Surviving Travel Days with Kids

Holly Holter
May 17
2 min read

How We Keep Kids Entertained on Long Travel Days

Because "Are we there yet?" will happen. But it doesn’t have to ruin the day.

Let’s be honest—long travel days with kids aren’t exactly the highlight reel of a family trip. They’re messy, unpredictable, and often powered by snacks and hope.

But over time (and many, many miles), we’ve figured out a few ways to keep our little travelers happy, engaged, and maybe even gasp having fun along the way.

1. The Surprise Bag Trick

This is our secret weapon. Before a trip, we stash a few inexpensive toys, activity books, or crafts in a small bag. Each item is a surprise—and we only reveal one at a time when we really need it.

Think:

Stickers and mini coloring books
Puzzle cubes or magnetic games
Reusable water-reveal activity pads

Pro tip: Wrap them like gifts for extra excitement (and extra time spent unwrapping).

2. Snacks = Sanity

Never underestimate the power of snacks. And not just any snacks—snacks that take time to eat (trail mix to sort, raisins to pick, string cheese to peel).Bonus if they don’t melt or make a massive mess.

Also? Pack double what you think you’ll need. Trust us.

3. Screens Are Not the Enemy

When all else fails, we fully embrace screens. But we mix it up:

Downloaded movies
Educational games or audiobooks
Drawing apps or interactive stories

Don’t forget: Headphones with volume limiters and a portable charger are lifesavers.

4. Audio Adventures

Podcasts and audiobooks are game changers. They calm the chaos, create shared experiences, and don’t require screen time.

Some family favorites:

Circle Round (folktales for kids)
Brains On! (science made fun)
The Gruffalo and other short audiobooks

5. Movement Breaks Are a Must

If you're in an airport or making road trip stops, let them move!Obstacle courses in empty gates. Dance-offs at rest stops. Even a few stretches go a long way.

When stuck in a seat? Try:

Silly seated stretches
"Find something blue" games
Mini hand clapping games or finger yoga

6. Get Them Involved

Let kids help “plan” the day:

Give them a travel map or let them track your route
Assign them the role of “snack manager” or “time keeper”
Let them pack their own mini backpack with activities (with some guidance)

Feeling involved helps them feel in control—and that means fewer meltdowns.

7. Embrace the Unexpected

No plan is perfect. There will be delays, spills, and tired tears. We’ve learned that the best travel days happen when we keep our expectations low, our flexibility high, and our humor intact.

Sometimes, the weirdest travel moments turn into the best stories later.

In the end, long travel days are just part of the adventure.They may not be glamorous, but they’re where the memories start—complete with cracker crumbs, giggles, and a whole lot of love on the move.

Until Next Time,

Your Bibbidi Bobbidi Bestie,

Holly