Let’s start with the basics. You’ll want to make sure you’ve packed:
✅ Must-Haves:

• Wipes (even if your kids are long out of diapers)
• First aid kit (Band-Aids, children’s Tylenol, motion sickness meds)
• Sunscreen and bug spray (even for pit stops)
• Blankets and pillows for backseat napping
• Headphones or kid-friendly earbuds
• Chargers and portable battery banks

🎁 Bonus Items You’ll Be Glad You Brought:

• Extra trash bags (for snack wrappers, wet clothes, mystery goo)
• Window clings or reusable sticker books
• A travel potty (for toddlers or emergency stops in remote areas)
• A surprise bag with new small toys or coloring books

Let’s face it—there are only so many times you can listen to The Wheels on the Bus. A mix of activities will keep everyone entertained and help avoid screen fatigue.

Screen-Free Ideas:

• Audiobooks or kids' podcasts (try Circle Round or Brains On!)
• Road trip bingo (print out themed cards before you go)
• “Would You Rather” questions
• Magnetic travel games or drawing boards
• Create-a-story games (“Once upon a time, in a car just like ours…”)

When Screens Are Needed:

No shame! Download a few favorite movies or shows ahead of time. Just be sure you’ve got headphones and a mount or stand to avoid the “it keeps falling!” drama.

Ask any seasoned parent—snacks are everything on a road trip. A well-timed snack can prevent a meltdown, help pass the time, and keep blood sugar levels (and moods) stable.

Aim for minimally messy, nutrient-dense snacks that kids can eat easily in the car. A few favorites:

• Squeeze pouches (fruit or veggie blends)
• Trail mix (age-appropriate, nut-free if needed)
• Whole grain crackers with cheese
• Skout Organic Kids Snack Bars — These are a road trip MVP. They’re made with just a handful of real-food ingredients, and they’re crumb-free, mess-free, and kid-approved. No sticky fingers or sugar crashes—just clean, balanced fuel for the ride.

Keep everything organized in a snack bin within arm’s reach, and pre-portion items in reusable snack bags or small containers.

Kids need regular breaks to run, move, and get their wiggles out. Try planning pit stops every 2–3 hours, and make them fun. Look for:

• Local parks or playgrounds
• Roadside attractions (giant dinosaurs, anyone?)
• Scenic rest areas for a picnic lunch

Even just 15 minutes to stretch can make a world of difference.

• Start Early: Hit the road while it’s still quiet. Kids may even snooze the first stretch of the drive.
• Pack a “Just in Case” Bag: Keep one small bag accessible with a change of clothes for each kid, a few extra diapers if needed, and a lightweight jacket.
• Let Them Help: Involve kids in the travel process! Give them their own mini backpack with toys, books, or activities.
• Set Expectations: Talk through the plan before you leave—how long you’ll be in the car, when you’ll stop, and how they can help make it a great trip.

Road trips with kids can be unpredictable, messy, and loud—but they’re also magical. With the right prep (and a car stocked with snacks, activities, and good vibes), you can turn even the longest drive into an adventure your family will remember forever.

So load up the car, cue the playlist, and don’t forget the Skout Bars—here’s to a summer full of detours, dance parties, and destination discoveries.

Happy National Road Trip Day!