Whether the trip is long or short, traveling with kids is exhausting. There is a reason people say there is a difference between a vacation and a trip, and the main difference is those tiny humans that live in your house. We have been really lucky to be able to go on a variety of trips with our family, some short across-town trips and some outside of the country.
We have three boys under the age of 9, and I have learned a lot about travel, as you probably have as well. It just comes with the territory. I have learned to keep a basket for quick, on-the-go toys that I can add to a bag or put in the car at the last minute. These items aren’t played with, but in those situations. They are also great for restaurants and church.
Hack #1: Toys
We always keep 3 containers (the size of a plastic food container) filled with miscellaneous Legos. This is always a fan favorite in our household and usually keeps them occupied in the car or plane very easily. We also have fine motor activities like bead making, “hashtag” blocks, and even lacing activities with small strings. Think about getting some small zippered reusable bags to fill with small toys (doodle boards, colored pencils, etc.).
Hack #2: Blankets
My kids are way too big to use their baby blankets, but long car rides are one of the times I break them out. They are the perfect size for them in their seats so they can sleep or just get cozy to read. Having larger blankets always seems to add more chaos to the mix during road trips.
Hack #3: Cleaning Supplies
Not too long ago, we had a week-long experience where 2 of my kids puked in the car. Having extra plastic bags, wipes, and some good-smelling spray was crucial as we pulled over to deal with it all.
Hack #4: Vox Books
Head to your local library to experience this amazing tech feature they have added to books. It has a small device on each book. Kids can listen or plug in wired headphones to have the book read to them. This was an amazing experience on our road trip to Disney. The library also has physical Playaways that we haven’t checked out yet but are pre-loaded devices that play like an audiobook.
Hack #5: Podcasts
On a recent trip to St. Louis, we started listening to a variety of podcasts. The kids loved the science ones that were usually teaching them something ridiculous and funny. They also have great mystery stories that are read aloud that kept them entertained in the car…and super chill.
Obviously, snacks are a must on any kind of travel with kids. I try to pick some unique snacks, fan-favorites, and a few healthy choices in a cooler to make sure that there aren’t too many sugar crashes happening. For more hacks, see 4 Life Hacks from a Mom of 3 Boys.
