Family Road Trip - What to pack and what to expect?

Summer is here and for us that means a lot of time on the road. The kids get so bored in the car, even after their fill of movies and electronics. Having a few extra activities on hand can help maintain sanity and squash boredom levels.

When it is a long trip, sometimes it can get little cramped and fussy. In order to stretch things out a little bit some extras are needed. I discovered filling up a basket of new-to-you activities for the kids makes a really great co-pilot. I can pull out a new distraction with a free hand and pass it back to the kiddos before they begin their first argument. The trick is to not use all the stuff up before you get to the end of your road trip. Then you drive back home empty handed and that is no bueno.

Here is what I keep in my basket of tricks:

Books – especially ones with stickers my kids can peel off and stick again. Those keep them entertained and won’t stick to the inside of my car. Trust me, a lesson you learn only once. If you have older kids, get the books that they are interested.

Snacks – and lots of them! I’m talking about treats that is fun and they don't get bored, pick healthy options like banana nut muffin cups, oats almond cookies, granola bars with chocolate chips, multigrain crackers, healthy gummies, fruits, veggie strip with hummus, cheese sticks but make sure they are non-perishable. Browse for some cool kids snacks on my blog. Kids can’t argue if their mouths are full. Rare treats also work well for bribery, “Simmer down back there or the gummies get it!”.

Wet wipes – to take care of the sticky mouth and yeah the wet nappies.

Bubbles/play card – this is great for younger kids. I use them at the rest stop when we get out to stretch our legs, or to give the other kid something to do while we are in the bathroom. Slime works well too, if you're not a fan,then skip it. Do not bring any basket ball or any sort of play ball, you can't keep running behind on rest area

Art supplies – my kid love coloring books. I keep a few on hand with a mega set of colored pencils. Not only does this give them color options, but it means I won’t have to go digging for the only blue pencil they just dropped under the seat for the 10th time in the last five minutes.

White board – to use the dry erase markers to play games like Pictionary or hang man. This of course only works if they are in a amicable mood. Otherwise you’ll have to endure listening to high pitched whaling. Also get the washable, dry erase markers. (Another lesson you only need to learn once).

Potty break - If you have toddlers who are into potty training or trained, try having a small potty lined with diaper inside and covered with a lid. This is help you in case your toddler wants to pee when you are nowhere and the diaper lining helps in absorbing, so you don't have to deal with spills.

Patience – it is typically somewhere near the bottom of the basket. I have to rummage around under all the other stuff to search for it and eventually I find it. Traveling with kids is stressful at some point. You have to manage emotions, attitudes and temperaments along with hunger cues and bathroom breaks. Not to mention defend everyone’s personal space. Being prepared with favorite comforts can really help. But what works best is dropping any expectations for a tranquil journey. And if you pull out the electronics to find a little peace – go for it! Driving with screaming kids can contribute to road rage, so really handing your kids an iPad is a simple safety measure but to a certain limit.

With that being said, the most important of all is don't forget to enjoy your trip and create memories with your loved ones.

Happy travels!