Five Tips for Surviving a Holiday Road Trip
With the holidays coming and going, everyone knows there's going to be that one road trip. Just recently I went on a road trip to Tucson, AZ, not much of a drive from El Paso, just four meaningless hours on the ol’ I-10. However, when you have a curious three year old, a 21 year old man-kid and three other in-laws in the car, pre-packing is a definite MUST!
I'm an organized freak, literally. Everything in my closet (and my daughter’s) is color coordinated by sleeve length and my husbands shirts are alphabetized (they're all black band t-shirts). So when it came to packing for the three of us can you guess who packed? I've only been on a few road trips, but I have learned the smaller the bag the better! Therefore, using a packing strategy makes everything easier.
Tip 1:
Clothing. When it comes to clothing, take the time to sort out what will be worn first, that way you can just reach into your bag without making a mess. I've learned that making a cute bundle helps with the space. All you have to do is get the shirt, and place everything that will go with that outfit in it and roll the shirt up! It's super easy and helps with a just grab and go situation. However, if you're like me and are very indecisive with your clothing, always pack three extra shirts. (I didn't do this on my past road trip and ended up risking my life on Black Friday to buy two more shirts for the last two days!)
Tip 2:
Technology/Electronics. Do I really need to say more? For the love of God and for the sake of your sanity, make sure you ALWAYS charge your items 100% before leaving. Especially if there are children. You do NOT want to be sitting there with a child yelling, “Are we there yet,” or “Mom, mom, mom...I'm bored. Can we get out.” It will test your sanity to the core. So please, download some games and some movies onto that iWhatever and save yourself. Another thing to remember is to take a car charger. Especially for you teens, who like to pretend you are in a music video, looking out the window all deep and contemplating what life is. TAKE ONE. As a kid, I did this and as a grown up, I still do this! (Only because I'm not driving and my music taste is terrible) I found a very useful thing to have is a charger that is both a wall and car charger. You can find it at your local Walgreens or Wal Mart. It's super inexpensive and VERY handy. Also, it'll save you from having to constantly switch the wire between bases.
Tip 3:
Food. I love food. It's my life. If I could and there was no consequence, I'd eat all day. However, you don't want to make a mess! So invest in some really cool infomercial cups! There are some where you put the drink in the bottom part and there's a compartment at the top where you can put a snack. It's great for EVERYONE, not just kids. If you can't find one, at least invest in a lunchbox or designate a specific beach bag. And just pack that thing full! But be real, and take a trash bag. Don't mess with Texas, and the other states you are going to, by littering.
Tip 4:
Potty breaks! Being a girl, you can't really just pull over on the side of the road to pee!. Unless you have one of those pee cups for girls, then by all means go for it! I remember when I was a kid I had a panic attack because I had to pee so bad once we were on the road. We were in the middle of nowhere and I was there crying and my mom yelling at me that I should've gone before we left. So save your kids and yourself the panic attack and definitely go pee before. Also, my family members found it was a great idea to buy pull ups for the younger kids (3 and under). That way if you can't find a place in time the kids will be somewhat set!
Tip 5:
Finally, make sure to take a pillow. I guarantee you, unless you're driving, that you'll need it. The car window is so uncomfortable, so please don't take the risk of going over a bump and smacking your face on the window. It's a VERY rude awakening. If you don't want to take a pillow, there's also a weird neck pillow that you can get. I personally don't think they are comfortable, but a lot of travelers have them!
Lastly, I just want to say enjoy the road trip! Look up little games you can play with your friends or family, don't be a mr./ms. grumpy gills. It just ruins the fun of the trip. Always roll the window down if you're going to let one rip, keep some extra cash for when you make pit stops, and enjoy the sites. Road trips are a bonding experience that will drive you crazy! But hey it's your family and that's what they are there for!
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