Are you planning a summer road trip for your family? Read this first!
Road trips are a fantastic way for families to spend time together during the summer months. They offer a sense of adventure, freedom, and excitement that can be hard to find with other forms of travel. To prepare you for your summer travels, we have put together 25 tips for making your next family road trip a great success!
- Plan your route and itinerary in advance. Doing your research first will help you avoid unwanted detours and ensure you see all the sights and stop at all the landmarks. Plus, knowing ahead of time where you can find playgrounds, dog parks, and good food will ease your mind when it comes time to stretch your legs
- Make sure everyone has a comfortable seat and enough legroom. Seriously, no one wants to be crammed next to the cooler for 8 hours! Everyone should have enough room to stretch out for a comfortable journey.
- Embrace spontaneity and be open to changing plans if something interesting comes up. Don't miss out on that giant ball of yarn just because it wasn't on the agenda!
- Bring entertainment like books, fidget toys, travel size games, or movies.
- Take breaks frequently to stretch your legs and get some fresh air.
- Have a first-aid kit on hand for emergencies.
- Keep the car clean and organized. It is your home on the road and will feel much less chaotic if kept tidy.
- Bring a map or GPS device in case you lose cell service.
- Pack light and only bring what you need. Traveling tends to make people nervous that they will be without what they need so they overpack just in case. Plan ahead and pack based on what your family regularly uses or needs in a week, with a few "in case of emergency" items.
- Set ground rules for behavior, such as no fighting or yelling.
- Make sure everyone gets enough sleep before and during the trip.
- Bring a charger or extra battery pack for electronic devices.
- Dress comfortably for the long drive.
- Keep a positive attitude and enjoy the journey, not just the destination.
- Have a backup plan in case of bad weather or unforeseen circumstances.
- Try to avoid rush hour traffic when driving through big cities.
- Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks to save money on food. This is ideal to be prepared for when hunger strikes! Keep all of your healthy snacks and treats cold and ready for your family.
- Use apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest gas stations along your route.
- Bring a comfortable pillow or blanket for naps in the car.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Take advantage of rest stops for bathroom breaks and stretching.
- Encourage everyone to try new things and be open to new experiences.
Make this an adventure to remember!
- Take photos and document your journey to remember the trip. Your kids will remember your time together in the car as much as your destination!
- Set realistic expectations and don't over-schedule your trip.
- Have fun and make memories that will last a lifetime!
Road trips are an excellent option for families during the summer. They offer a sense of adventure, affordability, flexibility, quality time, and a break from the routine of everyday life. With a little planning and preparation, families can create unforgettable memories on a summer road trip. We hope these tips help your next road trip to be a blast!
