Safe and comfortable travels: Tips for family road trips

Whether you are planning a road trip to see family or heading on a staycation, making sure your car is as safe and comfortable as possible should be a priority.  

It can be tough keeping kids happy on the road, but with these tips, your journey will hopefully be as smooth as possible.  

Tyre health: Safety starts here 

Before you set off on any journey, but especially a long-distance one, you should check your car tyres are up to standard. Make sure the tyre pressure and tread depth meet the requirements of the government and the manufacturer – you can find this information in your car documentation. 

If you notice that the wear on your tyres is looking ropey, book in to get them replaced. You can save time by buying tyres online to streamline your appointment.  

Car maintenance simplified for busy parents 

There are some other checks you should do in the days before your journey too. Check the various fluid levels in your car to make sure they are topped up. This includes oil levels and wiper fluids in the event of bad weather.

Make sure your lights are working properly too. You don’t want to be stuck on the motorway, waiting for help with your kids in the car! You could time your yearly service appointment just before you travel to confirm your car is safe and roadworthy. For added convenience, searching for “car service near me” can help you find local providers to ensure your vehicle is in top condition before hitting the road.

Entertainment on the go: Keeping kids happy 

While games like I Spy and the Licence Plate Game are great fun for a while, these don’t quite cut it for a multi-hour trip. Depending on the ages of your kids, they may be able to entertain themselves, but you should bring activities just in case.  

Audiobooks with headphones are a good idea if you have readers who find books make them travel sick – plus, headphones ensure everyone’s peace! You can also download some shows onto a tablet for little ones. Invest in some tablet holders that attach to the headrest in front to prevent little hands from pressing buttons they shouldn’t.  

Packing smart: Save space, stay organised 

Travelling as a family comes with a lot of luggage, especially if you have really little ones. You may want to invest in a rooftop box to add some space to your car. You could, for example, keep all beach-related items in it so you don’t even have to unpack it! 

Vacuum packing bags are a game-changer when you have lots of clothes to bring. They work wonders for bulky items such as ski jackets or thick winter jumpers. Just be sure to confirm your accommodation has a way of re-sealing them when you are ready to leave again.  

An emergency kit should be a permanent fixture in your car. Include items such as snacks, water, chargers and a first-aid kit for emergencies.  

Planning pit stops for family comfort  

Pit stops are essential for stretching legs and burning off energy for the next leg of the journey. When planning your route, look at local places to stop along the way. 

Service stations are incredibly practical for adults and car-related things, but kids may find them a bit boring. Instead, look for local parks, picnic spots and even playgrounds for them to enjoy before you continue.