We have made a couple of long distance car journeys over the past few months, including a visit to Northumberland and we have recently travelled up to Scotland for a two week break. So today I thought I would share a few tips for making long journeys with children a little bit easier!
1. PACK A RUCKSACK WITH ESSENTIALS
I take a children’s rucksack with us most places anyway, but if I know we are going on a long trip I always make sure Sophie’s bag is topped up. I always include a handful of pull ups (as we have recently potty trained), a spare change of clothes (in case of any accidents), baby wipes, a soft toy, a drink of water or juice and snacks. I also make sure I pack a coat, in case we end up breaking down – as it may get a bit cold waiting around.
2. COMFORTABLE CLOTHES
When travelling, you may want to put your child in loose and comfortable clothing, especially if they are going to be sat in a car seat for a long period of time.
3. MAKE UP A LUNCHBOX
I tend to pack a lunchbox the night before, including items such as sandwiches, crisps, fruit and cheese.
4. SOMETHING TO KEEP THEM OCCUPIED
Whether you take a DVD player for the car, a tablet such as an iPad or Kindle, books for them to read or even play games in the car such as eye spy, it will pass the time and hopefully make the journey go a little bit quicker!
5. STOP FOR A BREAK
After an hour or two into your journey, it may be an idea to stop at a service station if possible for toilet breaks etc. It also means your child can stretch their legs and get a bit of fresh air, so you’re not all stuck in a car for too long.
So there you have my tips for travelling with children! Would you add anything to this list?
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Great tips, if we didn't stop for a break the kids would go crazy!!
Thanks! Haha yep! x
We're quite well practised in taking long trips now and I agree that a well prepared rucksack and snacks are key!
🙂 definitely! x
Great tips!! Planning ahead to keep them happy and occupied is so important!
Thank you! I completely agree! x
Fabulous tips here lovely! I wouldn't add anything to the list but i do keep an "emergency" box in the boot of my car (always, not just on trips) that has things like blankets, a torch, first aid kit, water etc. in xxx
Thank you lovely! 🙂 that's a good idea too xx
Love these tips. I always pack a spare change of clothes and some kitchen roll in case one of my little darlings is sick!
Thank you! Oh I hadn't thought of that, will have to remember for next time! x
Lots of great tips! I have all this to look forward to in the future.
Thank you 🙂 x
Nope I think those are great tips. We do it identically to you. But I have everything in one bag. Our journey is generally 2 1/2 hours and we stop once now that Matthew is potty trained.
Thank you Janine 🙂 yep we're the same with Sophie. We just have to hope she can hold it in long enough, until we can stop at the services! x
Great tips!! I love the rucksack idea.
Thank you 🙂 x
Great tips! Mine have always been great in the car, until they read….then their sick!
Oh no! x
This is a great list for tips and tricks. We don’t have kids yet, but we know we still want to travel when we do. I never thought to get a babysitter when travelling. Can’t wait to hear more recommendations. This makes me super excited to start a family and have adventures of our own.
Thanks for sharing!
Kim – condorny.com
Thank you! Ah how exciting! x