Road Trip With Kids? Tips To Save Your Sanity

Summer Vacation lets you hit the road with the kiddos! 

This summer, make sure your road trip with the kids doesn't leave you wanting to drive off the pavement. These quick tips can make travel stress free (or close to it). Meineke in New Cumberland want you to have fun and arrive at your destination with your sanity in tacked.

1. Give the kids jobs. When kids have tasks on the road, not only do they feel importantly included, but it takes a bit off your "to-do" list, as well. Have more than one kid who wants a particular job? Easy. Rotate the responsibilities to keep everyone happy.
2. Bring wipes. Lots and lots of wipes.  They work in for everything from sticky hands and ice-cream-covered faces to scrapes and messy car seats. Need to make an emergency potty break on the side of the road? No worries, you've got the tissue-issue covered. (just make sure your wipes are biodegradable).
3. Space out your driving days. Plan your vacation to include breaks between driving days. Back to back days in the back seat can be too much for the kiddos. And, keep in mind that attention spans tend to snap after about 3 to 4 hours (roughly).
4. Don't rest at the rest stop. Instead use rest stops to burn off pent up energy. Pull over, and do jumping jacks, foot races, or an impromptu obstacle course. Plenty of space is usually available at these stops, and  - if your lucky - there may even be a playground to take advantage of.
5. Throw expectations out the window. Keep expectations low, pick your battles, and don't sweat the small stuff.
6. Make sure your car is in top shape before you hit the road. Nothing will ruin a vacation faster than your car breaking down in an unfamiliar town. A quick appointment before you leave at your local auto service center to make sure everything is in top working condition will prevent disaster down the road.

Summer is for making memories, and Meineke wants everyone to associate riding in the car with amazing memories that will last forever. Drop by Meineke BEFORE you hit the road to make sure your travels are safe. If Cumberland is inconvenient, you can get the same top quality service at any of the other 12 Meineke Car Care Centers in South Central Pennsylvania. Call: (717)836-0631