
Road trips are usually fun in the movies. Everyone gets all excited to spend a few days on the road, singing songs, stopping at shady (but cool-looking) diners, YOLO! Or discovering long-lost small towns. Moms in real life know that this road trip Hollywood fantasy is utter BS when there's a baby or kid involved. Unless the children happen to be the best and most agreeable travel companions with strong bladders, which if that is the case, way to go. But for most parents, that is a pipe dream. Keeping toddlers entertained in the day-to-day is hard enough. Add the confines of a moving, metal box? Forget it.
Don't worry too much. Yes, it may be hard, but there is hope to getting through a road trip with as minimal stress as possible. It comes down to proper planning. In the same way a map or trusty GPS system is needed to get to the destination, there are tools parents probably should have to get through the trip in one, sane piece. Whether they're tools of distraction, fun gadgets, or simply "road trip" hacks, pick the item (or items) that'll work best. It may actually prevent a meltdown or two and the family will get able to enjoy that diner after all -- if the team can make it there before stopping for yet another bathroom break. That is the only thing we can't really help with. But check out the finds we put together below!
Psst: If purchasing an item on this list, CafeMom may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.