Ready to make an RV trip with the kids? It can be a great, memorable experience that they remember forever. Here are a few tips to make sure it goes well.

Tip #1: Plan as a Family

The first tip is to plan the trip as a family. No, that doesn’t mean every single detail needs to get flushed out together. We recommend that you and your partner come up with the most important details. Then, come up with suggestions on the smaller details and ask the kids what they think.

For example, you and your partner can select when you go, what type of vehicle you’ll get (if you don’t have one yet) and where your adventure will take you. Then, you can come up with ideas on what to do when you get there and the types of food and entertainment you’ll bring. Ask the kids what they think and adjust the plans accordingly. Maybe you’d planned on bringing all their Legos, but they actually just want a lot of books or toy cars.

Planning like this has two advantages.

First, it keeps you in control. You are guiding the trip to be one that you want. Yes, it will be different than going with just adults. Second, the kids will be more interested and have more fun on the trip. Kids want to know they’re part of the family and that their opinions matter. By including them in the planning, you help them feel important.

Tip #2: Avoid Long Travel Days

When you’re by yourself, with your partner, or a furry companion, long travel days can be fun. It’s amazing how much distance you can cover when you set your mind to it.

But traveling with kids is different. Spending 12 hours of driving may be feasible, but it's going to make them miserable. Kids need to use their pent-up energy, and keeping them cooped up in the car all day makes that difficult.

Aim for shorter rides. Ideally you would spend less than 6 hours of actual travel time. That’s enough time to travel a significant distance, but short enough that your kids won’t be going bonkers.

Something else to keep in mind - kids need potty breaks! You probably won’t be able to pull 6 hours straight. Plan on stopping at least once or twice.

Tip #3: Come Prepared

Being prepared for just about anything and everything will make your trip go smoother. No, you don’t have tons of room in the RV but you should think ahead and pack things your kids will need.

For example, bring a sound machine to play white noise at night. That will drown out other noises and help everyone sleep better.

Bring some kind of big play mat or blanket. This gives the kids a place to sit outside and read, eat, rest, and play.

Don’t forget the snacks! The way to a child’s heart is having their favorite snacks available at all times. Plus you’ll probably save money - it’s always cheaper to bring your own snacks then buy some overpriced ones at a gas station. 

Conclusion

Best of luck on your RV trip with kids! It’s an interesting experience, but one that you’ll be glad you did.