Introduction
Road trips are a great way for tweens to explore the world around them and create lasting memories. However, packing for a road trip can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to tweens. From toiletries to electronics to activities and snacks, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to packing for a road trip with tweens. This article will provide an essential packing list for tweens, as well as tips on planning fun activities and snacks to make the trip enjoyable for everyone.
Create a Packing List
Before embarking on a road trip, it’s important to create a packing list. This will help ensure that you have all the essentials and don’t forget anything important. According to a survey conducted by the American Automobile Association (AAA), “the average family of four spends almost $1,200 on food and lodging during a road trip.” To save money and avoid overpacking, create a detailed packing list ahead of time.
Essential Items
When creating a packing list for a road trip with tweens, there are some essential items that must be included. These items include:
- First aid kit
- Maps or GPS device
- Cell phone charger
- Emergency contact information
- Cash and credit cards
- Prescription medications
- Sunscreen
Clothing
It’s important to pack enough clothing for the duration of the trip. Depending on the length of the trip, pack enough shirts, pants, shorts, and pajamas for each day. It’s also important to pack comfortable shoes, such as sneakers or sandals. Additionally, if the weather is unpredictable, it’s a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater.
Toiletries
Toiletries are also important to bring on a road trip. Pack toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and other personal hygiene items. If you’ll be staying in hotels, bring your own towels and washcloths, as well as disposable cups, plates, and utensils.
Electronics
If your tweens are like most, they’ll want to bring their electronic devices on the road trip. Pack extra chargers, headphones, and any other accessories they may need. Additionally, if you have a laptop or tablet, it’s a good idea to bring those as well. This will allow them to watch movies, play games, and stay connected to friends and family back home.
Plan a Fun Travel Playlist
Music can make any road trip more enjoyable. To get your tweens excited about the trip, create a travel playlist ahead of time. Suggested songs for tweens include:
- “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
- “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
- “Can’t Stop the Feeling” by Justin Timberlake
- “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
- “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars
- “The Middle” by Zedd, Maren Morris, Grey
Creating a playlist is easy with streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Music. Simply create a new playlist, add the desired songs, and sync it to your car’s audio system. This will give your tweens something to look forward to during the drive.
Pack Healthy Snacks
Snacks are an essential part of any road trip. Instead of relying on fast food and vending machines, pack healthy snacks such as nuts, fruits, and vegetables. These snacks will provide your tweens with energy and nutrients, while still satisfying their cravings. Additionally, healthy snacks are cost-effective and can help save money on the road trip.
Suggestions for Snacks
Some suggestions for healthy snacks include:
- Trail mix
- Whole grain crackers
- Granola bars
- Dried fruit
- String cheese
- Yogurt
- Vegetable sticks
- Popcorn
Benefits of Healthy Snacks
In addition to providing energy and nutrients, healthy snacks have many other benefits. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, “healthy snacks can reduce hunger and improve cognitive function, focus, and concentration.” This can be especially helpful during long drives, when your tweens may become bored or restless.
Prepare for Emergencies
No one likes to think about potential emergencies, but it’s important to be prepared. Pack a first aid kit, flashlights, extra batteries, a tool kit, and a spare tire. Additionally, it’s a good idea to keep a map of the area in case your GPS fails or you get lost.
Types of Emergency Items to Bring
When packing for a road trip, it’s important to include emergency items such as:
- Jumper cables
- Fire extinguisher
- Blankets
- Extra water
- Non-perishable food
- Towels
- Flares
- Tire iron
Examples of Emergency Items
Some suggested examples of emergency items include:
- A flashlight with extra batteries
- A multi-tool with a knife, pliers, and screwdriver
- A first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers
- A fire extinguisher
- A roll of duct tape
- A tow rope
- A spare tire
- A gallon of water
Bring Activities
Long drives can be boring, so it’s important to pack activities to keep your tweens entertained. Some ideas for activities include:
- Board games
- Cards
- Coloring books
- Books
- Puzzles
- Sudoku
- Tablets/laptops
How to Keep Them Occupied
The key to keeping your tweens occupied during a road trip is to plan ahead. Have activities ready for them to do during long drives. This will help prevent boredom and make the trip more enjoyable for everyone.
Take Breaks
It’s important to take frequent breaks when traveling with tweens. Not only will this help keep them from getting restless, but it will also give them a chance to stretch their legs and get some fresh air. Additionally, taking breaks can help reduce fatigue and make the trip safer.
Reasons for Taking Breaks
There are several reasons why taking breaks is beneficial. First, it helps reduce fatigue, which can lead to drowsiness and impaired driving. Additionally, taking breaks gives everyone a chance to get out of the car and take a break from the monotony of the drive.
Frequency of Breaks
How often should you take breaks? That depends on how long you’ll be driving and how much your tweens can handle. For longer drives, it’s best to plan for breaks every few hours. This will give your tweens a chance to rest and recharge before getting back on the road.
Conclusion
Traveling with tweens can be a challenge, but with a little preparation it can be an enjoyable experience. By creating a detailed packing list, planning fun activities, packing healthy snacks, and preparing for emergencies, you can make sure your tweens have a safe and enjoyable road trip. Be sure to take frequent breaks to give everyone a chance to stretch their legs and get some fresh air. With the right preparation, your tweens will have an unforgettable road trip.
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