Car rides can be tolling on most adults, let alone a toddler. Our toddler has already conquered a handful of long distance (over 8 hrs) car trips, but not without hitting a few snags here and there. We’ve compiled a list of tips when going on those long distance rides with a toddler in-tow.

 

1. Make bathroom breaks from any gas and food stop. Time is of the essence, especially when you have hundreds of miles ahead. To limit the number of stops, try to make the most out of each one. Make sure your toddler knows the primary objective for each stop is a Potty Break! Once he does his business, then hop in line to grab lunch or let him walk around the gas station and grab a drink while your partner tops off.
2. Use Pull Ups. Your little one may be fully potty trained (like ours) however accidents happen especially if you’re stuck in traffic or racing to the nearest gas station. Not that you want to promote an accident but throwing away a pull up is a lot easier than trying to dry and clean a wet car seat on the side of the highway.
3. Have lots of easy to open (and clean) snacks and try to stay clear of those packed with sugar. Your toddler may not be ready for lunch when its convenient for you to stop. Pack a cooler with PB&J, bananas, apples, peanut butter crackers, applesauce, yogurt, and cheerios. These little snacks will go a long way!
4. Bring things for entertainment on the ride. A sing-a-long cd will help to pass the time, coloring books, and little figures (our little guy has the diecast Disney Cars that are perfect for traveling). If you don’t have a dvd player in the car, think about getting a portable player or downloading movies onto your iPad, especially if the ride is going to take the majority of the day!
5. Don’t depend on the DVD player or iPad for the whole trip. Although a dvd is GREAT and watching a movie really helps to pass the time, don’t use it as your necessity. Take advantage of the opportunity for conversation. Ask your toddler to look out the window and tell you what he sees. Make a special song when you cross into a new state. Talk about the things you plan to do on your trip (and what he enjoyed about the trip on the ride home). When the car ride is starting to take its toll, then opt for the electronics.

 

Instead of dreading the car ride, make the most out of the time with your family. It’s a prime opportunity to really listen to your toddler’s perspective of the world!