Traveling with your family is a great way to make memories that will last a lifetime. It can be tricky to keep everyone happy while on the road, but with these items, there will be a much better chance of making that happen.
Activity Books
Having activity books in the car that kids (and adults) can work on will help pass the time between rest stops and destinations. Puzzle books are great and you can purchase all different kinds for both kids and adults. Sudoku, crossword, word searches, sticker pads, doodle pages. Whatever you’re looking for, there’s something out there to keep you entertained. Road trips are a great chance to connect with your family. Take turns asking questions from the Table Topics cube of your travel companions to learn more about each other. Melissa and Doug also make a version called Trip Talk.
Device Charger
These days a road trip involves some devices. This charger will charge up to five different devices at a time so no one will have to miss a moment that needs to be part of their Instastory. There are also personal chargers. And don’t forget charging cords. Tech is part of traveling but you don’t want to misplace any of your cords or chargers or accessories during the visit. A tech case can help you keep everything organized and together.
Gift Cards
I’m all about giving gifts that are needed as well as thoughtful. Purchase a gift card for the travelers to use on their journey for gas, meals, or an attraction along the way. A gift card for the travelers to make a book when they return is a great gift idea. Buying gifts cards is also a great way to help you budget for your trip. Spreading out the cost over several months can help make things a little more affordable.
Water Bottles
Staying hydrated during your trip is important. Just as important is having a good water bottle that won’t spill all over your car. This bottle will keep your drinks cold all day which is great if you’re out exploring. If you’d prefer a bottle with a spout, this one is a better choice for you.
Travel Journal
Keep track of all of your adventures in one space with a travel journal. Make sure to have plenty of pens on hand. Want to add pictures to your journal? An HP Sprocket prints them right from your phone. You can even get sticky paper to print them on so you can stick them right in your journal.
Travel Toiletries
Bringing your favorite products along on your trip is a great idea. If you’ve got allergies, bringing the same products you use at home is a requirement. I also like to make sure that I bring along kid friendly products. It’s easier because many of the products are multi-use and tear free.
Organization
Keeping your car and hotel rooms along the way organized is very important. Using zipper pockets, totes, and bins can help keep things together and make packing and unpacking easier. Individual bags or containers for the kids can be helpful for them to keep track of all of their snacks and activities. If there’s room you can put a bag like this near them. A cooler can also be handy for keeping snacks and drinks cool during your adventure. If you’re making multiple stops along the way, having a separate bag to take out just for that stop can help from unpacking a large bag at each stop and possibly loosing something.
Packing is important too. Having a list like this for everyone traveling with you will make sure nothing’s forgotten. We’ve also got a printable packing list too.
For the Car
After a couple of days together in a hot car, things can get smelly. A simple air freshener for your vents can help keep things smelling nice and fresh. Even with proper care and planning before the trip, it never fails that something unexpected happens during a trip. Not only will a AAA membership help you with things while you travel, they’ll also help you find discounts and help you plan your trip! Also consider putting a few bags for trash in your car so you can get rid of them along the way when you stop for gas.
What’s your favorite thing to take on a road trip with you?
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