If you’re not sure what to include, the advice below can help you come up with a list of items that make traveling a bit easier for everyone.
Planning a family road trip is a great way to keep your kids busy and well-behaved when you need to be on the go for a significant amount of time.
Here’s a list of things to pack for your next long family road trip.
1) Essential Documents
When packing for a family road trip, it’s important to make sure you have all the essential documents in case of emergencies. A driver’s license or passport is essential to rent a car and for crossing into any other country if needed.
It is also beneficial to bring insurance documents for the car in the rare case of an accident. Other important documents to bring are up-to-date copies of health insurance cards, birth certificates, and a copy of the car’s registration.
To ensure a stress-free trip, make sure your credit card and any necessary visas are also along for the ride. Packing these documents may seem mundane, but having them is essential, just in case.
2) Snacks & Beverages
Pack a variety of healthy snacks like trail mix, granola bars, and fresh fruit. Keep things like gummy candies, chips, and cookies around as a treat. Drinks are also important to bring along, including plenty of bottled water.
Don’t forget to pack juice boxes, individual cartons of milk, cans of soda, and sports drinks. Also, consider bringing along a bottle of wine or two for adults who are looking for a more relaxing option.
And for those coffee lovers in the car, bring a few coffee mugs and some instant coffee too. Of course, don’t forget to pack all snacks and beverages in an easily accessible container or bag that you can keep within easy reach whenever you need a nibble or a drink.
3) Entertainment Options
When planning a family road trip, entertainment options should be a top priority. Providing entertainment for the whole family will make the trip more enjoyable.
A few things to pack for entertainment on the trip are books, magazines, tablets, portable DVD players, movies, and a small selection of music. Sleeping bags and pillows can help with comfort in the car, and portable devices like a Nintendo Switch or Xbox can be great for when everyone gets out at stops.
Headphone extensions can be useful, as this way, everyone can enjoy their music or movie. With the right selection of entertainment, your family road trip can be a fun and memorable event.
4) Electronic Devices and Chargers
When planning a road trip, there are a few important items to remember to pack regarding electronic devices and chargers. To keep the kids occupied, pack their tablets, iPads, and/or laptops, along with the necessary chargers for each.
Portable game consoles, such as the Nintendo Switch, can also help pass the time during long car rides. Make sure that all electronic devices stay powered up during the trip, and stock up on extra batteries, power banks, and charging cables.
A car charger and a power cable extension cord can also be helpful accessories. Finally, to ensure the safety of your electronic devices, purchase a travel bag specially designed for electronics to keep them secure and protected while on the road.
5) Essential Road Trip Supplies
Essential road trip supplies are key when planning a family road trip. First, be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and, if applicable, meals for your family for the duration of your trip. To avoid losing your belongings during the trip, pack a collapsible bag for each family member.
Additionally, it’s important to bring a first aid kit and medications for the whole family. Make sure to pack entertainment for the drive, like games, vehicle activities, or travel apps. Don’t forget a couple of maps
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