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Are We There Yet?
Tips for Stress-Free Summer Travel
Packing
- Pack light. Limit each family member to one large duffle bag. Depending on how long the family will be traveling, pack one outfit for each day. Plan outfits that match the same pair of sneakers to eliminate the bulk of additional footwear.
Get comfortable. Pack plenty of comfy favorites like pillows, blankets and stuffed animals. This will help deter grumpy little road trippers. - Get ready for the water. Pack a separate "beach bag" complete with everyone's swimsuit and towel – it'll be ready to go without everyone having to unpack their bags to find their own.
- Pack a snack. Ask children what snacks are preferred and bring treats from home to reduce spending at convenience stores. Next, fill a cooler with the preferred foods. Pack extra snacks for the "between stops."
- Make safety a priority. Pack necessities such as a flashlight, batteries and a first aid kit in case of emergency.
Staying Entertained
- Keep children entertained. Pack for each child an "art box" complete with stickers, a small drawing pad, colored pencils and crayons. Bring a couple of cookie sheets as well. The cookie sheet can be used as a tabletop for snacking and coloring, or for magnetic play. The raised edges are terrific for keeping crayons and pencils in one place as well!
- Explore the great outdoors. Kids love the outdoors. Pack a magnifying glass and camera, and take advantage of the scenery along the route. Stop the car and allow the kids to dmire the beauty and take pictures of their favorite spots.
- Pack a surprise bag. When the kids get restless, play silly word games and reward them with little trinkets from the surprise bag (e.g., miniature card games, dolls, cars, stickers, etc.).
- Take the time to bond. Turn off the music and get the kids to take off their earphones. Talk and tell funny stories. Allow the kids to make up their own stories.
- Work out. When stopping along the way at rest stops and picnic areas, pull out the soccer ball and allow the kids to play. This will allow the kids to burn energy. They will be more relaxed for the next leg of the trip.
