If you’re planning a road trip with your kiddos this summer, I hope these tips help you plan! As a mom of four, I’ve packed the car, forgotten the snacks, dealt with meltdowns three hours in, and yes… heard “are we there yet?” 20 times before noon.
So this road trip with kids survival guide is everything that actually works in real life. Not the picture perfect version this is the messy, snack covered, sanity saving version. Let’s make your trip feel doable (and hopefully even fun!).
Start With Realistic Expectations
First things first, lower the bar just a little. A road trip with kids is not going to look like a quiet scenic drive with your favourite playlist and coffee in hand. It’s going to be loud, unpredictable, and full of snack requests.
And honestly? That’s okay. Once you expect a little chaos, everything feels easier. Instead of fighting it, lean into it. Build in extra time, plan for stops, and don’t schedule your drive down to the minute.
The Secret Weapon: Snacks (So Many Snacks)
I cannot stress this enough, snacks will make or break your road trip. I pack snacks like I’m preparing for a small apocalypse. Think variety, easy access, and minimal mess.
Here’s what always works for us:
- Cut fruit (grapes, apples, berries)
- Crackers and pretzels
- Granola bars
- Cheese strings
- Reusable water bottles
- “Treat” snacks (this is gold when things start going downhill)
- Having a juice box as a treat also works great
I use small containers or zip bags so each kid has their own stash. It cuts down on fighting and makes it feel a little special. I’ve also used brown bags for novelty as well as their lunch bags from school. Just use whatever you have on hand!
Also, keep a small garbage bag within reach. It saves your car from turning into a disaster zone.
Plan Stops (Even If You Don’t Think You Need Them)
Even if your kids are great in the car, they still need breaks. We try to stop every 2–3 hours. Not just for bathroom breaks but to move, reset, and burn off some energy.
Look for:
- Parks
- Rest stops with green space
- Fast food places with play areas (see note below)
Fast food places with play areas are a great option for many of our friends. You’ve got food, washrooms and activity all under one roof. For us personally, we tend to avoid these and opt for outdoor spots due to the germs indoor play areas offer. We have had a few bad experiences of kiddos getting tummy bugs post indoor play and it’s not fun while on the road and away from home! If indoor play works best for you, make sure to bring your sanitizer or wash those sweet little hands. The goal is to let them run. Let them be loud. It makes the next stretch of driving so much smoother.
Entertainment That Actually Works
This is where a little prep goes a long way. I like to think in layers because no single activity will last the whole trip.
Screen Time (No Guilt Here)
Yes, we use tablets. And yes, it’s okay. Download movies or shows ahead of time so you’re not relying on Wi-Fi. Add headphones to avoid chaos.
The “Are We There Yet?” Kit (Screen-Free Travel Activities for Kids)
Each kiddo gets an “Are We There Yet?” Kit with a few things:
- Coloring books
- Crayons or markers
- Sticker books
- Small toys
- Lego
- Snacks
I don’t give it all at once. Instead, I rotate items to keep things feeling new. If you are looking for more inspiration for your own “Are We There Yet?” Kit, take a peek here! (coming soon)
Road Trip Games
Simple games go a long way:
- I Spy
- License plate game
- Would You Rather
- 20 Questions
Sometimes these end up being the best memories of the trip.
Pack an “Emergency Kit”
This is something I never skip anymore.
Keep it up front where you can grab it easily. Mine usually includes:
- Wipes (always wipes)
- Hand sanitizer
- Extra clothes for younger kids
- Paper towels
- Plastic bags (for wet or messy things)
- Basic first aid items
- Motion sickness supplies if needed
Because something will spill. Someone will get messy. It’s just part of the deal.
Timing Matters More Than You Think
If you can, plan your drive around your kids’ natural rhythms. For us, early mornings work best. Everyone is still a little sleepy, and we can get a good chunk of driving done before the energy kicks in.
Another option is driving during nap time or even in the evening if your kids sleep well in the car. You don’t have to follow a perfect schedule, just think about when your kids are usually at their calmest.
Keep It Flexible (This Is a Big One)
This might be the most important part of this road trip with kids survival guide.
Things will not go exactly as planned. Someone will get cranky. Someone will spill their drink. You might need to stop more often than you expected. Instead of getting frustrated, try to flow with it.
Some of our best moments have come from unplanned stops a random park, an ice cream break, or just pulling over to stretch and laugh for a minute. When we couldn’t find a kid friendly spot to stop, we’ve even done jumping jacks and simon says game outside coffee shops. Remember that you also need body and brain breaks so you are fresh for the next leg.
Give Kids a Little Ownership
This one works especially well with older kids.
Let them help:
- Pick snacks at the store
- Choose a movie or playlist
- Pack their own activity bag
It makes them feel involved and they’re usually more excited (and cooperative) because of it.
Don’t Forget Yourself
It’s easy to focus on the kids and forget about your own comfort. But a happy mom (or parent) makes a big difference.
Bring:
- Your favorite drink or coffee
- A good playlist or podcast
- Comfortable clothes
And if you need a moment of quiet at a stop, take it.
The Truth About Road Trips With Kids
Here’s the honest part. Not every moment is going to feel magical. There will be noise. There will be mess. There might even be a few “why did we do this?” moments. But there will also be laughter. Silly conversations. Little memories that stick.
And when you look back, those are the parts you remember. We also have many memories of chaotic moments or mishaps that make us all laugh now. In the moment they were a challenge, but now we laugh at how nuts some of the situations were!
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!
If you take anything from this road trip with kids survival guide, let it be this: You don’t need to do it perfectly. Pack the snacks. Plan a few stops. Bring some activities. And then just go.
Your kids won’t remember whether everything went smoothly, but they will remember that you went together. And honestly, that’s what matters most.
If you’re planning your summer travels, you might also love some easy snack ideas and boredom busters for kids (those have saved me more than once on long days at home and on the road). We’ve used them while camping, Grandma and Grandpa’s house, rainy days and waiting for appointments. Find more ideas for your “Are We There Yet?” Kit (Screen-Free Travel Activities for Kids) -coming soon!
From one parent to another, you’ve got this! Although road trips with kids can be very challenging at times, I promise your kiddos will have the best memories of travelling together through both the ups and the downs!