Are you getting ready to take the family on a road trip? Are you looking for some tips for the road, such as what to pack, stay entertained, and maintain a healthy and exciting road trip? I have ten tips to share with you.
I have so many years of experience with road trips. My father was also in the Army, so he was always prepared. I knew what to do before we left, what to have in the car for emergencies, and the route.
You can use a checklist to help with packing and a road trip itinerary for the extra stops you may want to take along the way.
I’m sharing ten essential tips for your next road trip. Whether you’re planning to hit the beach, stay at a cabin, or drive to the nearest cruise port, these family road trip tips will help you stay less stressed and enjoy the road trip experience.
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Road Trip to Florida.
Do you and your family live in Georgia and looking for a road trip to plan. View this blog on planning a road trip to Destin Florida for a journey through the deep south.
Road Trip Tips for a Smooth Journey
Family road trips can be exciting. Viewing the scenery, capturing history, beautiful landmarks, and more.
Before you hit the road, you must plan the trip, like the activities along the way, the breaks to stretch your legs and ensure the kids don’t get bored. Honestly, I get bored riding without a break.
A plan can help you stay on track, be flexible with your time, and not feel rushed on this journey. Here are four tips for planning a smooth ride around the countryside.
1. Plan Out The Route.
The first thing to do when planning the route is to use Google Maps. When on the computer, zoom out on the map to see if anything interesting stops along the way.
Then use Google to research the place, things to do there, and their hours so you can capture the moments with the family.
Then print out the destination and route from Google Maps or buy a map and keep it in the glove department while on the road.
What if you lose service on your GPS or phone? You can’t just rely on technology; going to old school is okay.
2. Be flexible with the itinerary.
Be prepared, and plan ahead for any changes to your route.
For instance, if there are any emergencies or spontaneous adventures that you and the family may want to visit.
Of course, if you’re on a schedule, you should plan your time accordingly.
Planning early so you don’t miss the cruise ship leaving because of a flat tire or a pit stop.
3. Take frequent breaks.
Plan to schedule regular stops for bathroom breaks, stretch your legs, and add some fun activities to keep everyone excited.
You should stay overnight at a hotel, depending on the hours of the road trip.
4. Get the kids involved with the planning.
Getting advice from the children about choosing the destinations or activities takes less stress off of you.
And it excites them for the road trip versus thinking about being in a car for hours.
Road Trip Tips for Smart Packing.
5. Organizing and Pack Smart
As you start packing, you will realize you need a checklist to help you stay organized so you don’t forget to pack the most important items.
When packing, try using cubes or bags to organize clothing and essentials for each family member.
My dad always had a cooler in the car going on road trips to the beaches in New Jersey. I have two coolers, small and larger size with wheels.
Pack that cooler for the ice, a cooler and heating bag for storing food items, and a thermic bottle for hot beverages like coffee for the early morning drive or hot cocoa for the kids.
6. Pack Some Healthy Snack Bags.
One of the best ways to save money and avoid gas station stops.
Fill a bag with dry fruits and chips and a cooler with healthy snacks, bottled water, and juice packs.
If you want, make some sandwiches or veggie wraps to avoid stopping at a fast food spot.
Yes, it smells amazing but the feeling after is not worth it. Plus the driver needs energy foods to stay awake.
7. Pack the Entertainment for the road.
To keep the kids and everyone in the car entertained.
Bring some books, games, and devices loaded with movies or podcasts to keep kids engaged.
Don’t forget to pack the portable chargers to keep the devices up and going in the vehicle.
You should tune into the local radio stations while your in that area. You may catch the local activities happening and plan for a future trip.
8. Comfort is Key on the Road.
Riding in a vehicle for hours can get cozy, and will put the kids to sleep.
Bring pillows and blankets for a cozy nap during the drive. Airplane pillows are just as great in the car as on planes.
If your child has a favorite stuffed bear to keep them calm, bring the bear for a ride, too.
9. Pack the Emergency Kit.
Pack the safety kit with first-aid supplies, flashlights, battery charger for the vehicle, spare tire, flares, and water.
Having the essentials for a roadside assistant is smart to keep in the vehicle for emergencies and unexpected situations.
10. Pack the Camera to Capture the Memories
The last item that is a must is a camera. Smartphones are great tools to capture the moments of the trip.
Packing a backup camera will ensure that if the phone stops working, another one will replace your phone.
If you can afford a GoPro, it will give you everything you need. Video footage and picture-taking are easy to hold and carry around.
Road Trip Tips for Everyone.
Those ten road trip tips will now help you with the packing list and the road trip planner.
So get ready cause it’s time to hit the road, have fun, and enjoy the journey.
Road trips are excellent, as they allow you to view the scenery, take breaks to enjoy the view, and visit attractions throughout the travel.
These helpful tips should be valuable to you and your spouse to make this road trip vacation a breeze and less stressful.
If you haven’t already added travel insurance to secure you and your family from any unexpected travel issues.
Also, remember to call ahead and check your reservations to confirm your bookings before you arrive.
Do you need to make your hotel reservations for your next road trip? Or looking to book a cabin in the woods and away from the city for a weekend getaway? Check out this website to book your family’s next trip.
Let’s connect and share your road trip tips.
Did you find this article helpful? If so, comment or leave your road trip travel tips below. Please share this with others who are planning a road trip.
Safe travels.
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