1. No car trouble.
Your road trip won’t be great if you break down or have car problem. So, take a car that is running well, get the oil changed before you leave, and have it serviced. Also, know who your motor club is, and have the information easy to access if you need to call AAA or some other club.
2. A cooler.
Drinks, snacks, and treats, make a trip on the road much more enjoyable. It also means less stops. So, pack a cooler with some of your favorites, and have it in the car where it can be accessed easily.
3. A plan with flexibility.
Knowing what to expect can make a road trip better because it means you know where you will stop for gas, and for entertainment along the way. However, make sure that you have some flexibility to it. If you had planned to eat in one destination, but everyone is hungry and you are still two hours away, change your plan!
4. Directions, and road updates.
Construction can be extremely frustrating when on a road trip, as is getting lost. So, take the time before you leave to check for road construction on the routes, and prepare alternate routes if possible. Also print your directions and familiarize yourself with them so you do not get off track and end up 150 miles further East then you planned.
5. Stuff to do.
Any road trip is more fun if you have a movie player, a hand held gaming device, coloring stuff for the kids, audio books to listen to, music to rock out to, or games to play in the car. Have something to satisfy the time while driving.
6. Fun stops.
Plan stops along the way that are not just for using the bathroom, getting gas, or food. Plan sightseeing, and fun stops, and you will enjoy the trip so much more.
7. Get rid of garbage.
You will enjoy the trip more if every time you stop you clean the car out quickly. Getting rid of trash means having more space for yourself and your belongings, and eliminates spills and messes, which can cause frustration.
8. Comfortable clothing
When you are going to be sitting in a car for hours, you do not want buttons on your back pocket, or a tight fitting shirt. Dress comfortably, and dress your children comfortably to minimize the amount of complaining due to discomfort.
9. Temperature control.
Find a comfortable temperature to have your car at. Have blankets for those who get cold easily, or close vents that may blow on them. Being too hot or too cold can cause irritability, which makes road trips no fun at all.
10. Input from all.
One of the best ways to have a great road trip, even with kids is to simply get input from everyone. What do they want to do? What do they want to see? Where do they want to sit in the car? What fun things would they like to entertain them as you drive?
Parenting viewpoints from parents in the trenches, because parenting doesn’t come with a manual. In addition to