How to Prepare for a Last Minute Family Road Trip

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It’s summer, time to clear the schedule and indulge in a last minute family road trip. That carefree attitude basking in the bright sunshine and the warm air leaves daydreams dancing in our minds. You crunched the budget and didn’t see a family vacation in the future, but with these ideas, get the car packed and take a last minute road trip.

how to prepare for a last minute road trip

The Two Essentials of a Road Trip:

There are two essentials to a road trip: food and entertainment. Bring a cooler filled with snacks and drinks to keep the family fed and happy will prevent you from spending unnecessarily with drive-thru and convenience store trips. Keep everyone content during the long stretches and if the budget allows, beef jerky and a drive-thru dinner along the way is always  fun.

Long trips on the road can get tiresome quickly, especially for kids. Review these tips on keeping kids amused while traveling and be sure to bring options to keep them occupied between stops. Older children may enjoy trivia, word games, crossword puzzles. The family can listen to books on tape. A DVD player is a great way to pass the time.

Lodging for the Road Trip:

Let’s face it, last minute road trips generally don’t offer much time to reserve hotel rooms for the nights. Light camping gear may be an option for the road. It opens many options where you can sleep and will save money. It also offers views of the country not confined to city limits.

You don’t have to be an athlete to throw in a couple pieces of athletic equipment to pass the time during stops and help everyone expend energy. A game of soccer or Frisbee at a rest stop or park is a good break from the road. It’s also a great way to occupy the family at a campsite.

Pack clothes that will keep everyone comfortable for any summer weather you might experience and you’re ready to go.

There’s a big country out there waiting for you to discover. Summer just started. Whether you’re planning a last minute road trip to the other side of your county or across the country, with these packing ideas, you’ll be ready by tomorrow.