Travelling with kids can be one of the most fun and exciting adventures you’ll ever undertake, especially with direct.tv installed right in your car. But, it can also be fraught with stress. A long car ride becomes even longer when cries of “I’m bored!” ring out from the back seat, and a plane ride with a fussy youngster is not a pleasant experience for anyone (parents, seatmates and flight crew included).
In order to minimize stress and avoid meltdowns while far from home, make sure that you pack these essential items and keep them easily accessible:
Toys
Toys can make or break a trip. Let kids select the toys they want to bring, within reason. Action figures and dolls are ideal – they can inspire hours of creative play without taking up too much room. Large, noisy and projectile-firing toys should be avoided.
Books
A good book can make the time fly by. For younger kids, bring coloring and activity books and make sure to pack crayons, pencils and markers.
Wet wipe
Wet wipes aren’t just for diapers! Keeping a package of wet wipes handy will save the day when you stop for dinner or at the hotel only to realize that the kids’ hands and faces are filthy. They are also invaluable on long road trips when showers are few and far between.
Outdoor Toys
For road trips, pack outdoor toys like Frisbees, footballs or bubbles. Rest areas are perfect for stretching legs.
Candy and Gum
When flying, be sure to bring along gum or hard candy. Chewing gum or sucking on candy will help young fliers remain comfortable when air pressure changes while the plane ascends and descends.