Traveling: Long Trips

Aired on Lifetime Television
May 18 and June 29, 2008
Show 513

A lengthy car trip at today's gas prices is stressful enough…now add a couple kids, family pets, a car load of luggage, and a traffic jam to the mix and you've got a long ride ahead of you. But if you plan ahead, and pack smart, that endless car ride might actually be...fun. Before you hit the road, do a little internet research into roadside hotels and stops along the way. Only forty percent of hotels and motels allow pets according to a recent survey. So make sure there's a place for you and the family dog to sleep. People take vacations, accidents and messes don't, so plan for all kinds of emergencies. From a minor soda spill in the backseat to a small paper cut, adding cleaning wipes and a first aid kit to the packing list is a good idea, and make sure they can be easily reached. And if you're traveling with baby, leave the big bottles of lotions and creams at home -- pack light with travel sized bottles. Once you're on the road, it's only a matter of time before you hear those three magic words: "Mom we're bored!" Car games or iPods will keep your kids occupied, but don't overdo it. Your kids should each bring two or three of their favorite items. And don't forget the extra batteries or car chargers. Napping is also a way for your kids to pass the time -- and for you to get a few quiet moments. If your younger children have a scheduled nap time, leave one hour before. Your kids will entertain themselves for awhile and then drift off to sleep. So plan ahead, pack smart and you'll be there before you know it.