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Road Trip Ready

Going on a road trip with the whole family doesn't have to be a dreaded vacation. The key to a family road trip is planning. Consider three things when planning the trip: what to bring, how to get there and what to see along the way.

What to Bring

Snacks

Snacks can include pretzels, fruit, crackers, juice, and granola bars. Include foods that are easy to hold and you don't have to worry about spilling.

Water

Water is important to keep everyone hydrated, especially when it is very hot out. In addition, having water bottles in the trunk will help you save money on beverages and reduce your number of drink stops.

Moist towelettes

These are perfect for sticky hands, emergency bathroom breaks, and spills.

Plastic Bags

Plastic bags are great for keeping trash confined. When you stop at for a break, toss the trash bag and start a new one. This is a good way of keeping the car from accumulating piles of trash.

Travel Games

Research and plan some travel games for the ride. Eye Spy, The License Plate game, and I am Going On a Trip are three perfect standbys.

Activities

Put together a bag of activities for each child. They should be activities the kids have never seen before. Limit the new activities to one an hour. Include a disposable camera for each child. They can take pictures of the places they visit and write about them in a journal.

Music

Provide a variety of music for all tastes. It is also fun to include some great sing-a-long songs in the mix. For younger children, include can be nursery rhymes and, for older kids, play theme songs from their favorite television show or sing 99 bottles of Beer on the Wall. Include calm, peaceful music for when you want the kids to settle or rest.

Map Copies

Make copies of maps with the route highlighted for each child to have. It is a good opportunity for children to practice valuable map reading skills. Also, maps help with the age old question of “Are we there yet?”

Stash the Cash

Do not rely solely on credit cards and debit cards. It is a good idea to stash some emergency cash in the car and suitcase in case your card is lost or stolen or if you go somewhere where plastic is not accepted.

Medication

Along with a first aid kit, remember to bring medication for you and your family.

How You're Getting There

Car Maintenance

Keep t

ire pressure at 30-32 psi so that you can get up to five percent increase in miles per gallon. Check all water and fluid reservoirs to make sure they are full. Also, get an oil change before heading out on the road.

Map It Out

Map out your trip before leaving. Plan rest stops along the way to let everyone stretch and use the restroom. With children, it is a good idea to plan on stopping every two to three hours. Also, if you have brought an ice chest eat your meals at rest stops to avoid costly restaurants, unhealthy fast food and messes in the car.

What to See Along the Way

Spend some time researching the cities you will be traveling to or going through. When children have some background knowledge of the places they will be seeing, their experience can be much more rewarding and rich.

With a little planning, a road trip can be a memorable experience that families will look back upon as a cherished memory.

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13y ago

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