Keeping Kids Entertained On A Long Trip

This post may contain affiliate links which gives us commission at no additional cost to you. We may also feature items we received for review.

Taking the family on a long trip, especially a car ride, can be so fun, but incredibly daunting. But nothing is impossible as long as you plan ahead, bring entertainment and know exactly what to expect to make a long car ride with kids and toddlers as smooth as possible.

Family vacations and spontaneous trips are great opportunities to get away; don’t let the fact that there’s young children involved put a stop to the adventure. A road trip is possible with a young child as long as the family is properly informed, equipped and prepared for the endeavor.

Plan Ahead

Plan ahead when bringing a younger toddler on a long drive to ensure a successful trip. Knowing what to bring, which route to take and how long to drive are key factors to think about before departure. Every toddler is different in his behavior so make sure to keep their habits in mind while planning including nap times, energy levels, and snacking.

Map the expected route and plan the desired gas stations and rest stops. It’s not necessary to follow a strict schedule, only to have a general idea of the layout of the trip. This makes it easier to plan around the young children who will no doubt be getting cranky and restless in no time. Account for extended delays in the total trip time, allowing sufficient time for a toddler to run around and stretch at stops.

Depending on the length of the trip, overnight stays may have to be arranged. Search for the accommodations that are the most compatible for a toddler. If none can provide a crib or bed for the child, it may be wise to pack a play pen as a portable bed. A room equipped with a mini fridge may also be useful for storing snacks needed for the trip.

What to Bring

It’s important not to forget any of the necessities when traveling with a toddler for a long drive. A sufficient amount of diapers, toys, and snacks are among the needed items for the trip. For the toddlers’ comfort, they should be dressed in loose, comfortable clothes, with some extras packed as well. If the child is teething, teething rings and toys to soothe the pain would be an important asset.

Screens for the windows are good to prevent the sun from shining in and causing discomfort for the toddler. Easy snacks are also very important. Pack a cooler with milk, water and plenty of simple snacks for the stops. Fruit, crackers and sandwiches make great, healthy travel food that is easy to enjoy on the road or at rest stops.

Effective In-Car Entertainment

In-car entertainment is essential for children of all ages on a road trip. Remember to pack favorite toys, books and music to keep toddlers content for the rough road ahead. Small picture books and preferred stories are a great way to occupy a restless child and stimulate them as well. Toys that can be attached to the car seat and not easily thrown will make for a less frustrating ride for the children and parents alike.

For older children, portable board games, books, and a tablet or phone preloaded with games are a great option. There are also great websites like Solitaire.org that have dozens of simple card games that the family can play individually or together- and many to learn for hours of entertainment. with options like Solitaire, Thirty One, even crosswords and arcade style games, and more! Your kids will be sure to find their favorite game or find a new one to play keeping them extra entertained learning how to play.

A portable DVD player is also a genius tool for long car rides. For children who love movies, it’s a great way to keep them happy and entertained for at least an hour and a half. Sing-alongs are an effective way to include the toddler while also paying attention to the road. Many kids love to listen to their parents sing, an upbeat song will hold their interest and put them in better spirits if they are beginning to get moody from the drive.

Remember to put the kids first and plan effectively around them, and a long car trip with young kids can be successful, and possibly enjoyable.