6 must-haves for long weekend road trips
Provided by Thinkstock
It’s almost Memorial Day, which means you’re most likely gearing up for a three-day vacation.
In fact, a survey by AAA found that about two-thirds of adults in the United States planned on going on a vacation between Memorial Day and Labor Day–with an average of 3.5 trips over the summer.
However, two of the main concerns about taking a summer trip are finding the time and packing. A weekend road trip–even just exploring your home state–can help solve the time crunch problem. But packing for a long road trip can be overwhelming, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Take that stressor away, too, and follow our tips on what to pack for long weekend road trips.
Prepare the technology
Provided by Walmart
Make sure you charge the iPads for everyone in the family. Absolutely don’t hit the road without a car charger. Trust us, a simple and inexpensive cigarette-lighter charger will be the best $8 you spend all trip, if you don’t already have one. GE 73613 cigarette lighter Y-Aadapter, $7.69, walmart.com
Make maps accessible
Provided by Best Buy
If you’re planning on needing your GPS for navigation, a cell phone car mount like this version can make it much safer and more convenient to eye the map to make sure you’re on track. GreatShield universal car mount holder for iPhone/smarphones/GPS, $7.99, bestbuy.com
New entertainment on screen
Before you leave, download a few new movies and games on your iPad, especially if you anticipate antsy children. Give each child a certain number of credits they can spend to buy new games. Get Cash Back at iTunes here.
Pack off-screen fun, too
Provided by Walmart
Some kids get sick watching a screen in the back seat, and it’s good for their little eyes to get a break, anyway. A fun game (with no little parts to lose and try to balance) that the whole family can play is the Guess Who board game. Kids of all ages can enjoy it. Guess Who? game, $8.23, walmart.com
Bring a snack bucket or cooler
Provided by Sears
Save big time and money by creating a plan to curb your munchies. Stock a bucket or cooler with your favorite treats (maybe even a few you don’t normally buy), water and an energy drink or two. Keep your food bin easily accessible in the back seat or somewhere within arm’s reach. Coleman Xtreme wheeled cooler, $49.99, sears.com
Plan an unplanned stop
Provided by Macy’s
You will probably want to stop for a rest, so make it fun. Plan a full meal, put it in a picnic basket and then hunt for the best impromptu stop along the way. Picnic Time Malibu Moka picnic basket, $89.99 on sale, macys.com
