The sun is shining, my kids are out of school, and the open road beckons. Summer screams for adventure, and what better way to create lasting memories than a classic family road trip? That's how we do it. North America boasts a diverse landscape, from towering mountains to glistening coastlines, charming towns, and quirky roadside attractions. But conquering hundreds of miles with a car full of restless backseat passengers requires some planning and creativity. Here are 15 tips to turn your summer road trip into an unforgettable journey for the whole family.
Planning and Preparation:
Get your route setup: It's important I say this, don't just blindly take off to explore the open country. Before I set off, I take time to plan my route with my husband. I research the destinations I want to visit, the best routes to get there, and any interesting stops along the way. North America is huuuuge! (Yes with that many G's). Decide on a destination (mountains, beaches, national parks?) or choose a scenic route with interesting stops. Consider everyone's interests – historical sites for history buffs, water parks for the little ones. Utilize online resources and road trip apps to map your route, estimate driving times, and discover hidden gems along the way. More specifically use apps like Google Maps or Roadtrippers to create a detailed itinerary.
Pack Strategically: Pack light clothes for summer, but don't forget layers for unexpected weather changes. Make a checklist of essentials such as clothing, toiletries, medications, and any special items for your kids. Don’t forget to pack a first aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water. Pack a dedicated "entertainment bag" filled with travel games, activity books, and small toys to keep car troubles at bay. Pack healthy snacks and refillable water bottles to avoid constant fast-food stops.
Vehicle TLC: Get your car serviced before embarking on a long journey. A successful road trip starts with a reliable vehicle. Before you leave, take your car in for a check-up to ensure it’s in good condition. Check the oil and mileage since last oil change, ensure tire pressure is correct, and top up fluids. Make sure you have a spare tire, and jumper cables. It’s also wise to have a roadside kit and roadside assistance plan such as AAA in case of emergencies. Consider investing in a portable car charger for electronic devices.
Keeping the Crew Happy:
Embrace the Journey: I find long hours on the road to be challenging, and energy zapping, especially for my kids. Bring a variety of entertainment options to keep everyone occupied. Road trips are about the adventure, not just the destination. Make frequent stops to stretch your legs, explore quirky roadside attractions (the world's biggest ball of twine anyone?), or have a picnic lunch in a scenic spot.
Power to the Passengers: I get my backseat family amped up by letting them choose the playlist for certain stretches of the road, or letting them be "navigators" using a physical map. For your family, I suggest packing a travel journal for them to document their experiences with drawings and stories, or any thing else you feel might keep them up and engaged.
Tech Time Limits: Screens are tempting, but too much screen time for long trips can lead to fatigue and crankiness. My kids are bigger now, but I used to set time limits for electronics and encourage alternative activities like reading, playing car games (I Spy, Alphabet game), or listening to audiobooks, it's great for their minds and building physical human interaction.
Embrace the Sing-Along: Create a family road trip playlist filled with classic sing-alongs, silly songs, and everyone's favorites. Belt them out at the top of your lungs – guaranteed to create lasting memories (and maybe some embarrassing videos!).
Snack Time Magic: Avoid sugary treats that lead to crashes. Pack a cooler with healthy, portioned snacks like fruits, veggies with dip, cheese and crackers, and homemade granola bars. Let the kids help with packing the cooler and choosing healthy options.
Making Memories:
Become Junior Rangers: Many national parks and protected areas offer Junior Ranger programs, complete with activity booklets and badges. This is a fantastic way to engage kids in learning about the environment and history of the places they visit.
Embrace the Outdoors: Plan activities that get everyone moving. Go for a hike, rent bikes for a scenic ride, or have a game of frisbee in a park. Include outdoor activities your whole family enjoys, and explore the natural wonders North America has to offer.
Capture the Moments: Take photos throughout your trip, but don't forget to be present in the moment. Put down your phone sometimes and soak in the scenery with your loved ones. Consider disposable cameras for the kids – they'll love the novelty and the surprise of developed pictures.
Local Flavor: I'm a small business owner from New York City where cost of living is super high. I like to support other local businesses by eating at family-run restaurants and buying souvenirs from craft fairs. Go ahead and sample regional specialties – lobster rolls in Maine (Mmm one of my favorite), barbeque in the south, or fresh seafood on the coast.
Stargazing Extravaganza: Find a dark spot away from light pollution and marvel at the night sky. Download a stargazing app to identify constellations and planets. Tell stories about constellations or make up your own.
Camp Out Under the Stars: If you're feeling adventurous like I'm always feeling, consider camping under the stars. National parks and campgrounds offer beautiful settings for a night under the canvas. Make sure to research camping regulations and pack accordingly.
The Power of Flexibility: Be prepared to adapt your plans. Unexpected detours can lead to hidden gems, and sometimes you just need to take a break and relax by a lake instead of sticking rigidly to a schedule. Embrace the unexpected and enjoy the flow of the journey.
Summer road trip are a bonding experience for me and my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. With a little planning, some creativity, and a dash of flexibility, you can turn your next road trip into an unforgettable adventure.
