One of the joys of being a parent is enjoying days out with the kids. But day trips can also be a source of stress. Below are some tips to help you plan in advance and make the most of your days out.

Before you set off

Check the Weather

But don't assume it's totally accurate and pack for all eventualities. If it's supposed to be sunny take a sun hat for each child, but also bring an umbrella, light coat or plastic poncho for any quick rain showers.

Sort your spending money

Double check you have enough spending money on you. Even if you don't plan on spending anything, it is always a good idea to bring enough for food, drink and souveneirs just in case.

Take your camera

In the rush to get yourself and the kids ready and out the door, the little things are easily forgotten. Don't forget to put your camera in your bag before you set off if you want pictures to remind you of your day out.

Pack Snacks

Pack plenty food and drink, both for you and your children. If everyone is eating at regular intervals it is less likely that people will become cranky.

Pack Toys

Keeping children entertained on the journey there is a good idea, if you want to ensure everyone is in a good mood when you arrive at your destination. Activities such as colouring or drawing should keep your children entertained for a while, but bring a separate pack of crayons or pencils for each child to avoid inevitable arguments. Books are also great if you want some peace and quiet on the journey, although they are best avoided if your child suffers from travel sickness.

Nursery rhyme CDs are popular with parents for car journeys, but your older child may not appreciate hearing their younger sibling’s favourite CD over and over and over again (or vice versa). You’ll probably find hearing ‘5 Little Ducks Went Swimming One Day’ twenty times tests your patience too, so consider taking a storybook CD instead.

Pack a rucksack with an assortment of favourite toys. Avoid anything with small parts as these may get lost down the back of the seat. For long journeys, keep some of the toys in the boot and bring them out once the kids are starting to tire of the selection. It will help keep their interest for a little longer, and if you rotate the selection of toys every time you make a stop it will also keep the back seat from disappearing under a pile of clutter.

The Journey There

Make frequent stops

If the journey is going to be very long, stop every one to two hours if you can. It doesn’t have to be for long, even 10 minutes will suffice. Giving the children the opportunity to get out and stretch their legs will make them far less restless when they are travelling.

Play Games

Let’s face it, even the best behaved child isn’t going to sit quietly with a colouring in book for the entire journey so look into fun games you can play with the kids while you are driving. For example ‘Who am I?’ where players have to guess which celebrity you are by asking a series of yes or no questions. Games that get your children look out of the window are good too, as shifting their focus outside the car can help prevent or ease travel sickness. There are more travel game ideas here.

Bring a Blanket

If it is going to be a long journey, your children are young or you’ll be returning late in the day, bring a blanket. Children often become tired during car journeys and a blanket will make them more comfortable and more likely to settle for a nap.

Most of all just remember to relax and enjoy your day out!