If traveling with your kids reminds you of screaming children, missed rest stops, and the 4 haunting words—”Are we there yet?”—you might feel overwhelmed taking your kids anywhere. But, there are a few travel hacks for kids we have up our sleeve that may just change everything for your next family vacation.

Create Family Playlists

With a long drive ahead, one way to easily distract your kids and keep the family’s sanity is to create a playlist of songs that everyone can listen to. Surprisingly, music can keep fighting to a minimum and can be a good distractor for those times when the kids are getting restless.

Pack Comfort Items for the Kids

If your kids are really young, a comfort item from home like a favorite blanket, stuffed toy, or even their own pillow can make the car ride more comfortable. Simply traveling with a stuffed friend of theirs can make their trip and your trip all the easier. This travel hack for kids is one you won’t want to forget.

Create a Road Trip Bucket List and Play Together

Long car trips are hard for anyone, but especially kids. Kids are movers, fidgeters, and talkers. With a road trip bucket list, your family will be kept busy with stops along the way that will feature beautiful views, memories, and of course—leg-stretching opportunities.

Download Audiobooks

Traveling can be educational. Seriously! You can use it as a time to point out landmarks as well as download helpful audiobooks that teach children lessons. This travel hack for kids will keep your kids engaged in educational conversations all while keeping them entertained!

Plan a Few Surprises

No matter how old they are, kids love something to look forward to. Whether it’s a toy or an activity, having something that they can anticipate on the trip will make them feel special and help keep their energy levels high. Small surprises can do a world of good for you in keeping your children pleasant throughout your vacation.

Wait Until Takeoff Before Opening Snacks & Playing with Games

We know it’s hard to wait but try not to give your kids snacks and games until the plane takes off. This will help you keep them occupied during that long wait on the runway or an ear-popping landing!

Talk About Expectations

One crucial travel hack is letting your kids know your expectations before you leave your home. If that means no yelling in the car, then let them know. You can also remind them of all the fun things they can look forward to on your trip. With some communication in advance, your trip will be as smooth as butter.

Plan Car Games

Car Bingo or I Spy are just a few classic family favorites. Let the kids take turns picking out games they would like to play together while you’re driving.

Bring Airplane Pillows & A Blanket

Airplane pillows are great for long flights. Kids will be more comfortable and can easily snuggle up if they want to catch a quick nap. A blanket is also a good idea in case the temperatures drop during your flight.

Soar Vacation Rentals: The Perfect Family Vacation

While there are so many ways to keep your family entertained on a road trip, the best thing you can do for your family is take them to a place that will live on in their memories forever. Located in Galveston, Texas, Soar Vacation Rental Services is the perfect place for your family to connect, relax, and make unforgettable memories. With Soar Vacation Rentals, you can choose from condos, townhomes, or even beachfront homes for the ideal family vacation.

So next time you’re choosing a family vacation, be sure to try out these travel hacks for kids and book your stay at Soar Vacation Rentals. You won’t regret it!