With spring break knockin’ on your door, you may be considering a family road trip.  If so, here are five basic tips you can follow to make your trip easier.

Leave at the most optimal time

If you’re a parent then you probably already know the best time to leave based on when your children will be tired or relaxed.  If you’re ambitious, you can leave in the evening and drive part of the time through the night.  If that’s not an option, you could leave around the time they’d normally take a nap.  One of the worst times to leave is right after children wake up because they have a lot of energy to burn and will need extra entertainment in the car.

Bring entertainment

Your spring break road trip won’t be complete without fun car games.  Remember the games you played in the car as a child such as the alphabet game and tracking state license plates?  Teach your children these games and make up new ones as you go.  With advanced technology today, you can pack movies, electronic games, etc.

Bring “quiet” entertainment

After entertaining your kids for a while, you may want some quiet drive time, so be sure to bring activities your kids can do by themselves.  Books, coloring supplies, an mp3 player or dvd player can quietly entertain your children so you’re able to focus on the road or enjoy your time with a significant other or road trip partner.

Pack snacks

Fast food and gas station food can really add up in cost, not to mention it’s not always very healthy.  Plan ahead and pack some snacks or treats that can be eaten in the car.  Some good ideas include an assortment of water and beverages, fresh fruits, snack bars and crackers.  Remember to try to pack items that are easy to eat or you may find all your snacks on your car’s floor when you arrive at your destination.

Take medicine with you

Anyone can get sick during a road trip which means you should always pack some basic supplies in case of an illness or accident.  Some items to consider packing are children’s aspirin, allergy medicine, medicine for upset stomach and diarrhea and band aids. If your child is currently taking a prescription, make sure to bring enough for the entire length of your vacation.  A roll of paper towels and a zip lock bag can also come in handy for any accidents.

Tags: Advice, Automobile Safety, Road Trips, Travel // 1 Comment »