If you can’t face a long flight with a baby, a family road trip is a fun option for a holiday. Whether you are visiting family for Christmas or venturing through the British countryside, a road trip with little ones can be challenging. Here are some tips to make those long car journeys a little easier, especially if, like mine, your baby hates the car seat.
Choose a Comfortable Car and Deck it Out
Comfort is everything when it comes to road trips, but even the most luxurious cars aren’t totally decked out with little ones in mind. If you venture on many long journeys with your family or simply drive a lot, why not invest in a stylish and spacious car or rent something luxurious for the trip? The new Vauxhall from Peter Vardy, for example, is a great option for families. I upgraded from my mini when I had Jolie and it changed my life. Trust me, you will be grateful for that investment when you’re hitting hour nine on the road. Don’t forget to install a handy little mirror in the back so you can see when your little one is happy during your trip.
Take Entertainment
It’s no secret that kids get bored very easily, especially on the road and babies are no exception. Make sure to pack activity books, stickers and coloured pencils to entertain them and if your baby is little, those trusty sensory toys that attach to the car seat.
Research a few car games, like yellow car and eye spy to make driving fun for the kids as well. You can even download a few family-friendly audio books and playlists to enjoy together. An Ipad Mini attached to a holder is also a great idea when only Peppa Pig can keep them quiet. Don’t forget to download a few episodes so you don’t drain your data during the journey!
Pack a Fresh Change of Clothes (for you and baby)
After a few hours in the car, everyone will start to feel a little grubby. Use packing cubes to divide up your family’s clothes so that you can grab them easily in an emergency. Make sure to also pack pyjamas for your children. If you are driving late into the night, they can change into their comfy clothes and go to sleep in the car. Pack at least 3 outfits for your little one and a spare outfit for you.
Lots of Snacks
Nobody likes being hangry, especially children. Service stations tend to be expensive and often full of unhealthy food. While it feels good in the moment, greasy food will only make you feel more tired and grimy.
Pre-pack lunch and light snacks, such as carrot sticks, hummus, crisps and granola bars.
Pillows and blankets
Brrrrrrrrrrrrr. Pack cosy blankets that will keep your little one nice and warm throughout.
Take Regular Breaks
Don’t forget to schedule in little breaks to stretch your legs and give your little one a break from the car seat. The rules change all the time when it comes to the recommended time limit for babies and toddlers so do your research before you go.
Keep your kids warm, well-fed and most importantly, entertained on car journeys and fill up with petrol before you set off! A road trip with a baby is not the time for petrol roulette!
*This was a collaborative post with Peter Vardy but my love of roadtripping (and car snacks) are 100% my own.
