As summer marches towards us, final plans and preparations are being made for wonderful, memory making road trips. Routes are planned, hotels are booked, and a final vehicle inspection has been completed.
There’s one thing that often rears its head when it comes to road trips, though.
How do we keep the kids entertained?
The Maritimes are known for its scenic drives. From the Fundy Coast, to the Cabot Trail, from the Saint John River Valley, to the busy city of Halifax, there are a thousand things to see; but when there’s often two to three hours driving between destinations, children tend to get bored, even with beautiful sights to see. We all know to pack lots of snacks, and toys (Overpack snacks, underpack toys). But, check out these tips to keep your kids from (driving you off the road) (going bananas in the back) (making you want to tie them up).
Family Meeting
Before you go anywhere, sit down with your family and talk about the trip. Where are you going, how long will it take, and stops along the way. You can also decide other pieces at this time, too, like who’s in charge of music, who sits where, and who’s in charge of snacks (Hint. It’s you.).
Roadside Attractions
The highlight of any trips is the journey, and roadside attractions can help break up the trip. In The Maritimes alone we have the world’s largest lobster, giant sandpipers, a giant blueberry, and the world’s largest illuminated fiddle!
Car Games
You’ve got the old faithfuls, like Eye Spy, and Punch Buggy. This year you can spice things up with license plate bingo, mad-libs, or a travel scavenger hunt. As a bonus, have a quick game of Pokemon Go, or geocache when you pull over for gas, or washroom breaks!
Let’s All Go To the Movies
With the advent of tablets and smaller laptops, movies and tv shows can become a time passer while traveling. For longer trips, each traveling gets to choose a movie or tv show, and everyone watches together. But remember; sometimes the closest you’re going to get to alone time on a road trip is a pair of noise canceling headphones and the Harry Potter audiobook series. Know your limits (Bonus: Gas stations have really upped their popcorn game. Pick up a couple of bags when you fill up on petrol).
Take Time to Enjoy
We sometimes get caught up in how to do things efficiently and properly that we forget to enjoy the process. A road trip can make an amazing amount of memories, not just for the kids, but for you as well. Go, drive and have fun. Leave early, and stop often. Make a spontaneous turn. Life is an adventure. And don’t forget, Coastal Inns has six locations in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick – we can’t wait to welcome you and your family as your daily adventures come to an end.
