My children are 3 and 5. We have a lot on our hands when we are on a family road trip. Here are proven methods to keep the madness to a minimum. And fun, to the max!
Our 7 week road trip spans 6,836 miles, 52 days, and 100 hours of driving. We stop at 25 destinations including 8 national parks. Click here for the full itinerary.
1. Driving legs no longer than 6 hours
7 weeks is a long road trip! We will be in the car over 100 hours. For children it feels like a 1,000. This is why you need to break up the trip into legs that are no longer than 6 hours. For us, that’s about the longest drive we can manage in a day. With gas stops, lunch, and bathroom breaks it turns out to be a 8 hour trip.
2. At least 2 days at each stop – also – pools!
With so much driving, you need to feel like you are taking a break. Even one segment of 6 hours can feel like a lot! We plan to stop for at least 2 days each stop. Even in the middle of nowhere Oklahoma. Sometimes you need to break this rule (by overnighting and then driving the next day too), but only on rare occasions.
My kids love pools, so when we stop, I always make sure the campgrounds have one. This will ensure Dad and Mom can relax, while the kids get that energy out. Here are a few types of campgrounds that are generally kid friendly (and have pools):
Jellystone
KOA
3. Devices, devices, devices!
Yes, it’s every parents crutch. I know. We have this rule for the kids where you can only watch your device when we are in the car. Any other time, kids need to be in the moment, camping, hiking, whatever. So the kids actually look forward to the long car rides.
We have subscriptions to:
That last one, is critical. Because with subscriptions, you can download the content. Downloads over wifi can reduce the data consumption. And, in the middle of nowhere Wyoming, you have entertainment!
Essential Gear: Need I say, wireless earphones are also critical? Head rest mounts so their necks don’t crinkle on the long stretches. Check out these on Amazon (inexpensive, highly rated).
4. Treat yourself to a hotel every now and again
Having a camper means you have everything you need attached to your car. Camping is part of the adventure. With so many stops, hooking up, setting up camp, taking down can be exhausting. If you are on a budget and used to paying camp rates, hotels can seem like an unnecessary splurge.
After peeling yourself out of your hot car on a long drive. There is nothing better piling into a cheap hotel room with unlimited AC, long showers, clean sheets, and fresh towels. Not to mention, no setup, no takedown. The kids will welcome the change.
So, go for it!
5. Have fun!
So there you have it. The most important part is to have fun. When that is not happening, pull over, take a deep breath, take a nap and let the kids run it out at a playground. And always remember: you’re on vacation!
Want to read more? Check out our road trip here.
