When there are more than 3 to 4 people in a family, how a large family travels are somewhat different from others.
It is a fact that a lot of differences comes – even a small cost multiplied by, say eight people, turns into a large cost very quickly.
The tax, food, family cars, stay and many other elements of travelling become a little expensive. This often draws the classic debate between “drive versus fly” in any large family. So it is up to you, to measure every aspect of the trip – age of your family members, expenditure, distance and time to conclude.
Since a family road trip adds up to the overall experience of travelling, we are here to give you exclusive tips to survive a road trip with a large family.
Let’s get started!
1. Screen Time Limits
Screen time has become one of the most serious problems with everyone around us nowadays. If you ask your kids what their ideal road trip is, they’ll probably say – snacks, screens and space!
We do understand that road trips call for fun and you should let go of (some) rules, you should introduce some games that can be easily played while on the way and cut everyone’s screen time.
Memory games are one way to entertain everyone on family cars, another way is that you could consider asking your family members to make a mixtape beforehand.
Everyone can enjoy the scenic roads while listening to their favourite person’s favourite music.
2. Proper Space
This is probably one of the most important parts of a road trip journey with a large family. Unfortunately, it is also one of the factors that you probably don’t have complete control over. But, it is up to you how you plan your journey.
The easiest solution to getting enough space for a large family on a road trip is renting a car. Now it’s up to you, to plan your expenses according to the kind of car you and your family desire.
One possible option is to rent two cars instead of a larger one, something that can probably save you money while renting. This can also help you split up kids that can’t seem to get along for a smooth ride.
3. Plan A Realistic Driving Schedule
It is extremely important to be realistic with your timings when traveling with a large family. Be it driving, taking breaks or any other things that need planning when you are on a road trip.
You know your family the best, but be wise about when you start your trip. You should look at your routes through major cities to plan your driving schedule accordingly. You will likely be stuck in traffic for hours with a screaming infant, stuck nowhere to go.
While some families do fancy driving for long hours, we say you should not use all your energy in it.
That said, some families also prefer to drive through the night as a way to maximise vacation time. While that is possible, we suggest you plan better and avoid night driving as much as possible.
If you see there is traffic ahead, make sure you accommodate your break before you enter that area. Use maps and once in a while go crazy!
4. Take Breaks
Depending on a lot of factors like how long you’re travelling, the age of your family members and so on, you’ll probably need to stop several times along the way.
If the route is known to you, you probably already have your favourite rest stops. We suggest you turn those stops for food, gas and bathroom into mini-exercise breaks.
A good idea is to find a grassy spot and do anything from quick yoga to playing a game of hide n seek. We are sure the older kids will participate grumpily, but everyone will definitely enjoy it.
For longer breaks, it can be wise to factor in stops at appropriate places such as a campground or even an RV Park if you are traveling in an RV. This can help you to check out different scenery and take a break from being on the road so you can recharge properly and be ready to keep moving forward.
Bottom Line…
Last but not the least, you should let go of all the stressful days you’ve had, be with your family and enjoy the picturesque beauty that surrounds your way.
While stocking on food and water is primary, you should also not dwell on perfection. It’s okay to make mistakes, fall short of your favourite snack – who knows? You might end up experiencing an adventure when you set out to search and buy things you probably forgot to carry!