Road tripping is a great idea for a family holiday for a number of reasons. It is helpful on your bank balance, you can visit places you would not normally go, and you needn’t stick to a strict time schedule, but the most rewarding factor is that parents and kids get to spend time together.
One down side is that younger children and long hours in cars do not particularly mix well. Car rides to far away destinations seem to last forever for young children. Here are a few simple hints to make the ride easier and hear less moans and groans:
Games. Make sure they bring a pen and paper because they are going to help you navigate. First, have them look for upcoming road signs. This keeps them attentive, alert and they feel like part of the team. As they do this, have them write down license plates with the aim of finding more cities and counties than each other.
Sing. Singing with your family is not just something that takes place in the movies. It can also be a fun way to practise your vocal range. Use a Kids sing-along CD or practise some oldies from your childhood.
Switch drivers. This reduces repetitiveness and gives the illusion that the trip is shorter.
Be cosy. A long journey is different from a trip down to the shops. Make sure everyone wears comfortable shoes and clothes. Bring pillows and blankets for the children so they have opportunity to rest, therefore making them less cranky and resulting in a pleasanter journey for the grownups.
Use rest stops. Rest stops serve a great purpose for you to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and use the facilities. Try to bring a ball to throw around with the kids. This distracts them from being on the road and burns off a bit of energy.