We’ve taken our fair share of family road trips — some smoother than others! Over time, I’ve picked up a handful of small habits and systems that make the journey easier (and actually enjoyable). Sharing them here in case you’re hitting the road with your crew soon.
1. Pack a Container of Snacks
A big plastic bin in the middle of the car keeps everyone happy. I like to fill it with grab-and-go options so the kids can reach in themselves. Think pretzels, crackers, fruit strips, and baby-friendly snacks like pouches and Cheerios in Lalo snack cups.
2. Grab Food to Go Before You Leave
We’ve learned the hard way that pulling out of the driveway with hungry kids is a recipe for disaster. Now we order Chipotle ahead and swing by to pick it up as soon as we hit the road. Everyone eats, no one is cranky, and the car gets off to a smooth start.
3. Time It Around Naps and Meals
We always try to leave right after a big meal or around the baby’s nap — it makes the first stretch of driving so much easier. A happy, full (or sleeping) baby sets the tone for the whole car.
4. Don’t Forget Entertainment
For the big kids, we brought along games like Spot It, Uno, madibs and this book that the kids howled over the entire trip. We also downloaded the Harry Potter series on Audible — listening together made the drive feel like a shared adventure. For the baby, a few favorite toys (and the big kids keeping him entertained!) kept him content.
5. Stay Organized with Packing Cubes + the Hulken
Each kid gets two packing cubes, and then everything goes into a Hulken bag. It keeps clothes neat, makes loading and unloading simple, and when we got home, I tossed all the dirty laundry into the Hulken and rolled it straight to the laundry room. It’s the one system that keeps us sane on the road.
6. Keep the Car Comfortable
A little setup goes a long way. Everyone has their own water bottle within reach, we keep an easy spot for trash, and I stash an ice pack to keep Once Upon a Farm pouches cool.
7. Pack Less for Ease
I’ve learned to pack less for road trips — it makes the car feel less crowded, and honestly, no one needs five outfit changes a day.
8. Plan for Baby Needs
Pouches, toys, and extra bibs always live within arm’s reach. I’ve also started keeping a “baby kit” in the car (diapers, wipes, burp cloths) so I’m not digging through bags on the side of the road.
9. Build in Breaks
Even if it takes a little longer, letting the kids stretch, run around, or grab an ice cream cone is worth it. Everyone gets back in the car happier.
10. Make It Fun
Road trips are a lot of togetherness, but they can also be some of the best memories. We laugh, play games, listen to stories, and share snacks — and those little moments become the highlight of the trip.
