Are We There Yet?

Whether you’re packing up the kids to go and visit family or going on an exciting self-drive holiday, travelling with kids can be a handful.

Once you’ve decided on your destination, locked up the house, packed up the car, these useful tips will help beat the boredom and keep the peace on the road.
• In car entertainment
Take a range of games, story and music CDs and books with you to keep the kids entertained.
• Take regular breaks
Let the kids out of the car for toilet breaks as often as possible. It’s also a good time to stretch your legs.
• Drinks and snacks
Hungry and thirsty kids are grumpy and irritable. So make sure you take some snacks and drinks in the car to keep the hunger pains at bay.
• Be prepared
Take essential items like tissues with you in the car to clean up any little accidents.
• Travel in comfort
Take some blankets in the car in case the kids get cold. If it’s hot, try taking something that will help cool the kids down.
• Get a good night’s sleep
If you’re travelling during the day, try to make sure that everyone gets a good night’s sleep the night before you leave so that you’re all well rested for the trip.
• Driving through the night
If you can drive through the night with the kids sleeping comfortably in the back, it will make the trip go much quicker for them and eliminate the boredom factor.
• In tune
Play soft, melodious music for a calming effect on your kids. Of course, there’s nothing like a rowdy family singalong for fun but when it’s time to calm down, soft and slow will do the trick.
• Plan the quickest route
You can save travel time and avoid getting lost by carefully planning your route before you leave. It also pays to check the traffic news in case there are unexpected delays.
• Car care
Before you leave, get your car checked out. Check the oil level and tyre pressure and ensure everything is in good working order.