February 25, 2026

10 Road Trip Tips for Traveling With Kids That Actually Work

Spring Break is almost here, and we are taking a beach trip and cannot wait! We do much more driving than flying for several reasons 1.) the cost 2.) we can take more with us 3.) we can take our time. For us, it is just easier to drive with all 5 of us. Road tripping with kids takes a lot of planning, but I promise it is 100% worth it! Getting to show your kids the world and see them experience it through their eyes is really something. They learn about geography, landscape, history, different cultures and foods and so much more. It’s one of those experiences that I think can really shape not only your children, but you also. And it creates memories that will last with you forever. In case you have some road trips coming up too, I wanted to share my top 10 tips for road tripping with kids.

1.) Set expectations (to your spouse and your kids up front!) Let them know how long of a drive it is, how often you plan to stop and when your next bathroom or food break is, and what you will do when you arrive to your destination. It can’t change the outcome of the trip, but it can change their outlook on how they approach a long drive. = )

2.) Pack fun (but easy and not messy) snacks they don’t get often. Think exciting! Nothing is better than a fun, exciting snack on a road trip that is a treat to them!

3.) Pack fun and engaging toys that are new to them (pack enough for all the kids so they don’t fight over them!) Let the kids have a say in what toys you pack too!

4.) Pack pillows and blankets (for napping or chilly car rides.) This will help during nap time in the car too! They may not get in all their nap (or one at all), but it certainly does help! You can even get the little window shades to help some with a sunny car ride.

5.) Leave early. There is usually less traffic earlier in the morning, and it allows you to arrive before the kids start having more meltdowns. Also, know that your plan may not go as planned. = )

6.) Make a playlist in advance with kids’ songs and kid-friendly adult songs, that way you all have something you love and it alternates. For the older kids, headphones with their own music is a great way for them to get their music while you can get your own or a podcast. It’s better than 7 hours of Cocomelon. = )

7.) Pack wipes, ziplock bags, and trash bags on hand. These are things we don’t always think of keeping in our vehicle, but they always come in handy on road trips, especially with kids. And if you’re going to a place that has a kitchen where you can cook, we always love having ziplock bags for leftovers.

8.) Keep these important items in a bag close by. Lip balm, Kleenex, snacks, hand sanitizer. Keep them by you or behind the console so you can reach them quickly and easily. Cleanups will be needed usually!

9.) Keep a cooler with plenty of drinks on hand. No one wants to get dehydrated and get a headache on a car ride. Pack plenty of drinks (I prefer ones that won’t stain if spilled, and spill-proof cups. Also, pack a travel potty for the vehicle too just in case! It can be a lifesaver if stuck in traffic.

10.) Keep an emergency kit with items like band-aids, Neosporin, and Motrin in it. You never know when accidents will happen. Also, you should always have a great emergency car kit in case you have car trouble too!

There are several things that we keep in the vehicle at all times in case we need them, and then we add in others for trips. Trust me, these things will come in handy more often than you think. Even after late nights out after a sports game with the kids or a day at the fair. It’s good to have keep so many of these in your car. I’ve also linked some great toys for the kids that are perfect for road trips above. Check out my list below and let me know what are your must have essentials for road trips with kids.