Ultimate Road Trip Packing List with Kids

Embarking on a road trip with kids can be an exciting adventure and is a wonderful way to see a Country. However, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, it’s essential to pack everything your family will need. This road trip packing list with kids will help you stay organised and fully prepared. From entertainment to safety essentials, we’ve got you covered. Thank you for coming to read our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List with Kids.

Clothing and Personal Items

  • Comfortable clothing for each day of the trip
  • Extra layers (jumpers, jackets) for varying weather conditions
  • Swimwear for water activities (bring at least 2 sets each if a lot of swimming is likely).
  • Sun hats and sunglasses for sun protection
  • Toiletries (toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)
  • Medications and any necessary prescriptions
  • First aid kit including plasters, antiseptic cream, pain killers (calpol for kids), bite cream and insect repellant.

Entertainment and Comfort

  • Favourite toys, games, and puzzles (avoid small pieces which can get easily lost in a car).
  • Laptops, Tablets or phones for movies and shows
  • Headphones for each child
  • Activity books and colouring supplies
  • Travel pillows and blankets for added comfort
  • Snacks and drinks (take more than you expect to use. Avoid anything that melts like chocolate).
  • Reusable water bottles

Car Essentials

  • Child car seats appropriate for their age and weight
  • Window shades to block excess sunlight
  • Car organisers for storage and easy access to essentials (you can find ones on Amazon, here).
  • Plastic bags to collect rubbish.
  • GPS navigation system or smartphone with navigation apps. This is especially worth researching in advance if your trip is abroad, check you have the data to use your phone if you plan to use that as a map.

Safety and Security

  • Basic car emergency kit (first aid kit, torch, water, blanket etc.)
  • Sun Cream and After Sun.
  • Roadside assistance contact information (this is usually supplied with your hire car if applicable, check at point of hire).
  • Extra car keys (if available)
  • Childproof locks for car windows and doors (if you’re in a hire car with young children check how to turn these on)
  • ID for each family member (IDs, passports, etc.)
  • Emergency contact list with important numbers (again in a hire car, this is usually provided at point of hire).

Snacks and Refreshments

  • Healthy snacks (fruit, cereal bars, dry cereal).
  • Easy-to-eat finger foods (crackers, cheese sticks, yoghurt pouches)
  • Water/Squash
  • Insulated cool-box or lunchbox to keep snacks fresh

Miscellaneous

  • Cash and/or credit cards
  • Travel-sized umbrella
  • Plastic bags for wet clothes
  • Wet wipes and tissues for quick clean-ups
  • Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
  • Travel games or audiobooks for the whole family to enjoy

Conclusion

By following this road trip packing list with kids, you’ll ensure that your family adventure is stress-free and enjoyable. From clothing essentials to entertainment and safety items, being prepared is key to a successful road trip.

Remember, amend the above list to account for your personal circumstances. Safe travels!

If you have found this list useful try our other lists here –

UK family packing list

Family beach holiday packing list

Long haul flight survival list with kids

Thank you for reading our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List with Kids.

Share your thoughts