they can also provide a distraction from the monotony of the road. So, stock up on your family’s favorites so you can hit the road with confidence.
Bring Along Some Entertainment
As much as we wish our loved ones would spend hours looking outside the window, enjoying the scenery, that’s just not the reality of things. You’ll need to provide more stimulation to keep everyone from going stir-crazy.
First on the list: audiobooks. By listening to stories, you can keep everyone engaged in the same thing, and (hopefully) reduce any fighting. Choose a book that everyone can enjoy, or take turns letting each person pick their favorite.
My family particularly enjoys mysteries, so we love to stay ready with a selection of audiobooks in this genre. With mysteries, we are more engaged because we are actively listening and try to solve the mystery before the book ends.
Another option is playing games like “I Spy” or the license plate game. These classics require very little preparation and can keep you occupied for hours.
For older kids and adults, consider bringing along board games or card games, as long as they won’t be too difficult to play in a moving car.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of technology. Tablets, phones, and laptops can be a lifesaver when it comes to keeping the peace on a long road trip.
Load up on movies, TV shows, and games that you know everyone will enjoy. Just make sure to set some ground rules to avoid anyone getting car sick from too much screen time.
Plan for Pit Stops
Sure, we love the idea of hitting the road and taking off on an adventure, but the reality is that long road trips can be tiring, cramped, and uncomfortable.
It’s essential to plan breaks in your journey to stretch your legs, hit the bathroom, and grab a snack. Not only will these pit stops keep everyone fresh and re-energized, but they’ll also give you a chance to explore new places, try local food, and discover some hidden gems.
To plan for pit stops on your road trip, check your map ahead of time (see hack #2) and look for interesting towns, rest areas, or roadside attractions that might be worth a visit.
If you have young kids, look for parks, playgrounds, or open spaces where they can run around and burn off some energy.
If you’re traveling with pets, make sure to factor in pet-friendly rest stops and make sure your furry friend has enough water and food to keep them happy and healthy.
By taking regular breaks and planning your pit stops in advance, you’ll be able to enjoy your road trip without feeling rushed or stressed.
Plus, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to create new memories and experiences with your family.
Keep Hygiene in Mind
This tip is one of the road trip hacks, you definitely don’t want to skip.
To fully enjoy your family road trip, it’s important to keep hygiene in mind. A long car ride can quickly become uncomfortable and unpleasant if everyone is feeling grimy and unclean.
To prevent this, pack essentials like hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and tissues. These can all come in handy for quickly cleaning hands, wiping down surfaces, and freshening up after meals.
In addition to these basics, make sure you pack a small toiletry bag with items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, and facial wipes. This will help everyone feel fresh and renewed, even after hours spent in the car.
And don’t forget about staying hydrated – bring plenty of water bottles and refill them at rest stops to make sure everyone stays healthy and refreshed.
By taking the time to prioritize hygiene, you’ll help ensure that everyone remains comfortable and happy throughout the journey.
Stay Comfy and Cozy
To have a truly stress-free family road trip, it’s important to prioritize everyone’s comfort.
Start by making sure everyone has their own designated space in the car with plenty of legroom to stretch out.
Consider bringing cozy blankets and pillows to make napping on the go more comfortable. For added comfort, bring along a small cooler with snacks and drinks to enjoy throughout the journey.
Another key aspect of staying comfy and cozy during a long drive is dressing appropriately. Opt for loose-fitting and breathable clothing to avoid feeling constricted or overheated.
Make sure everyone is wearing comfortable footwear, as well, as no one wants to spend hours in a car with uncomfortable shoes.
By prioritizing comfort and taking steps to stay cozy and refreshed, your family road trip is sure to be a success.
Safety First
Alright, let’s talk about one of the most important road trip hacks.
Before embarking on a family road trip, it’s important to prioritize safety. One of the key ways to ensure everyone stays safe is by making sure your vehicle is in good working order.
Schedule a tune-up with a mechanic to check that all major systems are functioning properly, especially the brakes, tires, and lights.
Don’t forget to also pack an emergency kit with essentials like water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a flashlight.
Another crucial factor in keeping everyone safe is ensuring everyone is properly buckled up.
By taking these steps to prioritize safety, you can relax and enjoy the ride knowing that you’ve done everything in your power to keep your family secure.
Capture the Moment
As you gear up for your family road trip, don’t forget to pack your camera and smartphone. Road trips are full of beautiful scenery, spontaneous moments, and unexpected adventures that are worth capturing.
Whether it’s a stunning sunset, a roadside attraction, or a funny sign, taking photos can help you remember the trip for years to come.
But capturing the moment doesn’t stop at just taking photos. Encourage your family members to get involved and take their own photos or videos.
You could even make a game out of it by setting up a scavenger hunt for specific items or landmarks to photograph along the way.
Don’t forget to also take advantage of technology to document your trip. Many apps and websites allow you to create digital scrapbooks or photo albums that you can easily share with family and friends.
By embracing the art of capturing the moment, you’ll be able to relive the memories long after the road trip is over.
And who knows, you might just capture that perfect shot that becomes the highlight of your trip.
Embrace the Unexpected
Once you hit the road, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the plans and schedules you’ve set for your family road trip. However, it’s important to remember that unexpected things can happen, and sometimes the best moments come from these surprises.
Maybe you stumble upon a scenic lookout point that wasn’t part of your itinerary or discover a charming small town that you never knew existed.
By embracing the unexpected, you open yourself up to new experiences and possibilities.
So, if your GPS takes you on a detour or your planned activity gets canceled due to the weather, don’t stress. Take a deep breath, and see where the road takes you.
Sometimes the most memorable moments on a trip are the ones that were never planned.
Embracing the unexpected can also mean letting go of control and allowing your children to take the lead. Let them choose the music, the snack stops, and even some of the activities. Sometimes, the best experiences can come from something as simple as a spontaneous game of “I Spy” or an unplanned picnic in a park.
Ultimately, by embracing the unpredictability of a family road trip, you’ll make memories that will last a lifetime. So, don’t be afraid to stray from the beaten path and step out of your comfort zone.
You might just discover something amazing.
Wrapping Up
Taking a family road trip doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By packing smart, planning ahead, and prioritizing safety, you can create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Remember to keep snacks and entertainment on hand, plan for pit stops, and embrace the unexpected.
So what are you waiting for? Put these road trip hacks to use ASAP and start planning your stress-free family road trip today!
Briana Marie is a mental health and financial literacy advocate, and founder of Major League Mommy. In her spare time, Briana enjoys yoga, travel, and spending time with her Husband and two daughters.
