Going on a road trip with kids can be a memorable and exciting experience for the whole family but it can also be stressful and overwhelming if you're not prepared. One of the most crucial aspects of a successful road trip with kids is packing efficiently and effectively. From snacks and entertainment to safety gear and clothing, there are a lot of things to consider when packing for a road trip with kids. We’re here to provide you with tips and tricks to help make your packing process easier, so you can focus on creating fun memories with your family on your next road trip.

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Make a Packing List

Before you start packing, make a list of everything you need to bring. This will help you avoid forgetting anything important and ensure that you don't overpack. I LOVE a good list so this is one of my favorite parts of planning a trip. I keep a copy of my travel list saved in my Google drive. Keeping a saved copy saves me a lot of time and helps me to remember all of the important items. Divide your list into categories such as clothes, toiletries, entertainment, and snacks. If you prefer a paper list, this packing list notepad is perfect and easy to customize! If you would like something that is pre-filled, this notepad and journal look helpful!

Pack Smartly

Choose the Right Luggage

When selecting luggage, consider the size and number of bags needed, as well as their durability and weight. For a family road trip, a set of matching luggage with multiple sizes and compartments can be a great investment. Some of our favorites include the Samsonite Omni Hardside Set, the American Tourister Moonlight Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, and the Rockland Hardside Spinner Wheel Luggage Set.

Utilize Space Efficiently

Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space. Use packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space in your luggage.

When packing the vehicle, start with the larger items and the items that you won't need to access frequently. Then, move on to the smaller items and the ones that you'll need to access more often, such as snacks, water bottles, and entertainment items. By packing in a specific order, you can ensure that everything fits comfortably and that you can access the things you need without having to dig through everything.

Pack the Essentials

Pack only the essentials and avoid packing things you can easily buy at your destination. A crowded vehicle is no way to travel.

Don't Overpack

As a previous over packer, I can’t stress this enough. Avoid overpacking as it can make your luggage heavy and difficult to carry and takes up so much room. Stick to the essentials and make sure everything you pack has a purpose. Do you have access to a washing machine on your trip? If so, pack less clothing. I promise no one will care if you wear the same outfit twice. If we have access to a washing machine, I pack outfits for half of the number of days of the trip. (7 days would be 3-4 outfits.)

Keep Your Kids Entertained on the Road

Pack Snacks and Drinks

Packing snacks and drinks is essential when going on a road trip with kids. Hunger and thirst can easily lead to crankiness and tantrums, so it's important to have a variety of options on hand to keep everyone satisfied. Some good options include pre-packaged snacks like crackers, fruit snacks, and granola bars, as well as fresh fruit, cut-up veggies, and cheese sticks. Pack everyone’s water bottles to stay hydrated on the road. Check out our favorite healthy snacks for road trips here!

Prepare Road Trip Games + Books

How long will it take before the ever popular “Are we there yet?” occurs? Prepare road trip games to keep your kids (and yourself, let’s be real) entertained. We LOVE this road trip activity pack that has 20+ pages of activities. It’s a family favorite. We also love this license plate scavenger hunt game. We are a super competitive family and this one keeps everyone engaged in the trip. Card games are easy to pack and some can be played while on the road. Reading some of your favorite books about travel is always a great way to pass the time!

Bring Electronic Devices

Tablets are parenting tools in our house. Our kids have limited screen time at home but are allowed more while traveling. Download their favorite games and shows to keep your kids entertained during long stretches of driving. We try to balance screen activities versus being present and enjoying the journey. Boredom isn’t all bad! My son and I are prone to motion sickness so we love audiobooks!

Make Frequent Stops

Make frequent stops to let your kids stretch their legs, use the restroom, and get some fresh air. My husband and I hate stopping but we are now part of a family and our kids needs breaks. We try to find parks to have a picnic and get the crazies out!

Essential Road Trip Items

First Aid Kit

Pack a first aid kit that includes bandages, pain relievers, and any medication your family may need. Check out our travel first aid kit for kids for a complete list of items we pack for all of our trips.

Car Sickness

Car sickness can be a common issue for many children during road trips. To prevent this, it's important to pack some essential items such as plastic bags, wet wipes, and a change of clothes in case of any accidents. Encourage children to look out of the window rather than focusing on screens or reading books to reduce motion sickness. (My son is prone to motion sickness so he loves audio books!) Also, make frequent stops along the way for fresh air and to stretch legs. Consider anti-nausea medication if necessary.

Maps and GPS

When it comes to a road trip with kids, having GPS and maps is crucial. These tools can help you navigate through unfamiliar territories and find the best routes to take. With kids in the car, unexpected pit stops and detours are inevitable. It's important to be prepared. GPS and maps can help you find rest stops, gas stations, restaurants, and other important stops along the way. Additionally, they can provide a sense of security and peace of mind, especially when traveling in remote areas. Make sure to pack these navigation tools before embarking on your road trip with kids.

Sunscreen and Bug Spray

Don’t forget the sunscreen and bug repellent. These are items we typically pack because our favorites aren’t always readily available. I only pack the neccessities these days and one of those is our Solar Buddies sunscreen applicator. Less whining about sunscreen makes for a much more pleasant trip for everyone! I also pack some hydrocortisone cream for trips just in case!

Car Essentials

Bring car essentials such as jumper cables, a spare tire, extra batteries and a flashlight in case of emergency. It's important to make sure the car is in good working condition before hitting the road, such as checking the oil, tire pressure, and brakes. By taking these necessary precautions, you can ensure a smoother and stress-free road trip with your kids.

Maintaining a Clean and Organized Car

Maintaining a clean and organized car during a road trip with kids can help reduce stress and make the trip more enjoyable for everyone. Regularly cleaning up trash and clutter, wiping down surfaces, and using car organizers can help keep the car tidy and make it easier to find what you need when you need it. Some of our favorite items for maintaining a clean car are a trash can, a backseat car organizer so the kids can reach everything they need and Wet Ones.

Packing for a road trip with kids may seem overwhelming at first, but it is a crucial aspect of ensuring a successful and stress-free trip. By following our tips and tricks, you can pack efficiently and effectively while keeping your kids' safety, comfort, and entertainment in mind. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you and your family can enjoy a fun and memorable road trip.