Nothing brings the whole family together quite like a road trip…

Stuck in a cramped space for hours on end, it doesn't take much for a simple game of I Spy or a Nintendo Switch going flat for an all-out war to break out in the back seat! Throw in a little hunger, some thirstiness and some ‘are we there yet?’s, and your fun road trip has taken an unpleasant turn.

But by preparing yourself for any sibling showdowns or unexpected detours, you’ll ensure your whole family enjoys the journey, providing more time for creating fun memories.

Let’s explore some handy tips on how to prepare for a stress-free family road trip.

Pack Like a Pro

Packing for a road trip doesn’t need to be hard—you just need to be prepared. That is, make a list.

Write down everything you need and tick things off as you go. Try to pack with the three Cs in mind:

Comfort: Allowing everyone enough room to sit
Convenience: Making sure that belongings are easily accessible
Clear mind: By packing strategically and cutting out the things you don’t need, you give yourself more space to breathe.

Keep essentials like keys, phone chargers, tissues and hand sanitiser stored within easy reach in the console or glove compartment, and larger items in the bottom of the boot as far forward as possible.

Parents should also include useful items such as:

Glasses
Comfortable shoes
Sunscreen
Umbrella
Rubbish bags
Disinfectant wipes
First aid kit

For the kids, pack a variety of clothes. This should include jumpers, raincoats, underwear and socks, along with a spare set of clothing to keep up with any unpredictable weather.

Also pack things that will keep them well-fed and hydrated:

Healthy snacks like grapes, crackers, apple slices, or muesli bars
Treats like chocolate, lollies, pretzels or chips
Reusable bottles filled with water or fruit juice
Reusable cups for easy sipping

And entertained:

Books
Blankets
Pencils and pens
Wireless headphones
Non-noisy toys (for younger kids)

Be sure to bring a mix of activities, like puzzles, card games and colouring books, so your kids can keep themselves occupied and away from screens.

Establish a Smooth Schedule

Staying on schedule as a parent is a lot easier said than done, even during the holidays!

Try as we might, we can’t be in control of everything. So by creating a loose but reliable schedule, you prepare yourself for any changes that might spring up, making for a more relaxing trip ahead.

Plan your route using navl systems and other mobile apps to determine which highways to take and to estimate travel times. Set breaks around kids' usual routines (like nap times), so you have a chance to use the toilet, stretch your legs and grab a coffee.

Consider scenic routes and other interesting attractions that might pique your family's interests, offering new experiences and a chance to let off a little steam. Find things to do that will tire the kids out, so they can have a nice little nap in the car afterwards, creating a calmer and much happier atmosphere and avoiding the risk of any tears or backseat temper tantrums!

Make Memories

The biggest part of any family road trip is definitely the memories you’ll make along the way. Here are some ideas for capturing those moments.

Go old-school and hand out disposable cameras, so your kids can take snapshots they can later put in their own photo albums. Collect souvenirs or send yourself postcards as a keepsake or encourage them to write or draw what they see and feel in their own travel journals, giving your kids something that they can one day look back on.

But, of course, kids will be kids: Disagreements are bound to happen, especially after being cooped up in the car for so long. Create a more positive atmosphere by reaching a compromise that meets everyone's needs. Encourage open communication without judgement or blame, focusing on the issue at hand. And embrace the good and challenging parts of your family road trip—remember, it's all part of the adventure!

Screen–Free Entertainment

Phones and tablets can be a lifesaver on a family road trip, but it's also important for kids to take in their surroundings and to actually interact with their parents without sending it in a text!

When thinking of tech-free entertainment, aim for a mix of novelty and nostalgia. Dig into the classics like I Spy, 20 Questions or Who Am I? that will keep the kids guessing for hours. Reinvent old games or make up new ones, with the only limit being your imagination. Create a song playlist for fun singalongs or listen to an audiobook that's suitable for the whole family.

Navigating Mealtime

Every parent knows that mealtimes are not an easy time, especially on a road trip. But it’s possible to find simple, nutritious meals and food containers that help avoid any mealtime meltdowns.

Balance healthy snacks like fresh-cut fruit and veggies, healthy sandwiches or wraps with indulgent treats to fill those hungry tummies and up energy levels throughout the day. Cut down on waste by using reusable cups and stick to easy-to-make meals and non-perishables that won't make much of a mess.

Turn mealtime into an adventure by picking out kid-friendly spots, like quiet picnic spots, colourful play areas or restaurants with a unique or interesting theme, letting the kids stretch their legs. Take in the sights and sample local delicacies in the area, bringing home fresh produce and other ingredients to use in your own delicious meals.

A family road trip isn't just about the destination. It’s also about the journey! Of course, challenges will arise along the way, whether it be a fight over what song to play next or asking, ‘are we there yet?' for the hundredth time. But don’t beat yourself up if things don’t go according to plan (do they ever?).

At the end of the day, what your kids will remember most is the little things—the laughter, the conversations, the unexpected adventures—strengthening your bond with one another and creating a lifetime of amazing memories to cherish.

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.