Road trips are a great way to spend time with your family. You get to bond during the long journey and explore new places together. Perhaps best of all, you and your family are sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.
However, especially when you have a large family, road trips can also be stressful. From ensuring there is enough space to making sure everyone is entertained, there are a lot of factors to consider. Take a look at some tips here you can use on your next family road trip to make it one everyone will look back on fondly.
Transportation – How Are You Going to Get There?
You might have a car big enough to hold all of your family members, but what about the luggage? Especially when going camping or to the beach, you are going to need plenty of storage space in your vehicle.
You might consider taking two cars in order to fit everyone and everything. This is a plus because you can split up children who might not get along for a long car ride. However, two people will have to drive at once, meaning there is less opportunity to switch drivers. The best solution is to hire a passenger van also called a people carrier, these are becoming more popular with mid size families and come with a range of seating layouts including 7 and 8 seater SUVs and large 9 seater passenger vans. For the latest deals, check out MPV Rentals that have loads of experience in arranging this type of transport.
Many people rent cars for their road trips. You get to choose a vehicle that meets your family’s needs, and you won’t have to put miles on a car you already own. There are car rental comparison services that can help you find an affordable deal, such as this one in the U.K. that has been matching people with cars for over 12 years. Even if you own a car that is big enough, renting can help you prevent wear and tear and save on gas with fuel-efficient options.
Packing – What to Bring?
Now that you have a vehicle that meets your family’s needs, you should pack accordingly. Consider where you are going and what kind of clothes/activities/other items you’ll need. Be careful not to pack too much as you don’t want to overdo it, but also make sure you have all of the essentials.
Entertainment – What Are You Playing?
You’ve made it onto the road! Now what? Kids have short attention spans, and when they are trapped in a confined space for hours, tensions can run high. You’ll want to make sure they are occupied to prevent restlessness and fighting.
Some parents debate over whether or not to let their kids have unlimited screen time on a road trip. It’s a great way to keep them occupied, and once you reach your destination, you can have them focus on the vacation at hand.
If you don’t want your kids to have unlimited screen time, other options include audio books, physical books, road trip games, and good old-fashioned conversation.
Snacks – What Are You Eating?
Your family is going to get hungry on the road. With so many mouths to feed, eating out frequently can quickly add up. For healthier and more cost-efficient meals, pack food that everyone can eat on the road.
It’s a good idea to pack snacks that aren’t as messy: grapes, carrots, popcorn, granola bars, and string cheese are a few good options. A small cooler also will come in handy and be sure to pack plenty of water!
Take Advantage of Breaks
You are inevitably going to have to make pit stops. To make the most out of breaks, ensure everyone uses the bathroom and gets food as needed. Also encourage your kids to get up, stretch, and run around a little. This will help them release energy and not be so antsy.
Keep these tips in mind and you’ll have a fun family road trip that is as stress-free as possible!
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