Long Road Trips with Kids

As a mom, the thought of a long road trip with kids can stir up a mix of excitement and dread. On one hand, there's the promise of adventure, of seeing new places, and creating memories together as a family. On the other hand, there's the inevitable challenge of keeping kids entertained, managing the endless requests for snacks, and the occasional meltdown that comes with hours on the road. But beyond the struggles, there's something truly magical about these journeys—the chance to bond, to teach, and to witness the world through our children's eyes.

Expect the Unexpected

Before we dive into the hacks and tips that make these trips smoother, let's talk about the reality of road trips with kids. If there's one thing I've learned, it's that no amount of planning can account for everything. There will be unexpected detours, both literally and figuratively. Your toddler might suddenly decide they hate their car seat, or your preteen might discover they dont like their brothers blanket touching their seat.

But here's the thing: these moments, while challenging, are also opportunities. They teach us patience, creativity, and the importance of flexibility. They remind us that the journey is just as important as the destination.

Essential Hacks for a Smoother Ride

Now, let's get into the practical stuff—those little hacks that can make a world of difference on the road.

1. Snack Attack: Never underestimate the power of snacks. I always pack a variety of options like fruit, sandwiches, granola bars, chips, juice, along with a few treats for when morale needs a boost. Consider packing a small cooler or tub to keep things fresh and accessible. And don't forget to involve the kids in the process—they'll love choosing their own snacks, and it gives them a sense of control over the trip.

2. Entertainment on Wheels: Keeping kids entertained is key to a peaceful journey. While screens can be a lifesaver, I try to balance screen time with other activities. Podcasts, and music are a fantastic option that the whole family can enjoy. We also bring along travel games, coloring books, Lego's, sticker books, and even simple crafts that can be done in the car.

3. Comfort is King: Long hours in the car can be tough on little bodies, so I make sure everyone is as comfortable as possible. Pillows, blankets, and even favorite stuffed animals can make a big difference. We also take regular stops to stretch, run around, and burn off some energy. And if you're road schooling, these stops can double as impromptu lessons—whether it's learning about the local wildlife at a rest area or practicing map-reading skills.

4. Road Schooling: Learning on the Go: Speaking of road schooling, this is one of the beautiful aspects of road trips that often gets overlooked. Traveling is an incredible educational experience for kids. It’s hands-on, immersive, and engaging. Whether we're discussing the history of a town we're passing through, identifying different types of clouds in the sky, or calculating the miles to our next stop, the opportunities for learning are endless!

Incorporating road schooling doesn't have to be complicated. Simple conversations about what you see outside the window, reading signs together, or even letting your kids help with navigation can turn a regular drive into an interactive learning experience. It's a reminder that education doesn't always have to happen within four walls.

5. Embrace the Unplanned Moments: Some of our best memories from road trips are from the unplanned moments—the roadside attractions we stumbled upon, the surprise rainstorm, or the time we decided on a whim to take a different route and discovered a hidden gem of a park. These moments are a reminder that sometimes, it's okay to go off-script. Embrace the detours, and don't be afraid to change your plans if something more exciting comes along.

Keeping It Real

Now, let’s get real about the struggles. There are times when road trips can feel overwhelming. The constant noise, the never-ending requests for bathroom breaks, and the challenge of navigating new places while keeping everyone happy can be exhausting.

I vividly remember one particularly challenging drive through the Colorado mountains on our last road trip from the Rockies. We were cruising along when a sudden rainstorm hit, and the road became a terrifying obstacle course of standing water! Cars around us were hydroplaning, and I could feel the tension building in the car as we navigated through one scary moment after another. My knuckles were white on the steering wheel, and I could barely breathe as I focused on keeping us safe.

I drove for about an hour straight, white knuckles, up and down, sharp curves, and standing water. The truck in front of me hit a large puddle of water and it came back and hit my windshield. Not only was i next to a large diesel, and now couldn't see at all, driving 55 mph, I was also hydroplaning! It was about 10 more miles, and i found an exit with a gas station and market. I pulled off the highway, and parked the car. i took my hands off the steering wheel and cupped them together. My 10-year-old son quietly told me he was praying that whole time. It was such a simple statement, but it grounded me in that moment, reminding me of the strength and faith my children carry with them. Then, my 9-year-old son, sensing my stress, said, "It's okay to cry, Mom. Everyone needs to cry sometimes." His words broke through the fear, and I felt a wave of emotion wash over me. The tears came, not just from the stress, but from the overwhelming love and wisdom that my children showed in that moment. They were comforting me in their own ways, and it was a humbling reminder that we’re all in this journey together, supporting each other through the tough times.

Why It’s All Worth It

Despite the challenges, there are those beautiful moments that make it all worthwhile. The moments when the car is filled with laughter, when the kids are happily engrossed in a game or story, and you catch a glimpse of a stunning sunset over the horizon. It's in these moments that I realize the magic of road trips. It's not just about reaching our destination; it's about the journey we're on together.

There’s something incredibly special about seeing the world through your children’s eyes—whether it's their awe at seeing the ocean for the first time or their excitement as they spot a deer on the side of the road or a train a mile away! These are the moments that remind me why we do this, why we choose the sometimes-chaotic adventure of a road trip over the simplicity of staying home.

The Journey is the Destination

As I reflect on the past 2 and a half years we’ve spent on the road, I’m struck by how these experiences have shaped us as a family. What started as living in a camper, traveling the U.S. has evolved into a lifestyle hobby, one that has brought us closer together and opened our eyes to the incredible diversity and beauty of the world. We've crisscrossed the country several times, from the chaotic and intense highways in the city to the quiet, hidden corners of nature, and in doing so, we've learned so much—not just about the places we've visited, but about each other.

These travels have been filled with challenges—more than I could have ever anticipated. But they’ve also been filled with moments of pure joy and wonder. We've laughed together until our sides hurt, played the ABC game, shared stories under the stars, and faced fears that I never imagined we’d encounter. And through it all, we've grown stronger, more resilient, and more connected as a family.

What I've come to realize is that road trips are about so much more than getting from point A to point B. They're about the in-between moments—the ones that aren't planned, the ones that surprise you, and the ones that challenge you to grow. They're about the lessons learned along the way and the memories that will last a lifetime.

So, to all the moms out there preparing for a road trip with kids, remember this: it won't always be easy, but it will be worth it. Embrace the chaos, savor the quiet moments {when they come up}, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. After all, these are the stories you'll be telling for years to come—the memories that will bring smiles to your faces long after the trip is over.

As for us, our journey on the road isn’t over yet. We’ll keep exploring, keep learning, and keep embracing every twist and turn along the way. Happy Travels!