Social distancing rules discourage traveling right now, but that doesn’t prevent you from getting a head start on your next family vacation. Taking an RV trip together can be just the kind of experience that helps your family relax and bond while making long-lasting memories in scenic, natural settings. However, it’s not without its fair share of challenges. It might be near impossible to have a completely smooth journey with the uncertainties of the road and your children, but you can come well-prepared. To help you along your way, here’s how to survive an RV road trip with kids.
Pack Smart
While you want to be ready for whatever comes your way, you should also aim to pack lightly. Carrying too much can leave you flustered during the trip when the things you need are buried deep inside your bags. Make life simpler by packing only necessities and a few items to entertain the kids. This could include some games, snacks, and books. Even something simple like a Rubik’s cube can go a long way in keeping them occupied while you travel. Additionally, if you’re going somewhere cold, bring the right clothes and blankets to keep everyone warm and comfortable.
Plan Ahead
Don’t rely on whatever pops up for places to stay as you plan your trip. Carefully research each facility you consider. Not all RV parks are equal, and some will have more amenities than others. If you know you will need to replenish electricity and water, find sites that provide this. It’s also important to have a place to empty your waste tank as well. Along your chosen route, think about where you will be able to stop for breaks so that the family can stretch their legs. This will also help your kids to handle longer driving days better. Additionally, you should be sure that your RV is ready for the trip ahead of time by performing maintenance on it before you leave. If you know that you’ll be traveling in low temperatures, proper attachments, such as a heated gate valve for your RV, can prevent problems from arising in the middle of the journey. Inspect your engine and furnace, and see that you fill up on gas, water, and electricity.
Slow Down
Taking an RV trip isn’t an everyday experience, so you may want to try and fill up your schedule with as many destinations as you can. However, this can be taxing on your kids as you rush from one place to the next with little time to relax. Some of the best advice for how to survive an RV road trip with kids is to simply take your time. It’s better to stay in one spot for a couple of days and enjoy the area with hikes and other outdoor activities. This way, your kids won’t get as antsy, and you’ll be able to truly take in your surroundings.
