The Harsh Truth About Taking Road Trips As an Adult

It's the season for road trips—that perfect time of the year for putting those hard-earned PTO hours to good use. If you happen to be single or married but without children, forget this article. There are no rules or suggestions for you. Well, except one: Enjoy it while you can. 

For the rest of us, the whimsical nature of road trips is a thing of the past. We have to painstakingly plan every moment. What used to be a capricious expedition into the unknown is now more of a NASA flight plan, with each miniscule detail calculated to the second. First, we establish a rough itinerary. Then, to be safe, we develop a contingency plan. We take stock of food provisions and medical supplies. Then, we plan some more.

What's originally intended to be an escape, quickly becomes the same old routine. Worse actually, because the stress levels are much higher when you're somewhere unfamiliar. So how can you prepare well enough for such an event, that you still have the capacity to appreciate the spirit of exploration? Here are some things to keep in mind:

• The obvious way to get a kid to shut up is to fill his/her mouth with something. Snacks are very important when hitting the road with children in tow. Portable and non-messy foods are ideal here. Some good items to bring: Boxes of raisins, string cheese, crackers, grapes, apple slices, juice boxes.
• To maintain a good schedule, you'll want to limit the number of bathroom breaks by limiting the amount of fluid intake. Make a game out of it. Like, "You can't take a drink until you see a blue car."
• Too few breaks can be equally as damaging to you sanity. Think realistically how often you'll need to stop to keep the kids from bouncing off the walls of the mini-van. Plan your schedule accordingly to this. 
• Messes are inevitable. Be prepared for this. Items like zip-lock bags, paper towels, easy-wipes and spill-proof cups are just a few examples. 
• The dollar store is your friend. There are so many great, affordable options available that will provide entertainment. Speaking of entertainment, here are some ideas:
1. Electronic Games
2. Have the kids trace your progress on a map. Buy an extra so they can draw on it with water soluble utensils. (This will also somewhat mitigate the "Are We There Yet?" cliche.)
3. Portable DVD players are your savior!
4. Bribe them with toys! Also, bring along some toy catalogs. This will keep them entertained for hours. Bring some glue sticks and construction paper so they can create a "Toy Wish List".
5. Don't underestimate the power of music. Perhaps some classical music will YOU in the mood while putting THEM to sleep?
6. Of course, there are the old fashioned ways to keep entertained. Games like I Spy, the License Plate Game and Slug Bug are always effective.