You may not plan a road trip for the sake of going on a road trip, but many outdoor activities require a bit of a drive. Whether you’re taking your kids hunting or hiking, you’ll likely need to drive for a while to get outside the city.
Family road trips are great ways to spend quality time with your loved ones. Here are a few important things to know, whether this is your first trip or your fifth.
Your Kids May Get Bored
Kids—especially young ones—may get bored and restless at some point. Keeping games and snacks on hand can help. Encourage your kids to pack their own bags with whatever they need to stay entertained. Books, handheld games, and music players are all great options. Double-check that they’ve packed the necessary chargers for any devices, especially if they have phones. If your vehicle has a DVD player, have them pick out some movies to watch during the drive.
Even after all this, they may still get restless. Plan to stop every few hours for bathroom breaks so that your kids can run around and stretch their legs.
Your Vehicle May Get Dirty
This may be frustrating to hear, especially if you’re one of those guys who scrubs down his vehicle before a road trip. At the very least, the exterior will get dirty with dust from the road, water stains from the rain, and splatters from bugs hitting your windshield. But if your family will be eating in the vehicle, keep in mind that there’s a chance your kids will spill snacks or drinks.
Avoid messes by limiting the snacks to options that are easy to clean up. With young kids, water is probably the best bet instead of soda or juice. And if you’re not in a rush, eat meals outside—either in a park or restaurant. Your family members will appreciate the time to stretch their legs!
Plan to clean your vehicle when you get back. After all, regular cleaning is a great way to reduce wear and tear on your vehicle’s interior.
You Should Prioritize Security
You may need to bring your gun or rifle with you, either for security purposes or if you are planning to go hunting at your destination. It is important to take precautions when bringing your rifle with kids, especially if they are young. Secure your rifle by using a backpack with a built-in rifle compartment. It should be padded and always zipped or locked if not in use. Choose the specific range backpack that could fit your rifle and its accessories. It should allow you to easily access your rifle and tuck it away safely when your children are near you.
You’re Going To Have a Great Time!
Keep this one in mind when you start getting stressed. You’re in the process of making great memories. These are the times your kids will remember. Try not to sour the trip by letting stress get the better of you.
Enjoy this quality time with your family. Be patient. It’s important to know that the trip doesn’t have to be perfect. What’s important about family road trips is that you’re together. Enjoy the silly road games with your kids and look forward to the quiet hours with your partner after the kids fall asleep in the back.
