A road trip with the family could be one of the best experiences of your life. It could also be one of the worst.
Time on the road can be a great way to strengthen bonds with your loved ones, and form memories that will last a lifetime. On the other hand, too much time in a confined space with people you’re happy to tell how you really feel can go very wrong, very quickly.
Surviving a road trip with the family can be tough, but help is at hand with our family car trip safety briefing card. Be sure to pass one to each member of the family prior to departure, then sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Or try to, anyway…
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More Tips and Ideas for Surviving a Family Car Trip
Pick the Right Destination
It may be the journey and not the destination that matters most but everyone will be happier, more patient, and just all-round in a better mood if they have something to look forward to at the end of the trip.
Pack Plenty of Activities
Books, music and movies (if you have the means to play them) all help pass the time and reduce boredom (just make sure to keep them all within easy reach). However, this is a family trip, so plan some car games you can play together, too.
And Plenty of Snacks
Snacks are an excellent distraction when kids start getting antsy (plus we all need to eat and food on the road can be pricey, so you can help cut costs by coming prepared).
Don’t forget to bring drinks, either. Mini juice cartons are always popular with kids, but pack plenty of water, too.
Schedule Stops
You’ll inevitably have to make one or two unscheduled stops along the way but planning when and where you want to take a break ahead of time can help you make the most of your time off the road.
Don’t just stop at service stations – why not take a short detour and visit a new town, have a picnic in a park, or check out a local attraction? Just remember to pack a sunshade for the front window so your car stays cool while you’re away.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
Check your oil and brake fluid levels and the tread on your tyres before you leave, and ensure you never run too low on petrol.
Pack a first aid kit, tool kit, a torch, pillows and a blanket, and just in case, a map – you never know when your sat-nav might fail.
Skip the Queues with Traffic-Beating Apps
Apps like Waze and iExit notify you when there’s traffic up ahead and help you find an alternative route.