The Best Holiday Road Travel Tips

Reduce stress and boost the fun when driving for the holidays.

It’s that time of year again. November to January, people are cross navigating the US in planes, trains, and automobiles. If you’re planning to drive to see Great Aunt Lisa or Grandma and Grandpa this holiday season, here are 6 travel tips that will help the drive go smoothly. 

1. Snacks – You will have to stop occasionally to use restroom facilities, but you don’t have to buy food each time. Stock up a snack box with go-to goodies and healthy, protein packed options like pretzels, nuts, beef jerky, granola bars, apples, etc. Be sure to include a few treats as well—Twizzlers, Tootsie Pops, mini-candy bars, etc., you get the idea!

2. Drinks – As noted in Tip 1, you don’t want to spend money every time you stop along the way. Pack a cooler with water, soda, juice, and foods that need to stay cold like yogurt. Staying hydrated will help everyone feel at their best when you arrive. 

3. Music – If you have a 4-hour trip or longer, music can make a world of difference. Try creating a fun, new playlist for your car ride. 

4. Devices – Like it or not, long trips can get boring quickly. After you’ve exhausted go-to car games like 20 questions, picture books, or magic art boards, make your vehicle a safe space for kids to use a tablet, portable DVD player, or iPad for entertainment. 

5. Organize – Be thoughtful about where you store bags, suitcases, coolers, snack boxes, extra blankets, and gifts. Think through what you will need first—and pack your vehicle with that in mind. 

6. Extra stuff – If you’re traveling to a place with a cold climate, you might want to pack a travel blanket and pillow for comfort. Don’t forget your sunglasses and always keep hand sanitizer in your glove box. 

From our family to yours, we wish you all a happy, safe, and joy-filled holiday season.