If you’re like me, the thought of packing the kids into the car for a road trip brings equal parts excitement and sheer terror. But fear not! With a few tips and a healthy dose of humor, we can survive (and maybe even enjoy) the journey. Here’s how I’ve turned our chaotic car rides into a somewhat organized adventure—kind of!

1. Create the Ultimate Playlist

First things first, I’ve discovered the key to keeping my sanity on long drives: the ultimate road trip playlist! Think of it as a musical buffet. You’ve got your kid-approved tunes mixed with the classics that make me feel like Taylor Swift.. Just remember to keep the volume at a “reasonable” level—nobody wants to hear “Baby Shark” on repeat for three hours. That being said, throw a few of those type songs in the mix.

2. Prepare Snack Bags

Ah, snacks. The currency of road trips! I prepare snack bags like I’m packing for a week-long survival mission. Each kid gets roughly one snack per hour in the car. (Remember to make a bag for the trip back home also). Don’t give them all the snacks at once: ration them out in intervals. Just be warned: a few crumbs will inevitably end up in your hair, your seats, and possibly even the ceiling.

3. Set Up the Car the Night Before

Setting up the car the night before is crucial. It’s like a game of Tetris, but with booster seats and backpacks. This will help the next day go much more smoothly. On that note, pack the day before as well.

4. Ceiling Road Map

Here’s a fun idea: create a ceiling road map! Tape a long piece of duct tape across the ceiling and write down the towns and landmarks you’ll be passing on it in Sharpie. I aim for one an hour. Then, use a little paper car to “drive” along the route. It keeps the kids entertained and helps me feel like I’m winning at mom-ing. Seeing the forward progress is helpful to all of us.

5. Audio Books and Podcasts

Next up: audiobooks! They are the perfect distraction. I’ve found that a thrilling story can silence the backseat chaos for at least 30 minutes. Did you know that Spotify has audiobooks? I recently learned this. There are also ample storytelling podcasts for kids that are completely free! Some favorites are Bluey stories, Tiny Theologins, Super Great Kids Stories, and Nat Theo: Nature Lessons Rooted in the Bible.

6. Something New

Bring along something new—like a small toy or a magnetic game. I’m not saying you need to buy an expensive toy or a glitter bomb (although I wouldn’t judge). A simple sticker book or a new puzzle can work wonders. Just remember, once it’s opened, it will likely be scattered throughout the car by the time you reach your destination. A good resource for affordable new books in our town is Half-Priced books, but also check the Little Free Libraries around town.

7. Take Breaks

Don’t underestimate the power of breaks. Every couple of hours, we stop to stretch our legs and maybe let the kids run wild in a park. It’s a win-win: they burn off energy, and I get to enjoy a moment of peace —because it’s not just about the kids, right? Bonus tip: throw away trash and clean up a little at every stop.

8. Keep a Loose Schedule

I’ve learned to keep a loose schedule. It’s the art of flexibility! Sure, we have a destination, but detours happen. Sometimes you just have to embrace that random roadside attraction, like the world’s largest ball of twine. The kids will thank you, and you’ll have a story for the ages.

9. Car Potty

Let’s not forget the infamous car potty. Yes, it’s a thing! If you have little ones, consider a portable potty. Our favorite is the oxo brand potty. It’s a lifesaver for those “I-have-to-go-right-now” moments that strike when you’re miles from the nearest restroom. Trust me, you’ll feel like a superhero. Lets get into the nitty gritty: we use plastic groceries bags with an inside-out diaper in it as a liner.

10. Cozy Items

Finally, pack cozy items like pillows, blankets, and fuzzy socks. Nothing says “road trip” like snuggling under a blanket in a car seat. It’s like a mini-vacation…except you’re still stuck in traffic.