Make a talking diary – Traveling with kids tip

by Gadling Staff on

Give your children the task of collecting memories.

A fun way to do this is to set your child up with an audio recorder: the old cassette version can be found in second hand shops for only a few dollars. Bring lots of blank tapes and a set of headphones.

Articulating on tape everything they are noticing keeps them engaged in even the most mundane travel activities. Sightseeing takes an interesting turn when the child is encouraged to capture the moment. Preschoolers through elementary school age children love this — and so do worn out parents.

Bonus: having your child’s young voice on tape is a priceless treasure.

Start at night – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

With any road trip longer than 12 hours, consider beginning the drive at night. This is especially true if you’re traveling with young children.

The driver should, of course, sleep several hours before leaving, then begin the trip at the children’s bedtime. By driving while the children are asleep, you won’t need to take as many potty breaks, and the parents can enjoy a good portion of the ride without having to listen to children’s movies and songs.

Bonus: you’ll arrive at your destination when it’s daytime, so you won’t feel like a whole day has been wasted in the car.