Are you preparing to go on a family adventure with the help of an RV? Certainly, traveling with the entire family may be fun and a great way to bond and make some great memories, but it’s also a big source of inconvenience if not properly prepared. Here is an article to share some ways of preparing for the trip to make the most of the family time.
Preparing for Your Family RV Adventure
Before you hit the road, make a few changes around the place. RV living could just be the adventure of a lifetime, but following these preps makes for a great trip for all. Choosing the Right RV for Your Family
The first step is to choose the right RV for your family. Consider the size and layout that will best suit your needs. Those traveling with young children can look for RVs that include bunk beds or convertible tables that can support small children. If you travel with teenagers, then an RV that has separate sleeping areas can be your best bet, as it will allow your teen to get a little privacy. Also, consider what amenities come along with the RV when hiring one. Some RVs come with a full kitchen, bathroom, and entertainment.
Packing Essentials for Kids
Don’t forget, when packing, not to leave anything that would be of necessity to your children. Enough diapers, baby wipes, and spare clothing, because most likely there will be a fallout on the way. Besides, it will be great if you carry a first aid kit well-stocked with basics such as bandages, antiseptics, and some kinds of pain relievers.
Games, books, and toys are the best items to pack so that kids can remain busy during the drive. If it is a longer drive, you can definitely take along a portable DVD player or a tablet. You can also encourage your children to keep a travel journal in which they note different activities that they engaged in while on the road.
Planning Your Route and Campgrounds
You can even plan your route out in detail, even go on to research campgrounds. Look for the kind of parks with playgrounds, swimming pools, even hiking. Take a look at the distance that the campgrounds are from each other, and then plan your driving time as needed.
One more thing that a person needs to look at when choosing a camping site is the facilities given at the camping site. Some will offer full hookups for RVs, while others only offer bathrooms and showers. Look for facilities like laundry, Wi-Fi, and other necessary comforts that will ensure your trip is comfortable. Lastly, do check out the weather for the place you are heading to and pack accordingly. Do take warm clothes for the nights that chill out, rain protection just in case it pours down, and sunblock lotion and insect repellents in case you want to hang outdoors.
Keeping Kids Entertained on the Road
Long drives can sometimes be dull. Be it a trip to grandma’s house or something exciting, like a country adventure, it is another way to make sure that the kids will not be bored in the car.
Fun Road Trip Games
Entertain with games such as “I Spy” or “20 Questions.” Easily popular and classic car games, these games require no props and are easy to do. Another great entertaining idea is to make a kind of scavenger hunt of all the items children may see right from the road; you may make a list of things for them to find, such as a red truck, a billboard describing a certain restaurant, etc. The first one to spot everything on the list wins!
Educational Activities
Infuse your holiday with education by mixing a number of educative activities. Take your time to visit a number of museums, historic sites, and national parks with an objective of sharing history and nature with your children. Most of these national parks have ranger programs for kids. They involve almost everything, from nature walks to investigations of plants and animals, sometimes with forays into geocaching or other kinds of treasure hunting. Many museums feature exhibits that are interactive and entirely made for children to ensure that the learning process is not only fun but also very engaging. Another educational-related activity is to make the kids maintain a travel journal. Encourage them to write what places they have been to, what kind of food they have been tasting, and what kind of people they have been meeting during the travel time. They can also draw pictures or collect postcards to put in their journal. Not only does this help them remember the trip, but it also develops their writing and observation skills.
Screen Time Management
You’ll be tempted to let the kids have screens on for those long drives; still, limit the screen time. Try and do everything in your power so that their eyes don’t strain and their little minds don’t get bored. It is often said that children should be encouraged to look out of the window and see what is out there. Your “I Spy” game is in order; your kids can search for number plates of different states. You also might want to bring along some audiobooks or podcasts that your family is enjoying. This not only keeps everyone entertained, but it also encourages discussion and can spark new interests.
Meal Planning and Snacks
Eating on the road doesn’t have to be unhealthy or challenging. In fact, with a little bit of planning, you can enjoy nutritious and delicious meals while on the go.
Easy and Nutritious Meal Ideas
Plan simple meals that don’t require a lot of prep work like sandwiches, salads, and grilled meats. These meals are not only easy to make, but they are also packed with nutrients that will keep you energized throughout your travels.
If you’re looking for some inspiration, try making a turkey and avocado sandwich on whole wheat bread, or a grilled chicken salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
Don’t forget to bring a portable grill or use the one on your RV to cook up meals. Grilling is a great way to add flavor to your food without adding extra calories.
Kid-Friendly Snack Options
Stock up on snacks like fruit, nuts, and granola bars to keep kids fueled and happy. These snacks are not only tasty but they are also packed with nutrients that will keep your little ones energized throughout the day.
For a fun and interactive snack, try making fruit kabobs with strawberries, pineapples, and grapes. Your kids will love helping you assemble them, and they will enjoy eating them even more.
Tips for Cooking in an RV
Cooking in an RV can take some getting used to, but with a few tips and tricks, you can become a pro in no time.
Make sure to stock your pantry with essentials like spices, oil, and flour. These ingredients will come in handy when you’re making meals on the go.
Another great tip is to use a slow cooker to make easy and delicious meals. Simply add your ingredients in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a flavorful and nutritious meal that requires minimal effort.
Safety and Comfort While RVing
While RVing is a great way to bond with your family and create unforgettable memories, it’s important to prioritize safety and comfort to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable trip.
One of the most important things to consider when RVing with children is childproofing your RV. Cover sharp corners with foam and use child locks on cabinets and drawers to prevent accidents. It’s also a good idea to bring a baby gate to block off any areas that may be unsafe for your little ones.
Ensuring a Good Night’s Sleep
A good night’s sleep is essential for a successful RV trip. Invest in comfortable mattresses, sleeping bags, or bedding to ensure everyone gets a good night’s rest. If you’re RVing during the summer months, use black-out curtains to block out the light and help your family sleep in a little longer. And don’t forget to bring your child’s favorite blanket or stuffed animal to help them feel at home.
First Aid and Emergency Preparedness
It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so make sure to pack a well-stocked first aid kit for any bumps, bruises, or scrapes that may happen along the way. It’s also important to be prepared for emergencies. Teach your children what to do in case of an emergency and ensure they know how to contact you in case they get lost.
Another important aspect of emergency preparedness is having a plan in case of inclement weather. Be aware of the weather forecast and have a plan in place in case of severe weather, such as thunderstorms or tornadoes.
By following these tips and prioritizing safety and comfort, your family RV trip is sure to be one you’ll never forget!