With summer quickly approaching, families across the country will begin planning their summer travels. While some will opt for airplanes, trains and buses, many will pack up the car for the traditional Road Trip. For generations families have both anticipated and dreaded the endless miles
of American highway. For some it is merely an obstacle to their destination, while to others (like my family) the journey is part of the adventure.
What turns the road trip from an obstacle to an adventure? That's a great question! I think the answer is planning and having the mindset that the drive is a positive part of the family's experience. As my children grow older, I treasure our time in the car more than ever. I realize the days of packing them with us are growing shorter as they get closer and closer to adulthood. So, we do our best to make the most of those precious miles between us and our final destination.
Before leaving on our trip we take the time to prepare. We make a basic outline of the areas we will be driving through and the types of activities which are available along the way. We encourage the whole family to be involved in researching the information. Everyone seems to have a more positive mindset about something they have helped plan!
Figure out how much time your child (and yourself!) can realistically handle in the car then stick to that each day. Too much time in the car can make the whole family grouchy, even if you have had fun along the way (too much of a good thing...). Most children can handle about 6 - 8 hours max. We don't plan hotels along the way because we do not want to be tied into making a certain destination each night. We can stop wherever we need to, based upon the mood of the family.
Though you may plan out the basics of your journey, allow for flexibility. Watch the roadside signs and you may find a 'must-see' tourist attraction! Some of our favorite trips have included stops at attractions that weren't in the travel and tourism books.
What turns the road trip from an obstacle to an adventure? That's a great question! I think the answer is planning and having the mindset that the drive is a positive part of the family's experience. As my children grow older, I treasure our time in the car more than ever. I realize the days of packing them with us are growing shorter as they get closer and closer to adulthood. So, we do our best to make the most of those precious miles between us and our final destination.
Before leaving on our trip we take the time to prepare. We make a basic outline of the areas we will be driving through and the types of activities which are available along the way. We encourage the whole family to be involved in researching the information. Everyone seems to have a more positive mindset about something they have helped plan!
Figure out how much time your child (and yourself!) can realistically handle in the car then stick to that each day. Too much time in the car can make the whole family grouchy, even if you have had fun along the way (too much of a good thing...). Most children can handle about 6 - 8 hours max. We don't plan hotels along the way because we do not want to be tied into making a certain destination each night. We can stop wherever we need to, based upon the mood of the family.
Though you may plan out the basics of your journey, allow for flexibility. Watch the roadside signs and you may find a 'must-see' tourist attraction! Some of our favorite trips have included stops at attractions that weren't in the travel and tourism books.
Make learning fun for the family by going sightseeing at historical places. This makes a great history lesson for the kids, and teaches things in a fun way instead of by the book.
By Carolyn McFann | Published 5/18/2007 | Read more »
Girlfriend getaways are the hottest travel trend these days. My favorite type of girlfriend getaway is hitting the open highway for a road trip. Having traveled over many American roadways with my gal pals, I'm sharing the tips I've learned from these road trips.
By JA Huber | Published 5/22/2007 | Read more »
We all need to get away sometimes. And a family vacation is the perfect getaway.
By Sharon Lynn | Published 6/27/2007 | Read more »
Do you hate delays, do you want a cheaper fare, do you want to see the many great U.S. locales, when if you do you should consider this travel plan on for your next vacation.
By Anime Boy | Published 7/30/2007 | Read more »
Some tips to make a trip with the kids enjoyable for all!
By Yvonne Mac | Published 4/5/2008 | Read more »
Whether to stay at a condo or a hotel will set the course for the rest of your vacation. Here's what you need to know to make that decision.
By Lucia Stoller | Published 4/9/2008 | Read more »
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