Why fly for your next family trip if you've got the time, money, space, and a drivable destination? A road trip can be one of the best bonding experiences your family can have.
But once you decide to hit the open road, what to bring (and maybe even what not to bring) is your next big decision. Comfort is key. No one wants to be stuffed into the backseat with bicycle tires, water toys, and heavy suitcases (rent the bikes and toys and only bring the clothes you need). Inversely, no one wants to be unprepared for a minor injury or sickness, dead batteries, or boredom.
Thankfully, there is a happy medium. Here is a short list of some of the things that can make your road trip one your family's best memories together.
Taking Care
Health and safety is crucial. You'll want to make sure you have this covered in the event of an emergency.
1. The Right Insurance
You can be the best driver out there, but that doesn't mean that everyone else is. Make sure you have the best car insurance and add-ons as possible. You don't want to be stranded without roadside assistance or have to fork over hundreds (or even thousands) to rent another car if yours becomes unusable.
2. First Aid Kit
Band-Aids, Neosporin, Cortizone, Advil, Tylenol, Benadryl, disinfectant etc. Have a little of everything just in case someone in the family needs it. Taking a short break from the car for a walk in the park seemed like a good idea, but now everyone covered in bug bites. Pass back the Cortisone.
3. Keep It Clean
Kids (and even adults sometimes) can't help the occasional upset stomach. And frequently, it's the car that is causing it. Make sure that you've brought along a small pail and some plastic bags to catch anything that may come up. And oh and plenty of napkins and Wet Ones.
Keeping it Together
Being organized and running a tight ship will help you save time (and maybe even some headaches!) all along the way.
1. Wardrobe Changes
Keep an extra set of clothes for each kid (and even the big kids) handy and separate from the suitcases for the inevitable spilled drink or a change in weather.
2. Blankets
Passengers fighting over the temperature in the car? Bring small blankets for the cold ones to cuddle up in for warmth or to sleep.
3. Chargers and Batteries
Don't let your phone, tablet, or gaming system die. These things keep everyone occupied, provide entertainment, and sometimes even keep you going in the right direction. Have every charger for every device at the tip of your fingers.
Leisure Activities
Packing the right snacks and things to do on the road can be one of the most important things to put together before you head out.
1. Music
Put together a family playlist of songs. And for those passengers that don't love the sing-alongs, pack some headphones and separate music players.
http://playlists.net/family-friendly-playlist-favs-of-the-fa
2. Snacks
Make sure you have accessible snacks for everyone. You can make them all healthy or you can make just some of them healthy, just make sure you have enough to go around a few times and that they are not going to make a huge mess in the car.
3. Games
Whether on a tablet, cards, or on a board, have plenty of games to keep everyone entertained and involved. Even the simplest of games like searching for different license plates or "I'm going on a picnic" can keep everyone engaged for hours.
No matter the destination or the companions, make the most of the time that you have together. Moments like this won't always be possible. And with the help of some of the items on this list, you can focus on what is most important: family time.
No comments:
Post a Comment