Winter car family tips!

With the end of term now behind us many of us are contemplating a car journey to relatives. Whether its half an hour or four you can guarantee the children will start getting bored! Travelbag.co.uk are well aware of the stresses of travelling with children especially in the winter. With it being dark so early theres nothing to see out of the window. They’ve asked me to share my top tips about travelling in the winter with you.

Games

First up do try travelling in the evening, the roads tend to be quieter so your journey takes less time plus with the darkness also comes the lighting up of trees. We spend a lot of time counting trees in peoples windows or looking at the decorations some have up. We also take a detour when going to my parents to go past a rather spectacular house! I’d hate to have the electricity bill by the boys adoring going past every year! Play a game of car bingo or i spy.

Tablets

Tablets seem to get cheaper and cheaper every year and some can be found on the high street at £20. We do personally try and save the technology in the car till towards the end (well maybe half way) when the endless question of “are we nearly there yet” kicks in. Whether you pop on lots of apps beforehand or download some winter film’s before you go they can be a god send on long trips just to get a couple of hours peace!

Preparation

Preparation is key! Cars tend to get warm and to child is going to be happy bundled up in winter gear while the heater blast and they can’t get their coat off! Pop them in the seats in normal clothing but place their coats over the top so they are easier to remove as the car gets warm. Its also wise to keep the temperature of the car a little cooler to reduce drivers dozing off and keeping them alert. Prepare for drinks and snacks as well before you go and make sure they are easily accessible. It defeats the purpose if you have to pull in to the services to rummage around to find the drinks or food. Keep wipes handy too!

Stops

Again preparation is key here. Plan ahead for stops. Check the opening hours! The last thing you want is to promise the kids a stop only to find their winter opening hours have left you locked out. We find the National Trust great to stop off at as they tend to have plenty of activities and quizs for the kids to take part in while they let off steam.

Of course as well consider sing a longs, colouring books, activity packs – Usborne do some great little carry cases filled with sticker books and games and most of all just relax as much as you can. You’ll get there eventually- trust me I spent three hours on a diversion once on Christmas eve when we were less than a mile from the house! Have a break down doesn’t help, so the kids tell me any way!