Embarking on an RV journey with your kids (or grandkids!) is a fantastic way to not only spend quality time as a family but also to explore new places and connect with nature. However, RVing with children can present its unique challenges. With proper planning and a little patience, the memories you create will undoubtedly make it all worthwhile.
PART OF THE PLANNING
Even young children have creative ideas and a desire to be part of the adventure. Include them in the trip planning process. Show them videos of campgrounds and ask for their input on what they’d like to do at these locations. If you’re visiting a National Park, order a guidebook and let them choose the places they’re most excited to explore. Involving them not only builds excitement but also gives them a sense of ownership over the trip, making it even more special.
CUT DOWN ON TRAVEL TIME
While adults might be willing to endure long hours on the road to reach a destination quickly, kids often have a harder time with extended travel. Long road trips can be uncomfortable and boring for little passengers, particularly if they are in car seats. To keep the excitement alive and prevent meltdowns, consider breaking down your travel days into shorter periods. Make sure to have plenty of handheld activities and snacks on hand to keep your little ones engaged.
PLENTY OF BREAKS
Traveling with kids means rethinking your approach to rest stops. It’s not as simple as pulling into a gas station, running inside for a quick restroom break, and grabbing snacks. Bathroom breaks with children can be an adventure in themselves. Before hitting the road, check your route for available rest areas or suitable stopping points. “Scheduling” potty breaks can be quite helpful, especially depending on the type of RV you’re driving or towing. Not every place is RV-friendly, so plan accordingly. A pro tip: Rest areas are not only easy to access but also save you from spending hours in a gas station that turns into a shopping spree, which can be challenging with restless kids.
HAVE FUN
Traveling can be stressful, but it’s essential to find joy in the journey. Not everything will go according to plan, and there might be some meltdowns along the way. However, challenging situations can create lasting bonding experiences. Show your kids that camping is fun, and they’ll want to continue RVing for years to come. Make the most of every situation and remember that kids, in general, enjoy the simple things. RVing is all about getting back to nature and unwinding, so let them get dirty, play in the river, help build a campfire, and forage for marshmallow sticks. Capture these moments with photos that both you and your kids will cherish in the years to come.
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