Updated: December 10, 2025
Road trips with children require smart planning and the right supplies. This guide covers essential strategies like preparing activity bags, using voice assistants for packing reminders, charging devices ahead of time, and keeping snacks within reach. Learn practical solutions for managing messes, potty emergencies, and entertainment that keep everyone happy during long drives.
Tips For Traveling In The Car With Kids
Make A Check List
As soon as I book a trip, I make a list of everything I need to remember.
I also make sure to not forget their "Lovey" – meaning their significant sleeping thing whether that be a stuffed animal, blanket, etc.
Pack "Activity Bags" For Each Child
These could include coloring books, crayons, markers (depending on the age of your child), books, trucks, etc. Let your kids help you pack these so they are excited about what's inside too.
Harness The Power of Alexa
When I'm running around packing, I constantly think 'Oh yea, I need to remember to pack...x, y, z.' The antidote to those thoughts is within the power of Alexa. Simply tell Alexa while you're packing what you need to remember. Walking up the stairs? "Hey Alexa, remind me in 10 minutes to pack my Air Pods." Alexa dings while you're walking out to the car... "Alexa, remind me again in 10 minutes." Alexa says, "OK, I'll remind you again in 10 minutes." Done.
Charge All Electronics The Night Before
This may include your own AirPods, head phones, iPads, Kindles, etc. P.S. Don't forget to pack the chargers themselves!
Download any movies, books, games to devices the day before. This ensures you download your content over your own Wi-Fi and aren't charged extra fees for downloading on the go. Then, when you hit the road, you, and your kids, are ready!
Pack a Snack Bag
Kids often get hungry shortly after starting a road trip, so keep snacks within easy reach. Make sure you pack a snack bag full of "on the go" snacks that can be passed around the car easily and safely. Choose snacks that won't pose choking hazards while the car is moving. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding hard candies, whole grapes, and popcorn for children under 4 during car rides.
Make a Mobile Trash Bag
Place a trash bag container (or at least a trash bag) inside the main portion of the car for all trash to go into. Many times, while the kids are buckled, the trash can go into one of two cupholders, and then the trash can be moved to the trash bag for easy removal when pumping gas or stopping to take a rest.
Pack a Training Potty If You Need One
If you have young children in potty training, a portable potty lets you pull over safely rather than searching for rest stops in unfamiliar areas.
Wipes are Multipurpose!
Baby wipes are good for sticky fingers, getting quick stains out, and more. Always make sure you have an extra set on hand.
Book your stay on the Top Beaches in the United States! Start your search now at https://www.resortrentals.us!
Once you've mastered the road trip, put those skills to use on a drive to the Outer Banks! Village Realty OBX offers family-friendly vacation rentals perfect for your next coastal adventure. Start planning at https://www.villagerealtyobx.com!
