Here are our top 15 simple activities and tips to survive long journeys with kids.

1. Questions

Children love to ask a lot of questions but now it is time to change the roles! Go beyond basic questions like “How are you?” and ask more complex questions, getting your kids talking and knowing them better.  For example, “What makes you happy?” or “Which character is your favourite one and what makes him so special?”. These questions are great for awakening your child's imagination and creativity

2. A road trip playlist

While travelling with kids, a jolly old singsong is always helpful. Make a playlist of their favourite songs or perhaps the soundtrack of their favourite movies, and sing along. 

3. An imaginary game of Hide and Seek

In this game, your kids choose a spot inside your house to hide and pretend to be there. They can picture hiding in any room of the house, regardless of its size. The other passengers in the car ask open-ended questions to be answered with a simple 'Yes' or 'No.' When someone correctly identifies the fictitious hiding spot, the game is over and they must begin again.

4. Lego

It's a universal pastime enjoyed by practically every child on the planet. If your kids are bored, a Lego set will undoubtedly cheer them up. There are also Lego kits that come with magnetic attachments, which are ideal for use when travelling with kids.

5. Printable maps

Exploring maps, whether real maps or navigation software on your devices, is always entertaining. Let's go old school and get a map printout from your starting point to your final destination. Mark the highways and other landmarks along the journey to your destination, and add intriguing tidbits to make your trips with kidsmuch more interesting.

6. Colouring books

We've all had this with our kids at one point or another, and for some, it's still one of their favourite pastimes. Purchase colouring books for your children so that they can enjoy colouring their favourite cartoon characters. It is always preferable to give your children colouring pencils rather than markers or sketch pens, as these may create stains in your vehicle.

7. Podcast player

Yes, the same item that keeps you occupied on your morning commute will keep the whole family occupied on your road trip. There are several fantastic podcasts for kids, ranging from humorous to thought-provoking. You can also try some of the teen podcasts if your child is a little older.

8. A game of Mad Libs

Mad Libs is a popular game among children, and playing these in the car is indeed a fun activity for the whole family. That's one of our popular activities to do with the children on a long journey to pass the time. Everyone may have a good time and chuckle by completing out several of these crazy stories.

9. Grab an iPad

Although an iPad or tablet filled with games and movies may appear to be a robust approach, it can be really useful for quite a time. It doesn't have to be antisocial, either: several family-friendly apps are available for download. Also, headset splitters have become a good solution to avoid "it's my turn" disputes when sharing headphones. 

10. Grab lunch box snacks

When travelling with kids, food is your best friend. Keep a variety of food available in case the inevitable "I'm hungry" declaration occurs. Sugary foods may cause restlessness, so sliced or dried fruit, sandwiches, and other healthy snacks are appropriate. However, if letting your child eat a bar or even a packet of crisps gives them comfort and happiness for a short period of time, let them do it.

11. Travel surprise bag

Kids will enjoy discovering a bag loaded with entertaining items to keep them occupied while travelling. To hold all of your surprises, make or buy a fabric bag. A drawstring bag is perfect since it will keep the delicacies hidden until the bag is opened. Gather items as you see them and place them in the bag so it is ready to use when you need them.

12. Fun with windows

Here's a fun concept that your kids will enjoy on a road trip: Offer them window cling kits and washable markers, and let them go crazy on their car windows, of course, while safely strapped in their seats. They'll have a blast creating their masterpieces, and if you keep a cotton cloth in the back seat, they'll be able to wipe away their work and start over.

13. Pack wipes and toilet paper

When travelling with little children, it might be difficult to wait for the next rest stop or gas station. Having toilet paper on hand is always useful if you need to make an emergency pit stop on the side of the road. When ontrips with kids, wet wipes are also an excellent idea for sticky hands or runny noses which need to be cleaned up.

14. Overnight travelling is better

A happy child is one who is sleeping. Start your journey in the afternoon/evening, if possible, after the children have been playing around all day. Continue driving for a good few hours and then take a quick stop for some food. Change your kids into their pyjamas using the restaurant's facilities and put them back in the car.

15. Stay calm

We know it's easier said than done, but being calm on a long journey with little children can be really beneficial. Allow yourself to channel your inner child and have some fun with your children. Enjoy these moments as much as possible!

Summary

When taking a long ride with children, touring activities entertaining kids are crucial. It will not only keep the kids interested and occupied, but it will also make the travel memorable and enjoyable! Whether your children are babies, school-aged children, or teenagers, you'll find plenty to cheer them up with our tips to survive long journeys with kids!