It’s almost officially summer and the school year is quickly coming to a close. With the world slowly opening back up, I am getting ready to hit the road with my family for a couple of road trips. Here are just some of the things I do to prepare.
- Make sure your car is up to date on emissions, oil changes, etc. before you hit the road. If you have time, take it to the car wash as well and clean out the inside.
- When traveling with babies, create a family friendly music playlist for the babies. I use songs from Disney shows and movies.
- Pack at least two outfits per day but try to only pack 2-3 pairs of shoes. When it comes to underwear and socks, ALWAYS overpack. If you are going away for a weekend, pack at least six pairs of both.
- Stores like The Dollar Tree, Dollar General, etc. are your friend. Invest in the following items to keep in your car: hand sanitizer, baby wipes, facial tissues, and hand lotion.
- Whenever you go into a fast food restaurant, always take extra napkins and straws to keep in your glove compartment. They will ALWAYS come in handy.
- Do you know those shoe organizers that hang on the back of a door? Get a small one and tie it to the back of the driver’s side seat (and passenger’s seat if more than one child will be in the backseat). Use the pockets to store items for the little ones like: crayons, coloring books, travel sized puzzles, snacks, etc.
- For those with little ones that sometimes get motion sickness, invest in some paper bags that you can keep in all of the doors.
- In the case of inclement weather, map out some indoor festivities for the little ones. And don’t forget to pack an umbrella.
- Wash dishes and clothes before you leave the house. No one will feel like doing chores when they come home from a long road trip.
- Some babies may need the comforts of home in order to be comfortable while they’re away. Don’t forget bedtime toys and allow them to bring their own pillow from home.
- Pack a couple plastic bags, from the grocery store, so you can keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean clothes.
- Whenever possible, pay for activities in advance.
- Some people may frown on an itinerary, but I say to each his own. Even if you don’t map out each day you’re away, there’s nothing wrong with scouting the area for some activities for the family.
- Always keep some cash on you, and in the car. You never know when a toll will pop up out of nowhere.
Hope these tips and tricks help. Happy traveling!
Mom of 2 Wife of One 