Some people love road trips- those people generally don’t have kids. Why you ask? Because road trips are essentially a mobility restricting patience marathon, where the people in the car have no concept of time. Spring break is around the corner, which is one of the most popular times for a family trip. So if this is in your future journeys, look no further. Here is 12 tips to avoid road trip hell.
- Safety first.
Get your car tuned up, check that the car seats fit, and set up an emergency kit for your car. It is better to do it ahead of time, instead of clamoring in the moment to make things work.
- Lots of activities.
Magnet games, dot to dots, word searches- these are all good options for car games. It is also good to point out things for them to look at outside the car and have them tell you their opinion about them.
- Minimize screen time.
I know, I know. But hear me out. I don’t want you to eliminate it, just limit it as much as possible. If they are not zoned out on their tablets, they are more likely to want to get out and engage in the environment. They also are more likely to nap during normal naps times if they are not distracting themselves out of their routine.
- Let them be bored.
Boredom fuels creativity. They can even bond with each other due to this severe boredom and create silly family memories.
- Resolving conflict.
At some point someone is going to be in someone else’s space or will be ‘breathing their air’. They are going to get on each others nerves and probably yours too. So take time to calmly pull over, don’t yell, and take a little break. During the break everyone can move (breath fresh air) and you can either create a barrier in between the seats/switch up seating arrangements or set up new distractions (snacks, games, electronics, etc).
- Stop. Often.
Add lots of breaks to your plan and work it into your time schedule. Stop for potty breaks and to move around. Find parks on the route or tourist attractions to distract and engage their little bored brains. You can play tag, grab some lunch, and even find a gym to workout at.
*If you are potty training, do yourself a solid and put a diaper on them for the trip. This will prevent mess and reduces stops were they really didn’t need to pee but thought they might. It’s simply better for your sanity.*
- Get an old fashion paper map.
As google maps takes over, paper maps are seen less and less. Think of this as a history lesson for your kids. Teach them how to use it and see if they can figure out where you guys are. This is also neat for your kids to see the area in its entirety and how small we are compared to the state we live in.
- Make it an adventure.
Try to find new and exciting things to do on your road trip. For example, finding a small town ice cream shop to visit on your route. Even peeing on the side of the road can be an adventure.
- Audio books.
Audio books while you drive are the best because everyone can use their imaginations and usually everyone is quickly listening. Adventure, fantasy, and mystery books are great at keeping the interest and excitement.
- Bring wipes.
Wipes are truly the swiss army knife of parenting, so bring a lot of them. And don’t forget something for someone to vomit in. If you have a barf bag- no one will need one. If you don’t have a barf bag- someone will definitely yak. Don’t chance it.
- Lots of snacks.
Now is not the time to skimp on the snacks. Make the snacks interesting for smaller kids by putting a variety into one container or even put them in ice cube trays. Try to make snacks healthy so you don’t feel bloated or sick (especially when you do not usually eat like that). And if your kids are young, steer clear of juices, yogurt, or saucy type items.
- Roll with the punches and mellow out.
As the parent- know that nothing is going to go to plan and that is okay. Try to be flexible with the schedule (or build in flex time). Then when you get to your destination, take some time to unwind and relax. You may not be able to get to a hot tub, but you can take a few minutes to meditate or simply be mindful of your environment and body.
My Challenge to you: Tell us how you prep for your road trips. Did you use any of these tips? Did we miss any?
P.S. Have a great trip!
Happy trails friends!
– Jessie the Therapist
Photo by: Patrick Tomasso and BlueFox Press
