The holiday season is here, and that means it’s time for extended road trips! Whether you’re heading to Grandma’s house or going on a winter getaway, keeping everyone happy during long hours in the car can be tough. Here are 20 ways to survive—and even enjoy—a long road trip with your family this holiday season.
1. Plan Ahead (But Be Ready for Surprises)
The best road trips start with a good plan. Map out your route, book your hotels, and list possible stops for snacks and bathroom breaks. Make sure you download your map in case you lose service. But don’t be afraid to let some holiday magic lead you to unexpected adventures—sometimes those surprise stops make the best memories!
2. Get a Tune-Up
Nobody wants to spend Christmas Eve stuck on the side of the road. Get your car checked out before your trip. Make sure the oil, tires, and brakes are in good shape—nothing says “holiday cheer” like avoiding a breakdown.
3. Pack in Small Bags
Avoid digging through one giant suitcase to find your favorite pair of fuzzy socks. Pack smaller bags by activity: snacks in one, entertainment in another, and overnight essentials in a quick-access bag. A little organization goes a long way. And don’t forget to use packing cubes—they’re a lifesaver!
4. Download Entertainment Before You Go
Whether it’s a holiday playlist, a family-friendly podcast, or that movie you’ve been wanting to watch, download it all ahead of time. You never know when you’ll lose cell service, and the constant chants of “Are we there yet?” are easier to handle with something fun to listen to.
5. Pack Healthy Snacks (And Some Treats)
Snacks can be the difference between a peaceful ride and a meltdown. Pack healthy options like fruit, nuts, and granola bars to keep everyone’s energy up. But of course, a few holiday cookies are totally allowed—as well as local treats and delicacies wherever you stop. balance is key!
6. Take Regular Breaks
Get out, stretch, and for the love of the holidays, let the kids run around! Try to stop every two to three hours to keep everyone comfortable. Plus, it’s a great chance to take some cute roadside holiday pics.
7. Stay Comfortable
Comfort is super important when you’re stuck in the car for hours. Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures, and bring pillows and blankets for extra coziness. Happy passengers mean a happier road trip.
8. Pack a First-Aid Kit
Accidents happen, and a first-aid kit can be a lifesaver. Band-aids, Neosporin, pain relievers, and motion sickness tablets are a must. You’ll feel like the ultimate holiday hero when you can fix a small crisis.
9. Play Road Trip Games
Keep the holiday cheer alive with fun road trip games. Classics like “I Spy,” the license plate game, or some movie trivia can keep everyone entertained. Bonus points if you make the games holiday-themed!
10. Take Turns Driving
Sharing is caring—and that includes driving. Switch drivers every few hours to stay fresh and alert. This is kind of a no-brainer, since whoever isn’t driving can take a nap or help manage the backseat chaos.
11. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is important, even if it means more bathroom breaks. Bring reusable water bottles for everyone and refill them at stops. It’s better than dealing with crankiness from dehydration—trust us.
12. Make a Holiday Playlist
Music makes everything better, especially road trips. Put together a playlist of everyone’s favorite holiday songs and sing along. Even if Dad insists on playing “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” for the tenth time, just laugh along. It’s all part of the fun.
13. Bring a Portable Charger
Don’t skip this one!! Keep your devices charged with a portable charger. Between navigating, texting updates, and keeping the kids entertained, your phone will need it. A fully charged device helps everything run more smoothly.
14. Pack a “Just in Case” Bag
You never know when you’ll need an extra set of clothes, hand sanitizer, or wet wipes. Pack a “just in case” bag and keep it easy to reach. It’s the best way to be ready for unexpected messes.
15. Keep the Kids Busy
Happy kids mean a happy trip. Pack books, coloring supplies, or tablets with movies to keep them entertained. Bonus tip: save a few surprises for when boredom hits—a new toy or snack can work wonders!
16. Don’t Forget Comfort Items
Traveling can be tough for kids, especially during the holidays. Bring along their favorite stuffed animals, blankets, or other creature comforts. A little bit of home goes a long way on the road.
17. Be Spontaneous
All these plans will keep you safe and sane, but leave room for some holiday spontaneity. Stop at a quirky roadside attraction or try a local diner that looks interesting. The best holiday memories often come from unplanned moments.
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18. Stay Safe
Safety comes first! Always wear your seatbelt, follow speed limits, and avoid distractions. Don’t mess with the playlist if you’re driving. If you feel tired, switch drivers or take a break. Getting there safely is the best gift you can give your family.
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19. Stay Positive
Road trips come with unexpected twists—traffic, wrong turns, and we’re willing to bet at least some arguing. But keeping a positive attitude makes all the difference. Laugh off the small stuff and remember you’re all in this together—that’s what the holidays are all about.
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20. Capture the Memories
Don’t forget to take pictures! Documenting your holiday road trip means you’ll have something to look back on for years to come. Whether it’s a silly selfie or a beautiful sunset, these memories are the best souvenirs. Pro tip: Bring a camera that’s not attached to your phone.
A holiday road trip with your family can be one of the best experiences—as long as you’re prepared. Follow these tips, keep your spirits high, and enjoy the journey. Safe travels and happy holidays!
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