Traveling with Kids During the Holidays #KiaHolidays

Content and/or other value provided by our partner, Kia Motors

I have 3 young boys ranging from the ages of four to nine years old.  Traveling for the holidays can be a bit of a challenge at times, especially on a very long road trip.  So how do parents with young kids travel?  Here are a few helpful hints I’ve come up with to ensure you have a happy holiday road trip!

MUST-HAVE ITEMS:

– iPad or iPhone with a charger
– Snacks and water
– Blanket
– Favorite Toy
– A gift for along the way
– Music
– Camera
– Books
– Games
– Songs
– Change of Clothes
– Ziploc Storage Bag

Listed above are some of the most important items I make sure we have in the car for my boys when going on a long road trip, especially during the holidays.  Yes, I have to admit that when it comes to road trips, the iPads and iPhones are awesome!  However, we wait until we’ve driven a little ways before breaking them out.  I also make sure they are fully charged before entering the car.

Snacks and water are another big must-have item.  I pack snacks such as Cheez-its, Graham Crackers, Goldfish, Pretzels, Grapes, Bananas, and String Cheese.  I like to choose snacks and drinks that won’t stain if spilled.  If you have water bottles in the car, be sure to label them with names using a Magic Marker.

Items that will help keep your child riding in comfort on a long road trip include a blanket, favorite toy, and maybe even a gift for along the way.  Wrap the gift up and wait for a little while to give it to your child.  You can build the excitement in your child for the upcoming event by talking about who you are going to visit, where you are going, or what you are going to be doing.   Stories, games and songs are also more great ways to help the traveling time go quickly – plus you’ll have fun!  Check out the song below that my boys made up in the car on a road trip.

One of my biggest must-have items are a change of clothes and a Ziploc Storage Bag.  A change of clothes has come in handy so many times!  Whether your child spills a drink, has an accident, or just isn’t comfortable, a change of clothes will come in handy.  For the parent with a child who suddenly feels like throwing up, you’ll find that a Ziploc Storage Bag comes in VERY handy.  Believe me, you don’t want to go on a long trip without one!

What are your tips for traveling with children for the holidays?  Do you have any must-have items on your holiday road trips?  Do you play any games or sing songs on your road trips?  We’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas!

Content and/or other value provided by our partner, Kia Motors

 This is a sponsored post from our friends at Kia.  All opinions expressed in this post are 100% mine.