As a mother of three and a lover of road trips, I know firsthand that traveling with kids can be a challenge.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, there are a number of mistakes that parents can make that can turn what should be a fun-filled adventure into a stressful experience.
In this blog post, I’ll be sharing some of the most common road trip mistakes that parents make when traveling with kids, and how to avoid them!

Road Trip Mistakes
Not Planning Ahead
Have you ever set out on a road trip with your kids, only to realize halfway through that you forgot something crucial? Maybe it was your child’s favorite blanket, or their medication. Or maybe you just didn’t have a clear plan for where you were going and what you were going to do once you got there. Whatever the case may be, the key to avoiding these kinds of road trip mishaps is to plan ahead.
By taking the time to plan out your route and itinerary, you’ll save yourself a lot of stress and frustration down the road. Make a list of everything you’ll need to bring with you, and double-check it before you hit the road. Make sure you have all the necessary documents, like your driver’s license, registration, and insurance information. And if you’re travelling with kids, make sure you have all their essentials packed and ready to go.
Having a clear itinerary will also help you stay on track and make the most of your time on the road. Plan out your rest stops, meal breaks, and any attractions you want to see along the way. If you’re travelling to a specific destination, research the area ahead of time so you know what to expect when you get there. This will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises, and ensure that you make the most of your time on the road.
Finally, don’t underestimate the benefits of advanced planning. By planning ahead, you can often save money on things like hotel rooms, attraction tickets, and meals. You’ll also be able to avoid peak travel times and traffic congestion, which can save you valuable time and energy.
In short, taking the time to plan ahead is one of the most important things you can do to ensure a successful and stress-free road trip with your kids. So before you hit the road, make sure you have a clear plan in place and all your essentials packed and ready to go. Your future self (and your kids) will thank you!
Overpacking
Let’s talk about packing for road trips with our kiddos. Do you ever feel like you need to bring everything but the kitchen sink? Trust me, I’ve been there too. But overpacking can be a real pain, especially when you’re travelling with little ones.
Think about it – the more you pack, the harder it is to find what you need. Plus, all that extra stuff can weigh you down and make it tough to move around. That’s why it’s so important to pack light and pack smart.
One of the best ways to do this is to make a list of all the things you’ll need for your trip. And then, here’s the key: prioritize the essentials. Your child’s medication and favorite blanket are probably more important than their entire toy collection, right? So don’t be afraid to leave some of the extra stuff behind.
Personally, I fill up one of these bags for me and my daughter, one for my older boys to share, then my husband will pack one for himself (his will have anything else that doesn’t fit in the other suitcases.)
Remember, the goal here is to make your life easier, not harder. So pack light, pack smart, and enjoy your road trip with your kiddos!

Not Packing Snacks
Moms, let’s talk about snacks. Specifically, the importance of packing snacks for your road trip with your kids. Because let’s face it, when hunger strikes, things can quickly go from “we’re having fun!” to “I’m hungry and I don’t want to be in this car anymore.”
That’s why packing snacks is so important. Not only does it keep hunger at bay, but it can also help keep everyone’s mood up and prevent meltdowns.
But here’s the catch: not all snacks are created equal. Sure, it’s tempting to load up on junk food, but that’s not going to do anyone any favors in the long run. Instead, opt for healthy snacks that will give your family the energy they need to power through the day.
Some of our favorite healthy snacks include fresh fruit, veggies and dip, trail mix, and granola bars. I also really love these “bear” fruit roll ups, they have awesome ingredients and are actually delicious. And don’t forget to pack plenty of water too! These are my favorite sippy cups. I have tried A LOT of sippy cups and these were just the easiest ones to care for and use.
Trust me, avoiding junk food can make a big difference in everyone’s mood and energy levels. So before you hit the road, take the time to pack some healthy snacks that will keep everyone happy and satisfied. Happy snacking, mamas!
Ignoring Safety
Safety should always be a top priority when you’re on a road trip with your kids. Whether you’re driving long distances or just going on a short trip, it’s important to take precautions to keep everyone safe and secure.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure everyone is properly buckled up in the car, no matter how short the drive. This is non-negotiable.
- Check your car before hitting the road. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, your brakes are working well, and all lights are functioning. Here is a pre trip car checklist for you.
- Pack an emergency kit with items like a first-aid kit, flashlight, and blankets. It’s always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared. I really like this basic car kit off of Amazon, and I just keep it in the car all the time.
- If you’re travelling with young children, consider investing in car seats or boosters that are appropriate for their age and weight.
Taking these safety precautions may seem like a hassle, but they are absolutely essential for a successful road trip. By being prepared and taking steps to ensure everyone’s safety, you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind and without worrying about any potential safety risks.

Overestimating Driving Time
It is easy to overestimate how long it will take to get from point A to point B on a road trip. Maybe you’re factoring in bathroom breaks or traffic, or maybe you’re just being overly cautious. But here’s the thing: overestimating driving time can actually be a real danger, especially when you’re travelling with kids.
If you’re constantly worried about falling behind schedule, it can lead to stress, frustration, and even reckless driving.
That’s why it’s important to accurately estimate how long it will take to get where you’re going. Consider using a GPS or map app to help you plan your route and estimate driving time. And don’t forget to factor in stops for meals and breaks. Our usual road trip is about 14 hours when visiting family but it actually takes us 18 hours to get there because of all the stops with the kids and the dogs…so it is actually very important to factor in break times.
Accurate time management can make all the difference on a road trip. By knowing exactly how long it will take to get to your destination, you can plan ahead and avoid unnecessary stress. Plus, if you end up arriving early, you’ll have some extra time to enjoy the sights along the way.
So, next time you’re planning a road trip, take the time to accurately estimate driving time. It may seem like a small thing, but it can have a big impact on your overall experience. Safe travels, mamas!
Not Keeping Kids Entertained
Let’s face it – long car rides can be a real challenge when you’re travelling with kids. Without proper entertainment, they can quickly get bored, restless, and even cranky. But with a little bit of planning and creativity, you can keep your little ones entertained and happy throughout the entire trip.
Consider packing a bag of activities and games for your kids to enjoy, such as coloring books, puzzles, and travel-sized board games. You can also download their favorite movies, TV shows, or audiobooks onto a tablet or phone for some screen time. And don’t forget to take breaks to stretch their legs and burn off some energy. Here is a list of apps for kids that don’t need wifi, and also a nice list of audiobooks kids love.
The benefits of keeping your kids entertained are twofold. First, it makes the car ride more enjoyable for everyone involved. When your kids are happy and occupied, it can help reduce stress and tension in the car. Plus, it makes the time fly by!
Secondly, by keeping your kids entertained, you’ll be less distracted while driving. It can be dangerous to try and entertain your kids while behind the wheel, so having them happily occupied can help you focus on the road.
So, pack up some entertainment for your kids and make the most of your road trip. Happy kids, happy mama!

Failing to Take Breaks
It’s important to remember that road trips can be exhausting – especially when you’re travelling with kids. That’s why it’s crucial to take regular breaks to stretch your legs, use the restroom, and grab a snack. Failing to take breaks can lead to fatigue, irritability, and even unsafe driving conditions.
One of the best ways to ensure that you’re taking regular breaks is to plan them into your itinerary. For example, you could plan to stop every two hours for a 15-minute break. This will give everyone a chance to use the restroom, stretch their legs, and grab a snack or drink.
Taking breaks has numerous benefits. First, it can help reduce the risk of driver fatigue and increase alertness behind the wheel. Second, it can help improve overall mood and reduce tension in the car. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to take in some sights and explore new places along the way.
So, don’t forget to plan regular breaks into your road trip itinerary. Your body (and your passengers) will thank you for it!

Road Trip Mistakes to Avoid
As moms, we want our family road trips to be memorable for all the right reasons. But all too often, we fall into common road trip mistakes that can leave us stressed and frustrated. From failing to plan ahead to ignoring safety, these mistakes can put a damper on the whole experience.
To recap, it’s important to avoid overpacking, pack healthy snacks, prioritize safety, accurately estimate driving time, keep kids entertained, and take regular breaks. By doing so, you’ll set yourself up for a successful and enjoyable road trip with your kids.
But it’s not just about avoiding mistakes – it’s also about making the most of your trip. Don’t forget to take advantage of the unique experiences that a road trip can offer, such as exploring new places and spending quality time with your family. Take lots of photos and create memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.
Finally, here are a few additional tips to ensure a successful road trip with your kids:
- Create a packing list well in advance of your trip and check items off as you pack them.
- Use apps like Google Maps to plan your route and estimate driving time accurately.
- Pack a first-aid kit in case of accidents or injuries.
- Use a car seat or booster seat for young children and make sure they’re installed correctly.
- Pack a variety of healthy snacks and drinks to keep everyone nourished and hydrated and avoid tantrums.
- Use a variety of entertainment options, such as games, books, movies, and music, to keep kids happy and engaged.
- Make sure to pack a good stroller or have a transportation plan in place.
By following these tips and avoiding common road trip mistakes, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable trip for your whole family. Happy travels, mamas!

This post on road trip mistakes to avoid when traveling with kids was a great read! As a parent who has experienced both the joys and challenges of road tripping with young children, I found the tips and insights in this post to be incredibly helpful.