A trip with children cannot possibly go smoothly without snacks and treats. They are as important to a successful trip as gas and tires. When choosing snacks, it is important to pack items that are nutritious, not too messy and that the child likes.
Some good choices would be:
Crackers and cheese
Fruit and cereal bars
Oatmeal cookies
If a cooler will be brought along for the trip, pack string cheese or apples (depending on the age of the children).
Trail mix is usually a hit with young children. It is easy to make, fun to eat and is easy to clean up if it is spilled. This is something else that children can help make in advance of the upcoming trip.
To make “On the Road Trial Mix” mix equal parts:
Cereal (child’s favorite)
Raisins
Chocolate candies
Flavored crackers
Peanuts (again depending on the age of the child)
Place the items in a large container, shake and distribute into lidded bowls or zip lock sandwich bags for the trip.
Extra Outfits
Packing extra outfits is important, especially when traveling with younger children. Even a child that never has an accident could end up needing a new outfit. A child that does not like to get dirty will decide now is the time to change their ways. Always expect the unexpected when dealing with small children, take the time to pack an appropriate extra outfit.
Time to Play
Young children do not do well buckled up in a car and tempers tend to run high. If it is at all possible, it is highly recommended that an impromptu stop be made at a park or rest stop along the way. This will allow the children and the adults’ time to stretch, use up some energy and breathe fresh air. This does not have to take too much time; a half hour to 45 minutes is enough for most children.