Long journeys with young children require careful planning to ensure safety, comfort and minimal stress for everyone. Follow this comprehensive guide to make your trip as smooth as possible.
Pre-Journey Preparation
Vehicle Checks
- Confirm your vehicle is serviced and roadworthy
- Check tyre pressure and condition (including spare)
- Ensure all fluids are at correct levels
- Test all lights are working properly
- Verify your breakdown cover is current
Child Safety
- Properly fitted, age-appropriate car seats
- Seats correctly installed using ISOFIX or seat belts
- Harness straps snug with no twists
- Chest clip at armpit level
- Remove bulky clothing that may affect harness fit
Comfort Items
- Blankets and travel pillows
- Sun shades for windows
- Change of clothes for each child
- Plastic bags for rubbish/motion sickness
- Favorite comfort toys or blankets
During the Journey
Planning Your Route
- Schedule Regular Breaks: Plan to stop every 2 hours or more frequently with infants/toddlers.
- Identify Service Stations: Note locations with good facilities and play areas.
- Consider Travel Times: Driving during nap times or at night may help children sleep.
- Have Alternative Routes: In case of traffic delays or closures.
Entertainment Strategies
For Younger Children
- Interactive picture books
- Soft toys that attach to car seats
- Simple travel games like "I Spy"
- Child-friendly music or audiobooks
For Older Children
- Tablets with pre-downloaded content
- Travel versions of board games
- Journey diaries or activity books
- Headphones for personal devices
Family Activities
- Counting games (different coloured cars, animals)
- Alphabet games (spot items from A-Z)
- Travel bingo with road signs/landmarks
- Audio stories the whole family can enjoy
Safety Considerations
Essential Safety Tips
- Never leave children unattended in the vehicle
- Keep doors locked with child safety locks engaged
- Store heavy/loose items securely to prevent movement
- Have first aid kit and necessary medications accessible
- Keep hydrated but limit drinks to reduce toilet stops
- Use sun protection even when in the car
Dealing with Motion Sickness
- Prevention: Avoid heavy meals before travel, use acupressure bands if needed.
- Positioning: Have child look at distant horizons rather than books/screens.
- Ventilation: Keep fresh air circulating in the vehicle.
- Preparation: Have sick bags, wipes and change of clothes easily accessible.
- Medication: Consult your GP about travel sickness remedies if needed.
Emergency Preparedness
Essential Emergency Kit
- First aid kit with child-appropriate items
- Torch with extra batteries
- Reflective warning triangle and hi-vis vest
- Basic tool kit and jump leads
- Portable phone charger
Child-Specific Items
- Spare nappies/pull-ups if applicable
- Baby wipes and hand sanitiser
- Non-perishable snacks and drinks
- Comfort items for stressful situations
- Copies of important medical information
Documentation
- Vehicle insurance and breakdown details
- List of emergency contacts
- Copies of any medical/prescription information
- Travel insurance documents if applicable
- Map or printed directions as backup