Even if you plan on a trip of only a day or two, you never know when your vehicle could break down or your trip may be extended by road delays. Some of the essential food items you should have with you include bottled water, granola or trail mix and canned fruits. Camping ATV recommends bringing containers or aluminum foil to seal the food in to help preserve and keep it fresh. Avoid bringing any food that would need to be cooked as you may not have access to cooking utensils on the road.
Child care website Sitter City recommends bringing blankets and pillows along in case you need to camp out in the car for the night. Bring thick blankets to protect against the cold night air. Sleeping bags are convenient if there is no room to sleep in the car and everyone needs to sleep outside. A small tent can also be brought along for protection from the elements. A flashlight or candles with matches can help keep your camp area safely lit at night. A first aid kit that includes sterile adhesive bandages, sunscreen and pain relief capsules should also be taken along. Bring at least one change of clothes as well.
If you run into problems during your road trip, and you have children with you, it is a good idea to have things with you that can keep the children distracted and avoid having them panic. Board games that are age appropriate can help keep a child's attention, along with coloring books and comic books. Hand-held video games can keep children occupied for hours, but make sure you have a supply of extra batteries with you. Snack treats can also help to divert a child's attention.
