Reedman Toll Auto World

Family Car Travel Made Easy

While traveling on the road with a family, it is important to be prepared and armed with the right stuff.  No one wants to be in a vehicle with miserable kids or lost to the point you don’t know where you are going. There are ways to prevent this, though.  First, you need the things that will keep the kids happy, occupied, and comfortable.  And then, you need the essentials you would use in any trip; maps, phones, etc.  Here are some suggestions for the kids:

Sun Shades 

Some vehicles have heavily tinted windows in the rear.  But, if you don’t, you might need a sunshade to keep the sun out of the kid’s eyes. Built-in sunshades are featured on many luxury sedans, and now you can also get them on some minivans. There are also add-on sunshade accessories available online or in baby stores.

A comfortable car seat

Car seats come in a wide variety.  Some are cushy and plush, while others are bare bones.  Although they are more expensive, the seats with plenty of padding may be important on a long trip.  It would not be fair to ask your child to sit on hard plastic for hours.  If you keep children comfortable (a seat that fits them, with plenty of padding), they will be happy longer.

Entertaining the kids
 
Today, there are so many products that are made specifically for car travel and kids.  There is a wide range of activity books, like dot to dot or mazes. Coloring books, books on tape, and magnetic board games all work well too.   Also, pack a goody bag that contains small gifts that will be exciting for the children.  On long trips, there's nothing better than a DVD player or handheld electronic games.  Some vehicles have a built in DVD player, with a flip down screen; if not, portable players are easily found in stores.  There are even educational video games available.

Change of clothing

Diapers, underwear and extra clothes are a must.  Eating on the go often means spills on clothing.  Dry clothing means a comfortable kid.  Also bring a jacket just in case it is colder than expected.

Blankie or stuffed animal

Nothing becomes more valuable on a road trip than something your child can snuggle with.  It may help them fall asleep, be comforted if they get upset, or even remind them of home.

Snacks
 
You need plenty of snacks, and lots of variety.  This may include water bottles, juice boxes, individual bags of chips or crackers, yogurt sticks, cheese sticks, etc.  Kids get cranky when they are hungry, but you may not be in a position to stop.  Furthermore, food has an amazing quiet effect on children. Don't forget a couple of bags to hold all the trash, and accept that there will be crumbs, and possibly spills.

Now that the kids are covered, here are some other essentials for the road:

Maps to cover your route 

The last thing you want to do is get lost and extend the length of your trip. If your vehicle has a navigation system, you are in luck, and should be covered.  If not, bring detailed maps that will show you where you are in case you don't know.  Some maps or guides will also highlight features along the route and the all-important rest stops.
Prescriptions 

Trying to get a hold of your doctor and get a new prescription faxed to a pharmacy from hundreds of miles away is not an ideal situation.  Make sure these are packed in a particular and accessible place. Pediatricians can also recommend over-the-counter motion sickness medication if you will be traveling on winding roads or your children tend to feel sick in the vehicle.

Travel-sized packs

Why bring more when you don’t need it?  From little shampoos to travel first aid kits, you can find just about everything in a mini pack these days.  Even toys, bug spray, and sunscreen; all together you will be saving a lot of weight in the suitcase and space in the car.  Pack all these things in one bag that is easy to get to, and you'll save not only time but energy as well.

Cell phone

This is not to chat with your best friend while driving.  But, for emergencies, it is priceless.  There are many situations to use this, such as if you get lost, a blown tire, an overheated engine or you are in need of medical assistance.  A good tip is, if other adults in the car use a different carrier have them bring theirs along too.  You never know which carrier will have a working signal at any given moment. Don't forget the car charger and the A/C charger as well.

Important documents/legal tender

Of course, make sure you have driver licenses for all drivers.  You also should bring other IDs, vehicle registration, a current insurance card, vehicle title document, AAA card (if applicable), ATM card, credit card and cash.  You just never know when you may need these, like if you get pulled over by police, need a tow, break down, and so on. Keep everything safe and in one place. The best spot is on you, in a front pocket.  For things that do not fit, lock them in a glove box.

Going on a car trip with the family can be tiring and stressful.  But, if you prepare ahead of time, are well stocked with important items, and have made an effort to take necessary steps that will keep the kids happy, the trip can be fun and relaxing.