How to Keep Siblings Happy on a Road Trip

A good road trip can create lifelong family memories. Whether your children are toddlers or teenagers, the experience of a road trip is something they will never forget. To ensure that your trip is a fantastic experience for the whole family, you must plan, pack, take lots of pictures--and don't forget to enjoy the ride.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Snacks
• Movies
• Drinks
• Games
• Pillows
• Blankets
• Music

1. Decide where you are going and how many hours it is feasible to drive each day.
2. Allow each sibling to bring a backpack or bag in the car that has games, books or toys tailored to their individual interests.
3. Pack one bag with games, CDs or movies to enjoy as a family. If your children enjoy playing board games together, check to see if travel versions of their favorites are available. For toddlers, be sure to bring coloring books and crayons. Older siblings might enjoy a notepad and pens for hangman or tic-tac-toe.
4. Plan in advance where to stop for meal breaks. If you are purchasing your meals, consider stopping somewhere that allows physical activities so your kids can run off pent-up energy. If possible, plan picnics in parks with lots of room to run and play.
5. Prevent sibling squabbles by keeping them well-fed and well-rested. If siblings get cranky, consider changing seating arrangements or bring extra pillows to create some separation.
6. Consider starting your road trip very early in the morning or late at night when your kids are likely to be sleepy. Peace and quiet in the car is a good way to ease into the stress of a road trip.

Tips & Warnings

• Be flexible and realize that the best part about a road trip is the ability to be spontaneous.
• Don't let a flat tire take all the air out of your trip. Get your car serviced by a professional mechanic before you go to make sure it is in top condition.