James' World 2

Click the link below the picture

.

The ideal family road trip begins with two simple things: an open road and a full backseat. The direction the trip takes, however, is almost entirely up to planning. And sure, maybe you’ve thought of the essentials—the snacks, the toys, the fully-charged tablets—but there’s bound to be something you’ve missed.

That’s why we put together a complete checklist of everything to consider before leaving for your family vacation, including expert advice on packing smart, staying safe, keeping kids entertained, and setting road trip rules for a smooth journey.

1. Focus on Car Safety

Begin with a thorough inspection of your road trip car. Check the tires, mirrors, fluids, and lights to ensure everything is functioning properly. Tire pressure and tread depth affect your control over the car, your lights help other drivers see you, and properly adjusted mirrors make certain that you see them. Additionally, maintaining your fluid levels—like coolant, engine oil, and brake fluid— keeps your engine running smoothly throughout your trip.

For more information on car safety checks, view this guide by the Department of Motor Vehicles.

2. Stock Up on Supplies

Pack enough supplies to last the length of your trip, and research stores along the route in case you need to pick something up. When traveling with young kids, keep the most important supplies within arm’s reach.

“I make sure they have everything they need right next to them so they don’t need to get out of their seats,” says mother of two and long-time traveler Emma Scott-Child, who runs a website for parents about crafting, design, and kid-wrangling called Ladyland. “Each kid has a backpack with all their things in them, including a water bottle.”

Must-have supplies might include:

• A bathroom bag with essentials like diapers, wipes, sanitary pads, a portable potty, wet wipes, or a fold-out changing table
• A clean-up kit with your favorite cleaning supplies, including a non-toxic all-purpose spray, microfiber towels, and bleach wipes
• Lots of water to keep kids properly hydrated, which helps regulate their body temperature and aids in digestion1
• A car window shade to block the sun from beaming through the backseat windows (it also protects your little ones from any unnecessary sunburns)
• A small trash bag for waste
• Chargers with car adaptors
• Blankets, pillows, and warm coats
• Hand sanitizer
• Car sickness medicine if your family gets queasy
• Car seat organizers
• A sick bag if your child is prone to nausea, suggests Scott-Child

3. Get Enough Sleep and Stretch When Possible

Getting enough sleep is important for a successful drive, as it helps you stay alert and reduces the risk of an accident. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommends that adults aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night.2 “Sleep deprivation is associated with an increased risk of car accidents,” says Dr. Luster.

Moreover, stretching is crucial. Aim to stretch before the trip and during any breaks, as long drives can cause tension from sitting in place for extended periods. This can lead to muscle stiffness, reduced blood circulation, and unnecessary pressure on your joints.

.

PARENTS/ GETTY IMAGES

.

.

Click the link below for the article:

.

__________________________________________