It seems highly appropriate that I publish this guest-post on my blog, as right at this moment in time, Mr. TBaM is shoving our luggage into the boot of the car as we head off to Butlin's for a short break! In this stress-free family car travel advertorial, Isabelle from Passsmart.com (the UK service for learner drivers) presents a variety of ideas to minimise the anxiety of getting there. I'm off to pack some fruit and ditch the chocolate!
Long car journeys can be stressful at the best of times, but when you've got the children in the back and they're asking "Are we nearly there yet?" every half a mile, it doesn't get any easier! In this article we're going to take a look at some tips to keep the children happy and occupied in the car, and, no matter how many little ones you've got to keep entertained, it's sure to help make the ride a little smoother.
Classic travel games
Remember the travel games you used to pay as a child? Well, they work just as well these days! Classic travel games like the 'Number Plate Game' (where you make up sentences using number plate letters) and 'I Spy' are all fantastic ways to make the journey pass a little quicker. Best of all, they won't cost you a thing!
Don't forget to pack the fun stuff
Make sure you've packed some games and activities which will allow you to get some quiet time in. Whilst games like I Spy are great for keeping the children entertained in the car, they're also pretty noisy! Taking some activity books or a portable games console will help you get a bit of quiet time during the journey, and will also make sure you're able to keep your concentration on the road instead of what's going on in the back.
Be careful with the sweet treats
We all know the best part of a long car journey is having a big bag of sweets to munch your way through, but children, sweets and sitting still don't really mix. Instead of bringing sweets and chocolates for the journey, pack some healthy snacks like trail mix, raisins and fruit salad. OK, they'll probably be less enthusiastic about their in-car snacks, but at least you won't have to deal with a sugar high mid-journey.
You don't have to cut out the sweet things completely, though. If you do let them have a few treats, make sure it's just before you stop off for lunch or a toilet break, to ensure they have some time to burn the excess energy off before they get back in the car.
Stretch your legs
It's important that you take plenty of breaks when going on a long car trip. Not only will the children need a chance to run around, but you'll also need a break from being behind the wheel. Take plenty of chances to stop off and refuel (the car and you!), because although it may take you a little longer to get there, you won't arrive feeling cramped and grumpy!
Take a comfy change of clothes
We all know children can get through clean clothes at an alarming rate, so make sure you pack some easily-accessible spares. It's also a good idea to pack a fresh pair of pyjamas to make things a little comfier when it comes to nap time too.
It's essential to make sure the little ones are comfy as well as entertained, because sitting uncomfortably for that amount of time can make even the most grown up of us irritable!
Sensible tips