As parents, we are always looking for different ways to make our lives a little easier. We all know traveling with kids can be a nightmare.
Here are some of the many things I have learned on my crazy adventures being a chauffeur for my family.
Use a PLASTIC bucket for toys!
Not only does this keep the kids toys contained but doubles as a puke bucket in a bind!
Unfortunately, I have dumped the toys out in a hurry and used this several times especially when traveling longer distances with the kids
Always keep a first aid kit in your car!
I add items I know I will use a ton, such as ointment and band-aids!
Diaper/Overnight Bag!
My kids are 5 and 10 and I still keep an overnight bag for them.
Crazy I know, my husband also thinks I am nuts!
Not only is the fantastic for emergencies, but it is also great for last min sleep overs and trips. I love knowing that I can hop in my car and have a couple days of clothes, toothbrush and a swimsuit for my kids!
Here are some examples of the things I keep in mine
- Clothes (warm weather, cold weather, socks, underwear and pj’s)
- Baby wipes
- Flashlight and Extra Batteries
- Hair ties
- Bathing Suits
- Medicines (Children’s Tylenol and Ibuprofen)
- Toothbrush
Carry at least one large trash bag!
Wet snow gear and life jackets wont fit in a grocery bag.
Grocery Bags!
Smaller bags help contain wet clothes, trash and all things kids.
Suckers!
Of course this one varies greatly upon the age of your kids, but for long drives etc. having suckers may just save your sanity!
Keep an extra charger and a set of head phones for any electronics in the car.
Having these items live in the car ensures that you will always have them when traveling
Hand sanitizer
because you just never know.
Toilet paper!
This applies mainly to those who travel or camp regularly but I thought this was worth mentioning.
Being at a rest area in the middle of nowhere with out toilet paper is rough!! Trust me! Side note it fits perfectly inside a coffee container which keeps it clean and dry!
Enjoy camping? Take a look at how I turn camping with kids into an outdoor adventure. Click here.
Stroller!
For those with younger kids a stroller is a must!
*Remember* Carry plenty of food, water and blankets when traveling. If you are in a rural area or a place that gets heavy snow fuel up at every town.
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happy valentines!!!! kisses
I have a few additions to your list. We raised seven kids (all adults now.) and these items are must haves for anyone with a little one
Baby wipes
Paper towels (kids spill things and if someone gets sick, you will be glad you have these)
Some kind of spray cleaner preferably a disinfectant (for mishaps and sick kiddos)
Instant ice packs. These come in so handy.
Water bottles (metal, plastic, whatever, just have water)
Sunscreen (because even in winter the sun can burn)
Aloe vera gel
Snacks and juice boxes or water in a cooler in summer because sometimes you have to be in the car longer than expected.
Sunglasses for everyone and a few extra pairs. Protect your peepers
Rain ponchos (the disposable type that will fit anywhere)
At least one towel and one picnic size blanket.
Finally, this one will sound odd, but I will explain. A roll of garbage bags and a bucket with a potty chair adapter that fits on a regular toilet. This is a necessity with toddlers who are potty training and no longer in diapers or pullups. The garbage bag lines the bucket, the seat adapter fits on top and viola instant potty. Use the picnic blanket for privacy. When done, tie the bag up and dispose of it. This bucket and bag can also be used when you have a carsick child and the roll of garbage bags is invaluable. They can be used for emergency rain ponchos, wet clothes as you mentioned, diapers on a road trip, garbage in general, cleaning out your vehicle quickly, they can carry water, and can be placed over mats and seats to protect against muddy shoes when it’s pouring down rain and you need kids in the vehicle quickly. They can be as cheap as you want or whatever brand you prefer.