Road trips are definitely a great way to have some family fun, but travelling long distance with kids can be a little different to travelling alone or with other adults. When you travel long distance with kids, there are a lot of things that you’ll need to take into consideration. Since kids can often get bored on long road trips, one of the most important things that you’ll need to do is ensure to keep them entertained. If you’re planning a long driving journey but are a bit worried about taking little ones along, we’ve got some top tips to help you make sure that it’s a safe and enjoyable experience.
Brush Up Your Driving Skills
Driving with kids in the car can sometimes be stressful, even if there’s going to be another adult present to look after them whilst you concentrate on the road. Making sure that your knowledge of the highway code, road signs and markings, and things such as speed limits is important as you’ll be driving more safely and will be less likely to get stressed. Click here for free learning materials for the UK driving theory test.
Entertainment
Providing your kids with something to keep them occupied and entertained during a long car journey is a good way to make sure that the atmosphere in the car is happy and calm. If you have a tablet or a smartphone, downloading some great kids’ movies onto it and giving them headphones to watch it in the car can not only keep them busy, but you’ll be able to drive in peace and quiet, too. If you have more than one child, headphone splitters can be a good investment.
Comfort
Sitting in a car for a long period of time can become uncomfortable, so it’s important to make sure that you and your family are comfortable during your road trip. This could mean bringing along pillows and blankets to make sure that the back seat of the car is cosier, making sure that there’s fresh air coming into the car, and having some relaxing music to play. For children, bringing along home comforts such as favourite teddies, toys and blankets can help them to be more relaxed and comfortable during the trip. Taking along food, drinks and snacks for everyone to enjoy on the journey is a must.
Plan Stops
Children can get very bored very quickly when they’re sitting in the confined space of a car. Planning regular stops at service stations might mean that you get to your final destination a little later, but it’s a good idea if you want to ensure that the journey is a pleasant one. When you’ve got kids in the car, you’ll need to plan more stops than you’d usually take on your own so that they can stretch their legs and get some fresh air.
Travelling long distance with kids in the car can seem pretty stressful, but when you’re fully prepared, it can be a fun, relaxing family experience that you’ll all enjoy.