Safety First
As always, safety should be a priority during your vacation. Start by making sure your car is up-to-date on its proper maintenance. Also remember to pack a flashlight, jumper cables, and a tire gauge when preparing your car, and double-check that your spare tire and jack are in their places. These items can be real lifesavers if you find yourself in a jam. Purchase or assemble a first aid kit that contains all the things your family might need in case of a minor emergency or accident.
Fun and Games
Avoid the infamous question, "Are we there yet?" Keep your children entertained with audio books, personal CD players, and video games. Visit your local library for tapes and CDs. You may also want to play games as a family. Noncompetitive word games, such as MAD LIBS, are ideal because they educate while they entertain.
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WHY MAD LIBS ARE GREAT ROAD GAMES
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MAD LIBS books can create loads of fun for travelers. The players simply fill in the blanks of a short story. The key is that only one player is allowed to see the story. This player instructs the other players to offer nouns, verbs, adjectives, or adverbs to fill in the blanks. The result is a hysterical tale the entire family will enjoy. Check www.amazon.com for a selection of themed MAD LIBS books.
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Another way to keep your kids occupied is to give them their own map. Highlight your travel route so they can have their own visual representation of how long it will take to reach your destination.
Food for the Family
Cut down on food costs and increase nutrition by bringing meals with you instead of stopping for fast food. Pack sandwiches, veggie sticks, and pretzels for lunch. Be sure to include plenty of fluids, such as bottled water and juice boxes. Bring along some dry cereal and trail mix for snacks, and you'll be set until dinner.
Ready, Set, Go
The way you leave for your vacation can set the tone for the entire trip, so make sure your departure is smooth. Leaving early in the morning allows your children to sleep awhile, reducing their perceived travel time.
Once the car is packed, all that's left to do is turn up the air conditioning, lock the windows and doors, and hit the road.
