Planning a family road trip? Let me guess – the thought of a long car ride with your sensory-sensitive kiddo makes you want to hide under a weighted blanket and never come out? Trust me, I’ve been there more times than I can count.

But here’s the thing – with some intentional planning and a well-stocked sensory kit, road trips can actually be fun. My daughter has significant sensory needs, and after years of trial and error (and yes, a few a lot of epic meltdowns along the way), I think I’m finally catching on to some life savers for sensory-friendly travel.

Today, I’m sharing some tips I’ve learned so far and all the essentials to create a road trip-friendly sensory kit so you can bypass some of the stress and instead enjoy that true crime podcast on your AirPods while you cruise the open roads. 

This post contains affiliate links to products I love and recommend. This adds no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my small business!

Understanding Your Child’s Road Trip-Friendly Sensory Challenges on the Road

Before we dive into packing tips, let’s talk about why family road trips can be particularly challenging for kids with sensory issues. And if you’re a highly sensitive parent, it can be incredibly challenging for you, too! The confined space, constant motion, engine noise, changing scenery, and inability to move freely can create the perfect storm for sensory overload in even a non-sensory sensitive child. Add in excitement, anxiety about the destination, lack of sleep, or disrupted routines, and it’s no wonder our sensitive kids majorly struggle on long car rides.

The KEY is recognizing that what others might deem “bad behavior” is often your child’s nervous system trying to cope with too much stimulation and alerting you to your child’s needs. Once I understood this about my daughter, everything changed. Instead of feeling frustrated, impatient, and full of dread, I started approaching our travels with empathy and preparation.

Creating the Ultimate Road Trip-Friendly Sensory Kit

Your sensory kit is going to be your secret weapon. Think of it as a portable calm-down corner that travels with you. I keep ours in a dedicated backpack that stays packed and ready to go – because let’s be honest, sometimes those spontaneous ice cream runs turn into longer adventures!

Sensory Toys and Tactile Items That Work Wonders

Start with items that provide comforting tactile input:

• Weighted lap pad – Absolutely game-changing for long car rides and flights. The gentle pressure can help your child feel grounded and calm when everything else feels chaotic.  I have a 5-pound version for me, as well. It’s my number one travel essential!

• Stress balls (various textures) – Pack both smooth and bumpy varieties. This variety pack checks all the boxes. Some kids crave smooth surfaces while others need more intense tactile input. Large pom poms are some of my favorites because they’re super cheap when you have to replace them, and they won’t hurt anyone when they inevitably get chunked at someone’s head because they’re chewing too loudly. 

• Squishy fidget toys – Mochi squishies are great sensory toys for kids who need something to squeeze and manipulate with their hands and are fun for imagination play, as well. Their low price point makes them great for surprising kids with a new one each day of the trip.

• Smooth stones or textured fabric pieces – For older kids and teens,  a little mesh bag filled with smooth rocks that your kid can shake around or move her fingers through is relaxing. (Please remain vigilant and do not give to young children due to the risk of choking.) For younger kids, fabric touch and feel books, tag security blankets, simple cut pieces of varying fabrics, or bean bags made of differing fabrics are a great addition to the sensory bag.  

• Soft travel blanket – Non-negotiable in our family! Even in summer, having that familiar smell,  weight, and texture within reach provides instant comfort. Choose one that’s small enough not to overwhelm your car space but large enough to provide that cozy feeling. My kids are tweens and teens now, and still bring their favorite travel blanket with them on every trip. 

Managing Sound and Noise

Noise can be a huge trigger during car rides:

• Noise-canceling headphones – Invest in good quality ones! The engine, road noise, siblings talking, or music can quickly lead to sensory overload. We got Apple Airpod Pros to help with my at the time tween daughter’s misophonia, and they’ve been worth every penny. They literally are a lifesaver on

• Earplugs – Perfect option for sound reduction when you don’t want to use the headphones. My daughter prefers these Curvd brand earplugs over the other popular brands. For kids aged 6-12, these Loop Engage earplugs help block unwanted noises without silencing everything around them. And for babies and toddlers, you can find lots of options here. 

 • Soft hat or ear warmers – Sometimes just having something soft covering the ears can help. This cute and cozy fleece headband also doubles as headphones for your kiddo!

• Playlist or audiobooks – Some kids actually need more auditory input, not less. Having their favorite songs or stories downloaded and ready gives you control over the auditory environment.

• White noise machines and apps – Great for kids who need a consistent background sound to feel calm. I love how this white noise machine doubles as a customizable nightlight. 

Items for Oral Sensory Needs

Many kids with sensory challenges need oral input during stress or excitement:

• Chewable jewelry or necklaces – Safe, wearable chewable jewelry options that won’t get lost in the car.

• Chewy toys (various textures) – Pack both smooth and bumpy chewy toy varieties. Some firm, some softer – what works one day might not work the next.

• Thick straws or chew tubes – Great chewy toy alternatives that provide the oral input they’re seeking.

Visual and Focus Tools

Keep hands busy and provide visual input with these essentials:

• Coloring books – A classic for a reason! They provide focused visual input while keeping hands busy. Perfect for both littles, teens, and adults!

• Sticker books – Less messy than crayons and equally engaging. These reusable sticker books are my favorite. 

• Drawing boards – These LCD drawing boards are lightweight, reusable, and mess-free for creative expression.

• Simple fidget toys with visual elements – Toys that light up, change colors, or have interesting visual patterns. These light-up fidget spinners are favorites. 

• Color-specific items – Consider the color of items you’re packing. Some kids are calmed by certain colors, while others might be overstimulated by bright or busy patterns.

Smart Packing Tips for Success

The way you organize your road trip-friendly sensory kit can make or break your trip:

• Keep essentials within reach – Everything your child might need should be accessible from their seat, not buried in a suitcase. I learned this the hard way during a memorable meltdown flying home from Denver.

• Use a dedicated sensory travel bag – This expandable tote bag is perfect! It’s easy to carry and has a large capacity for storing everything you need. It expands open completely and has 15 differnt compartments to keep you organized. Keep it packed and ready to go for spontaneous trips or around town.

• Pack doubles of favorites – If your child has a beloved squishy toy or chew item, pack a backup. Kids lose things, and gas station parking lots are not forgiving.

• Create a small, easy-access car bag – The most critical items should sit right next to your child in a small bag they can reach and open independently.

Creating Calm in the Chaos

Even with the best preparation, challenging moments will happen. The key is having sensory regulation strategies to help your child find calm again quickly. This is where understanding your child’s specific sensory needs becomes crucial.

Some kids need to increase sensory input when they’re overwhelmed – they might need to squeeze a stress ball, chew on something, or put on their weighted lap pad. Others need to decrease stimulation – dim lights, quiet voices, and smooth textures might help them reset.

Practice these calming strategies at home before your trip. The middle of a highway isn’t the time to discover that your child hates the new fidget toy you packed or that the backup chewable item has a texture they can’t tolerate.

Also, pay extra attention to physical needs. Travel means disrupted schedules and environments. Keeping snacks and drinks on hand will help combat the hangry. Allow for extra rest/nap time, too. Sensory-sensitive kiddos need us to help monitor and anticipate their needs before the overwhelm hits. 

Managing Meltdowns on the Road

Let’s be real – sometimes, despite all our preparation, meltdowns happen. And that’s okay! Having sensory needs doesn’t mean your family can’t travel; it just means you travel differently.

When a meltdown occurs, prioritize safety first. Pull over as soon as it’s safe to do so. Don’t try to power through or wait for the next rest stop if your child is in severe distress. 

Once stopped, resist the urge to talk too much or offer too many solutions at once. Sometimes kids need to work through their big feelings before they can accept comfort. Keep sensory items nearby, speak softly, and wait for cues about what might help.

Road Trip Ready: The Magic of Routine and Predictability

One thing that has dramatically improved our road trips is creating predictable routines around travel. For example, pack the sensory kit the night before. Make the same first stop for snacks. For my daughter, that means Starbucks as soon as we get through security at the airport or McDonald’s on a road trip. Listen to the same “travel playlist” for the first thirty minutes. You get the picture.

Predicability can be a great comfort for sensory-sensitive kids. Routines help signal to the nervous system that even though we’re doing something different, some things stay the same. It’s like giving a sensory system a roadmap for what to expect.

Wrapping Up: Road Trip-Friendly Sensory Kit Ready!

Planning a sensory-friendly road trip might feel overwhelming at first, but remember – you’re the expert on your child. You know what soothes them, what excites them, and what sends them over the edge. Trust that knowledge, pack thoughtfully, and give yourself grace.

Our family’s best memories have come from trips that didn’t go according to plan but taught us something new about flexibility, patience, and adventure. Your child’s sensory needs aren’t something to overcome – they’re just one part of who they are, and with the right preparation, they don’t have to limit your family’s adventures.

So make that road trip-friendly sensory kit checklist, throw in an extra stress ball and favorite toys, and hit the road. And don’t forget the snacks! 

The post My Favorite Items to Complete Your Road Trip-Friendly Sensory Kit | 2026 appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

When I first told family we were planning a trip to Europe with my then 9-year-old daughter, the reactions ranged from “You’re brave!” to barely concealed looks of concern. My daughter has Tourette’s syndrome and misophonia, which means certain sounds can send her into a spiral, and stressful situations trigger an increase in her tics and meltdowns. But here’s what I’ve learned over three years of family adventures: traveling with neurodivergent kids isn’t about avoiding challenges—it’s about preparing for them with love, patience, and the right tools.

Yes, we’ve had meltdowns in airport security lines, in subways, and crammed in crowded elevators when the stimuli became too much. But we’ve also discovered that despite the inevitable struggles, traveling with a neurodivergent child can be incredibly rewarding for families.

This guide isn’t written by a medical professional or therapist—it’s written by a mom who’s learned through trial, error, and a lot of creativity. Whether your child has misophonia, autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, or other neurodivergent traits, I hope these practical tips help make traveling with your neurodivergent child a little smoother and a lot less daunting.

This post contains affiliate links to products I love and recommend. This adds no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my small business!

Plan Ahead with These Pre-Trip Travel Tips

The secret sauce to successful neurodivergent family travel starts weeks before you leave home. I’ve learned that my daughter thrives when she knows what to expect, so to help prepare her, we create visual itineraries together using pictures from the internet. We include photos of hotel rooms, the airplane we’ll fly on, the airplane seating chart, photos of any other transportation we’ll be using, and the attractions we’ll visit. This isn’t just about logistics—it’s about building excitement while reducing anxiety.

Social stories have been game-changers for us. When she was younger, I would create simple narratives about what our travel day would look like: “First, we’ll go through security, then we’ll get a snack, then we’ll wait at our gate, and then we’ll board the plane.” For kids with autism or anxiety, this predictability can mean the difference between a smooth departure and a meltdown before you even leave home.

 If your child needs accommodations during travel or is traveling with an emotional or psychological support animal, get a note from your doctor detailing the accommodations needed. 

Packing Essentials for Neurodivergent Families

Our packing strategy has evolved into what I call “controlled chaos management.” The key is having the right tools accessible when you need them most. These are my must-have items when traveling with a neurodivergent child:

Headphones and Earplugs

Noise-canceling headphones and noise-reduction earplugs (my daughter prefers these CURVD earplugs over the Loop ones) are non-negotiable in our family—they’ve saved us from sensory overload countless times in airports, on planes, and in busy tourist areas. I recommend this JBL kids’ headphone version with volume limiters for hearing safety. And if you’re traveling with little bitty kids, these baby/toddler-sized headphones are lifesavers.

Weighted Blankets

Weighted lap pads are AMAZING for long flights, car rides, and sleeping in unfamiliar places. I even have one for my anxious, overwhelmed myself. They provide proprioceptive input that helps with self-regulation, and they’re much more portable than full-size weighted blankets. 

Fidgets and More

A compact sensory kit saved us countless times when she was younger. Ours included a fidget cube, silly putty, and a Pop-It. Everything fits in a ziplock bag for easy airport security screening. And on road trips, all my kids loved the Melissa & Doug reusable sticker pad books for lightweight entertainment that doesn’t require screens or sound.

Comfort Items

Don’t overlook comfort items. A small travel pillow that transforms into a stuffed animal is both space-saving and comforting. Bring a travel-sized bottle of safe, kid-friendly pillow spray that reminds them of home.  Also, a favorite hoodie or sweater can be extra comforting on long travel days. These seemingly simple items often make the biggest difference in helping neurodivergent kids feel secure

Technology

Technology can be your best friend when used strategically. Download movies, games, audiobooks, and calming apps before you travel to help keep your child entertained during long travel days or delays. I always pack extra charging cables and a portable battery pack because nothing derails a careful plan like a dead tablet during a layover. Don’t rely on airplane WiFi or international data plans when your child needs their comfort content.

Medication

Don’t forget the practical stuff either. If your child takes medication, bring extra along, just to be safe. An unexpected overnight travel delay can happen, and you don’t want to find yourself without necessary medications. Also, ask your doctor about the possibility of prescribing “as-needed” medication that could help your child with increased anxiety during travel. 

Transportation Strategies for Traveling With A Neurodivergent Child

Flying with neurodivergent kids requires some advance planning. Most airlines offer accommodations if you request them ahead of time and have a note from your doctor—things like pre-boarding, aisle seats for kids who need to move around, or assistance navigating security. TSA has a program called TSA Cares that provides additional screening assistance for travelers with disabilities. The Department of Transportation also provides this in-depth guide to navigating airline travel for people with disabilities.   

For traveling with a neurodivergent child on a long car ride, frequent breaks aren’t just helpful—they’re essential. Plan stops every hour or two, even if it extends your travel time. Fast food restaurants with play areas or rest stops with walking paths can be lifesavers for kids who need to move their bodies to regulate.

Public transportation can be tricky with sensory sensitivities. The crowded, often hot train cars in the subway were A LOT for my daughter, but we’ve developed strategies. We do our best to avoid rush hour travel time, come prepared with water and snacks for her, use noise-canceling headphones, and always have an early exit plan if things become overwhelming.

Accommodation Considerations When Traveling With a Neurodivergent Child

Hotel selection matters more than you might think. I look for properties with thicker walls, away from elevators and ice machines. Many hotels will note these preferences in your reservation if you call ahead. When she was young, we immediately set up her space with her comfort items, snacks, and a drink, and planned to stay put for a while, so she could acclimate. 

Maintaining routines while traveling is challenging but crucial. We try to keep meal times consistent to regulate her blood sugar and preserve bedtime rituals even in unfamiliar places. I always pack a white noise machine and a weighted lap blanket because new sleeping environments can be particularly difficult for neurodivergent kids.

Don’t underestimate the power of familiar foods. While trying local cuisine is part of travel’s joy, having backup snacks your child enjoys can prevent hunger-induced meltdowns. I always take her shopping pre-trip to pick out her favorite travel snacks. 

Daily Adventure Management

The key to successful daily adventures when traveling with a neurodivergent child is building flexibility into your plans. We have a non-negotiable scheduled downtime each afternoon between activities. No one is too old for naptime! And I always have a “Plan B” if our original idea becomes overwhelming. We don’t expect to do every activity together, and sometimes it’s best if my husband and I split up the kids and take them to do separate activities. Museums during school hours are usually less crowded than on weekends. Many attractions offer sensory-friendly hours or quiet spaces—research these options in advance.

Timing is everything. My daughter does best with morning activities when her energy and coping skills are fresh. By afternoon, we’re often back at our accommodation for rest time before going out for dinner and whatever we feel up to that evening. This might mean missing some sights, but that’s totally ok with us. It ensures the experiences we do have are positive ones.

Crowds can be the biggest challenge for many neurodivergent kids. We’ve learned to identify escape routes immediately upon arriving anywhere new. Knowing where the nearest bathroom, quiet space, or exit is located gives both my daughter and me peace of mind. Sometimes just knowing we can leave if needed is enough to help us stay.

When Things Go Sideways: Crisis Management with Compassion

Despite your best planning, meltdowns will happen when you’re traveling with a neurodivergent child. I’ve learned that my response in these moments sets the tone for how quickly we can recover. Stay calm, validate your child’s feelings, and don’t worry about staring strangers. Most people are more understanding than you’d expect, especially when they see you handling the situation with patience and love.

Finding your village while traveling means connecting with other parents who understand. Online neurodivergent parenting groups often have location-specific advice, and many cities have autism-friendly resources that locals can recommend. Don’t be afraid to ask hotel staff, museum employees, or other service workers for help—most are trained to assist families with different needs.

Remember that self-care isn’t selfish when you’re traveling with neurodivergent kids. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so build in moments for yourself, too. Sometimes that means ordering room service instead of exploring another restaurant, and that’s perfectly okay.

Building Confidence: Growing Through Travel with a Neurodivergent Child

The most beautiful part of traveling with my neurodivergent daughter has been watching her confidence grow with each new experience she successfully navigates. Travel has taught her that she can handle new situations, that the world is full of people who want to help, and that different doesn’t mean less capable.

Every family’s journey will look different, and what works for us might need modification for your unique situation. The goal isn’t perfect trips—it’s creating positive memories while building your child’s confidence and coping skills. Some of our most treasured family stories come from the moments when things didn’t go according to plan, but we figured it out together.

Traveling with a neurodivergent child requires more preparation, more patience, and more flexibility than typical family trips. But the rewards—seeing your child’s face light up at new discoveries, watching them develop problem-solving skills, and creating shared adventures—make every challenging moment worth it. Your neurodivergent child deserves to see the world, and with the right preparation and mindset, they absolutely can.

Start small if you need to, celebrate every success, and remember that you’re not just creating vacation memories—you’re building life skills that will serve your child well beyond your travels. The world becomes a little more inclusive every time families like ours show up, and that’s a beautiful thing indeed.

The post Traveling with a Neurodivergent Child: How To Reduce the Vacation Stress appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

Picture this: You’re scrolling through Instagram, seeing all those perfect family vacation photos, and thinking, “That looks amazing, but how do you actually pull off a multigenerational trip with everyone from your 5-year-old cousin to your 85-year-old grandpa?” Planning a multigenerational family trip can feel like trying to organize a flash mob – it seems impossible until you know the right steps. But here’s the thing: multigenerational travel is actually one of the most rewarding adventures you can take, creating those once-in-a-lifetime moments where three generations are laughing together over dinner and everyone comes home with inside jokes that’ll last for years.

The secret isn’t avoiding the challenges that come with different ages, energy levels, and interests – it’s planning smart so everyone from your adventure-seeking teenager to your comfort-loving mom can have an amazing time. Plus, let’s be real, having grandparents along often means someone else is hanging with the baby during naptime (just saying).

Ready to become the family trip planning hero? Let’s dive into 13 game-changing tips that’ll help you pull off the ultimate multigenerational family adventure.

This post may contain affiliate links to products and services I use and recommend. These come at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my small business!

1. Start Planning the Family Adventure Early

Let’s be honest – getting everyone in your family to agree on pizza toppings is hard enough, let alone a vacation destination. But here’s the secret sauce: start the conversation at least six months to a year ahead of time. Create a family group chat and throw around destination ideas.

Do you have your sights set on caravaning on a cross-country road trip, taking a Disney vacation, sailing on a Caribbean cruise, or flying across the ocean? Or maybe it’s something smaller, like a weekend lake trip or a cabin in the woods. Getting everyone on the same page is key to starting the planning off right. 

Pro tip: Create a simple Google form survey with questions about mobility needs, must-do activities, and deal-breakers. Trust me, you want to know ahead of time that Uncle Bob can’t do stairs or that your 16-year-old niece will mutiny if there’s no WiFi.

2. Choose Destinations the Entire Family Will Enjoy

This is where you channel your inner cruise director and find that magical place where your 8-year-old and your 80-year-old can both have a blast. Think beyond the obvious theme parks (though they work, too) and consider destinations with natural wow-factors.

National parks are golden for this – Yellowstone’s geysers fascinate toddlers and geology enthusiasts alike, while the hiking trails offer some paved paths for wheelchairs and strollers. Cities with good public transportation, like San Francisco or Washington D.C., let you hop between kid-friendly museums and sophisticated cultural sites without wearing anyone out. 

If you’re setting your sights outside the States, consider destinations like Athens, with its seemingly endless cultural experiences and natural beauty. And did I mention there are cats everywhere?! This makes for a perfect balance and offering of activities for every family member. Plus, you’ll also find it more affordable than many other European cities. 

Beach destinations or cruises are absolute winners because they naturally accommodate different energy levels. The kids can build sandcastles and snorkel close to shore while grandparents read under umbrellas, and the adventurous can enjoy some other outdoor excursion, like deep-sea fishing or surf lessons.

If you’re planning an unforgettable winter vacation, a ski trip is perfect for the entire family. Whether you want to hit the slopes all day, enjoy a day of relaxation in the cozy lodge with hot cocoa and a book, or a mixture of both, it’s an ideal trip for multiple generations.

3. Book Accommodations That Bring Everyone Together

Forget cramped hotel rooms where you’re all stepping on each other’s toes. VRBO is your best friend for multigenerational trips. Look for places with multiple bedrooms, at least two bathrooms (because someone always needs to go “right now”), and common areas where everyone can gather.

A house with a big kitchen is worth its weight in gold – you can cook at home to accommodate dietary restrictions, save money on meals, and give the family chefs a chance to show off. Plus, there’s something magical and cozy about three generations cooking together, even if it’s just cinnamon toast and scrambled eggs for breakfast.

If you decide to go the hotel route, book adjoining rooms or suites. Many hotels offer family packages that include connecting rooms at discounted rates. Just make sure to call ahead and explain your situation – hotel staff are usually incredibly helpful when they understand you’re trying to keep a multigenerational group happy.

4. Plan for Different Energy Levels and Mobility Needs

Here’s where your multigenerational trip planning superpowers really shine. You need to think like a logistics coordinator and a diplomat rolled into one. Research accessibility options at every destination – and I mean really research, not just glance at the website.

Call ahead to attractions and ask specific questions: How long is the walk from the parking?  Is there a shuttle available? Are there benches along the way? Can wheelchairs and strollers navigate the terrain? Most places are happy to provide detailed information when they know it’ll help make your visit successful.

Build buffer time into every activity. If the museum website says it takes two hours to see, plan for three. This gives your slower walkers time to keep up and prevents that stressed feeling when someone needs a bathroom break right when you’re supposed to be at the next attraction. And if you’re finished in an hour, it gives you time to hit up that coffee shop you passed on the way there. 

5. Set a Realistic Budget and Discuss Financial Arrangements

Money conversations are about as fun as root canals, but they’re absolutely necessary. Different generations often have very different financial situations and expectations about vacation spending. Your bougie brother might want to splurge on nice dinners, while your twenty-five-year-old cousin is counting every dollar.

Have an honest family discussion about the multigenerational trip budget before you book anything. Decide upfront who’s covering what – are accommodations, gas, and food split evenly? Is everyone responsible for snacks for their own family? How are we reimbursing each other for group purchases? Apps like Splitwise can help track shared expenses throughout the trip. 

If you’re worried about getting stiffed by that one family member who never seems to remember to pay you back, prepare to have a serious conversation before or find a way to avoid that situation altogether. Or better yet, book a cruise or all-inclusive resort where everyone books their own reservation, and the cost is up front. It will save you a lot of headaches in the long run. 

If your family has drastically different financial situations, yet this multi-generational getaway is important to everyone, consider creating a family vacation fund where everyone contributes what they can afford. This takes the awkwardness out of individual expenses and ensures no one feels left out of activities due to cost. But this does require family members with a generous bank account to work out. 

For help with creating and tracking your travel budget, check out my free resources below!

6. Build in Flexibility and Downtime

If I’ve learned anything from family vacations, it’s that the moment you create an ironclad itinerary, someone will get sick, the weather will turn, or Great Grandma will decide she absolutely must visit that quirky roadside attraction you just passed. Embrace the chaos!

Plan major activities for mornings when everyone’s fresh, and leave afternoons looser. This gives you flexibility to extend something that’s going really well or pivot when someone needs a break. Build in “choose your own adventure” blocks where different family members can split up based on interests or energy levels.

And my favorite bit of advice is to always schedule in naptime if at all possible. Think your kids are too old for naps? Think again, my friend. Having time for naps during a vacation will save your sanity.

Remember, you’re not running a military operation – you’re creating memories. Some of the best family stories come from the unplanned moments when you had to improvise. That time you all got caught in the rain and ended up playing cards in a random café for three hours? That’ll be the story everyone tells for years.

7. Plan Activities That Encourage Multigenerational Bonding

This is where the magic happens! Look for activities that naturally bring different generations together. Cooking classes are fantastic because grandparents can share their techniques while kids get messy, and everyone learns something new.

Storytelling opportunities are gold mines for multigenerational bonding. Visit a local historical site and ask grandparents to share what life was like when they were young. Kids are usually fascinated by stories of “the old days” when told in the right setting.

Consider low-key competitive activities like mini golf or board game cafés. There’s something hilarious about watching your dignified grandfather get intensely competitive about putt-putt while your teenager realizes they’re actually enjoying spending time with “old people.”

8. Designate “Generation Time” Alongside Group Time

While togetherness is beautiful, sometimes we all need a break from the whole family during a multigenerationalonal trip. Can I get an amen???

Differing interests and activity levels mean that different activities are important. Plan some activities where similar generations can hang out together. Let the teenagers explore the local shopping district while the adults visit a winery. Let the kids spend an afternoon at the house playing video games and vegging. And please don’t expect the grandparents to be babysitters the entire trip. Let them enjoy their downtime, too. 

This isn’t about leaving people out – it’s about recognizing that a 15-year-old and a 75-year-old might have different ideas about what constitutes a fun afternoon. And recognizing that we introverts need some recharge time, if you don’t want to deal with our passive-aggressive anger on the trip home. 

9. Pack Smart for All Ages

Your packing strategy needs to account for everyone from the overpacker (probably your mom) to the chronic underpacker (definitely your teenage son). Create shared packing lists and designate different people to handle different categories.

Pack a family first aid kit that goes beyond basic Band-Aids. Include medications for motion sickness, headaches, and any prescription medications that family members might forget. Throw in some must-have items like wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and snacks – trust me, you’ll be the hero when someone gets hangry.

For entertainment, think beyond individual devices. Pack card games and travel-sized board games. A simple deck of cards can save you during a delayed flight or a rainy afternoon.

10. Establish Communication and Meeting Points

With a large group, someone will inevitably wander off or get turned around (I’m looking at you, Dad). Establish clear communication protocols before you leave home. Make sure everyone (including the kids and teens) has everyone else’s phone numbers, and create a family group chat for easy coordination.

Set regular check-in times and meeting points. “We’ll meet at the fountain at 3 PM” works better than “let’s meet up later.” If you’re in a large attraction like a theme park or museum, identify specific landmarks as meeting points in case anyone gets separated.

Consider getting those family walkie-talkies for places with spotty cell service, especially if you’re roadtripping. Yes, you’ll feel like you’re leading a summer camp group, but they’re surprisingly effective and fun!

11. Consider Transportation Carefully

Transportation can make or break a multigenerational trip. Flying with a large group requires serious coordination – book seats together well in advance and consider who sits where. Put the most patient family members next to the fidgety kids, and make sure anyone who needs assistance boarding is properly accommodated.

For road trips, think comfort over speed. Plan extra stops, pack pillows and blankets, and load up on entertainment. The grandparents might need to stretch their legs more frequently, while the kids will need bathroom breaks at the most inconvenient possible moments.

When exploring a destination, research public transportation options in advance. Many cities offer family or group passes that make buses and trains affordable for large groups. Just make sure the system is accessible for any family members who have mobility concerns.

12. Document the Journey for Everyone

Don’t let all the photo-taking fall on one person during the multigenerational trip. Assign different family members as the designated photographer for different parts of the trip. Get the grandkids an old school Polaroid camera – they’ll capture hilarious perspectives of shared experiences that adults would never think of.

Create a shared photo album where everyone can upload their pictures throughout the trip. I love Family Album for this. Everyone can upload, share, and add comments and reactions with the privacy that social media doesn’t afford.   Plus, you can easily create photo books and order prints directly from Family Album, creating perfect trip souvenirs. 

Consider starting a family travel journal where different people write about their favorite part of each day. Years later, you’ll love reading different generations’ perspectives on the same experiences. Reliving memories is almost as sweet as making memories. 

13. Prepare for the Unexpected

Murphy’s Law applies especially to multigenerational family vacations – anything that can go wrong will go wrong at the most inconvenient moment possible. Research medical facilities at your destination and make sure everyone packs their health insurance cards. 

Keep copies of important documents (IDs, prescriptions, emergency contacts) in multiple places. Have a plan for what to do if someone gets sick or injured. This isn’t being pessimistic – it’s being prepared so you can handle whatever comes up without panic.

Pack a “crisis kit” to carry each day, with things like an extra phone charger, basic medications and first aid supplies, snacks, and even some cash in small bills. When the inevitable mini-crisis hits, you’ll be ready to handle it smoothly.

Wrapping Up: Multigenerational Trip Tips

Planning a successful multigenerational family trip isn’t about creating the perfect vacation – it’s about creating the perfect opportunity for everyone in the family to make memories together. Sure, there will be moments when you question your sanity (usually when three generations are arguing about restaurant choices), but there will also be magical moments that remind you why you did this in the first place.

The truth is, these trips become more precious as time goes on. The photos of three generations laughing together, the inside jokes that develop, the stories that get retold at every family gathering – these are the real treasures. Your kids will forever remember the time Great Grandpa taught them to play poker in the hotel lobby.

Yes, multigenerational travel takes more planning, more patience, and probably more Advil than your typical vacation. But the payoff is extraordinary. You’re not just taking a trip – you’re weaving your family story together in a way that only happens when you venture out of your normal routines and explore the world together.

So start planning that multi-generational trip with the family. Send that first group text. Book that vacation rental with enough bedrooms for everyone. Trust me, in five years, no one will remember the travel delays or the arguments about who gets to control the remote. They’ll remember the laughter, the memorable experiences, and the incredible feeling of being part of something bigger than themselves.

Ready to Start Planning?

Have you taken a multigenerational trip? Share your best tips and funniest stories in the comments below – we’d love to hear how other families make it work! And if you’re in the planning stages, bookmark this post and let us know how your adventure turns out.

The post 13 Tips for Planning the Perfect Multigenerational Trip With the Family appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

Spring travel season is upon us, and we all know what that means – trying to pack for weather that has more mood swings than a teenager. One minute you’re basking in sunshine perfection, and the next, you’re caught in a surprise downpour looking like you just participated in an impromptu wet t-shirt contest (not the vibe we’re going for on family vacations, trust me).

As a self-proclaimed family travel veteran who has survived numerous spring break disasters (including that time in Galveston when I confidently packed only tanks, shorts, and swimsuits for sunny beach days and ended up swaddled in beach towels), I’ve compiled THE ultimate list of spring travel essentials that’ll have you gliding through airports and spontaneous adventures.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I might earn a tiny commission if you purchase through them at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting my small business

Spring Weather Travel Essentials: For When Mother Nature Can’t Make Up Her Mind

The beauty of spring travel is embracing the dilemma of not knowing if you’ll need shorts or a sherpa on the same day. As a Texas girl, I know the importance of being prepared for any kind of weather. Yesterday it was 38 degrees outside, and today it’s 81. Hello, bipolar Spring weather! Be prepared with these essentials:

1. Packable and stylish sun hat (because sunburn is the souvenir nobody asked for)
2. Packable rain jacket (because spring showers are sneaky little beasts that wait until you’re exactly 1.2 miles from shelter)
3. Family set of rain ponchos– (Ever been caught off-guard in a downpour at Disney World? Just me? )
4. Lightweight Merino wool layers (nature’s temperature-regulating miracle that doesn’t get stinky after multiple wears – this is a travel GAME CHANGER if you’re packing light)
5. Polarized sunglasses (for when spring sunshine decides to blind you without warning)
6. Travel-size sunscreen stick and spray sunscreen (because applying liquid sunscreen to squirming children is basically an Olympic sport, and we can’t skimp on sun protection)
7. Windproof travel umbrella (tiny enough for your bag, mighty enough for those spring gusts)
8. Bug-repellent wipes with picardin (spring awakens the bugs, too, unfortunately)-
9. Sponsored Quick-dry shoes (nothing kills vacation vibes faster than squelchy footwear all day)
10. Lip balm with SPF (don’t make chapped lips the unofficial souvenir of spring break)-
11. Pop-up shelter/sun shade (for beach/park days when the weather can’t make up its mind)-
12. Packable picnic blanket (because wet butt syndrome is a real travel buzzkill)-

Spring weather can be crazy, y’all. If your busy travel days include outdoor activities (get those kids outside!), being prepared is going to give you peace of mind AND save you money on those last-minute emergency purchases, so you don’t get swindled at the hotel gift shop. 

Go-To Spring Travel Essentials

Some items go the distance for any kind of travel experience. These go-to travel essentials are my top picks for all your everyday travel needs:

1. Capsule Travel Wardrobe (because you really don’t need 14 outfit changes- this is KEY to packing light)
2. Supportive neck pillow (because a crick in your neck from a floppy head and exhaustion are the other options- this travel pillow actually supports my long neck!)
3. Sponsored Portable phone charger (for when your battery decides to die at the WORST possible moment)
4. Reusable, insulated, leak-proof water bottle (hydration all day minus being gouged $8 a bottle at the airport)
5. Wrinkle-release spray (because who has time for ironing on vacation? Not me! Plus, it’s great for freshening clothes when you re-wear them)
6. Noise-canceling Bluetooth earbuds (for when you need a mental vacation from your vacation but don’t want to spend an arm and a leg on sound quality)
7. Crossbody anti-theft bag (keep your goods close with the added benefit of looking cute)
8. Sink laundry kit (for those “oops, I spilled everything on my only clean shirt” moments)
9. Moisturizing hand sanitizer (because those flu germs are still lingering this time of year)
10. Travel humidifier– (nothing guarantees I can’t breathe out of my nose like a big ol’ dose of springtime pollen)
11. Allergy medicine (bring whatever you might need because different climates mean different allergens!)

Most of these spring travel essentials are my go-to’s for every season, with of course, some weather-appropriate substitutions in the capsule wardrobe. Making a checklist note on your phone with these must-have travel essentials will keep you organized and prepared for travel in spring or any season.

Spring Travel Essentials: Luggage Options

Let’s be real – nothing kills vacation vibes faster than wrestling an overstuffed suitcase that’s one sock away from a zipper explosion. The trick to spring travel is luggage that can handle Mother Nature’s mood swings without requiring you to check a small U-Haul’s worth of bags. I’ve got a variety of luggage options, depending on how much space you need. Here are my top spring travel essentials luggage picks:

1. Expandable, spinner carry-on luggage (for those longer trips when you start with good packing intentions but end up shopping at every cute boutique you find)
2. Weather-resistant packable backpack (to save your change of clothes, phone, and snacks from certain death on your unexpectedly rainy hike)
3. Lightweight duffel with shoe compartment (It’s the perfect size for shorter weekend trips– and because nobody wants their clean clothes smelling like the hiking trail you conquered yesterday)
4. Rolling garment travel bag  (keeps your cute spring dresses and blouses wrinkle-free with room for shoes and all our other stuff)
5. Packable tote bag (folds into nothing but expands enough to carry 12 souvenirs and that extra jacket you suddenly needed)
6. Sponsored Compression packing cubes (because making space in your suitcase requires muscle)
7. Clear toiletry organizer (speeds through security AND prevents your shampoo from baptizing your entire suitcase contents. Ever had T-gel shampoo explode in your bag? Trust me, it will only happen once.)
8. Hanging toiletry kit (hotel bathroom counters were apparently designed for Polly Pocket, not a human family of teenagers with 4 different sets of toiletries)
9. Drawstring laundry bag (separates the “still wearable” from the “dear god, please quarantine these immediately” clothes)
10. Insulated cooler backpack (doubles as a day pack AND keeps those picnic goodies fresh – the multitasking icon we needed!)-

I personally travel as light as possible, with some exceptions for road trips when we have more luggage space and NEEEED that cooler back full of beverages and snacks because long car rides will eventually result in hangry humans.

Spring Travel Essentials For the Kiddos: Because Their Happiness = Your Sanity

Traveling with kids means doing whatever you have to do so as not to lose your mind during your spring adventures. This is not the time for strict screen time. 6 hours of Bluey in the car? You betcha. As a seasoned mom of 3 kids, be prepared with everything you need to keep your kiddo entertained during the actual travel to and from your destination. 

1. Twistable neck pillow (nap time anywhere = sanity everywhere)
2. Activity booklet (if you’re going to limit screentime, you better have a backup!)
3. Snack bento box (hangry prevention system that has saved countless public meltdowns for children and adults alike)
4. Insulated, leak-proof sippy cup (hydration without the dramatics of spilled water everywhere)
5. Small stuffed travel buddy (emotional support that attaches to your kid so you don’t lose it? GENIUS)
6. Kid-sized headphones handband (sanity and comfort for the never-ending car ride)
7. Mess-free markers (creative outlet that won’t stain the hotel sheets and lead to uncomfortable conversations with housekeeping)
8. First-aid kit (because band-aids have magical healing powers, even for invisible owies)-
9. Inflatable booster seat with travel pouch (regulation-approved, storage-friendly, and prevents the “but I can’t see out the window!” complaints)-

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the success of a family getaway rises and falls on the kids. So do whatever you’ve got to do to keep it peaceful for your own sanity and enjoyment. You deserve it! I mean, you’re the one paying for it. 

Spring Travel Essentials: Baby and Toddler Travel Gear

Let’s have a moment of silence for all the parents who thought, “We’ll pack light for the baby,” and then proceeded to transform their mid-size sedan into what appears to be a fully-stocked Babies ‘R’ Us (RIP). 

Nothing tests your packing skills quite like traveling with humans who are somehow simultaneously tiny AND require enough equipment that you look like you’re prepared for a NASA mission. After three kids and countless “why did I bring this/why didn’t I bring that” moments, here are the baby and toddler spring travel essentials that actually deserve precious luggage real estate:

1. Silicone bibs with food catchers (because spaghetti stains on vacation outfits are the souvenir NOBODY wants)
2. Portable sound machine (turns any hotel room/grandma’s house/airport bathroom into naptime central)-
3. Inflatable bathtub (hotel sinks are slippery death traps [my husband says I’m exaggerating] )-
4. Travel bottle warmer (for when your tiny dictator demands milk at exactly 98.6°F)-
5. Foldable travel high chair (attaches to regular chairs and prevents your toddler from becoming one with the restaurant floor)
6. Lightweight stroller with ACTUAL recline (that $20 umbrella stroller is cute until your toddler needs a nap and turns into a human noodle)
7. Baby carrier that doesn’t destroy your back (for when you need your hands free to do literally anything else)
8. Weatherproof stroller cover (because whatever you do, don’t wake a sleeping baby)
9. Emergency toy stash (new dollar store finds wrapped like presents = 15 minutes of peace when you’re about to lose your mind)

The travel milestone I’m most proud of? The time I managed a solo flight with a preschooler, a toddler, AND a screaming baby. Boarding the plane with a flailing baby while simultaneously trying to fold up my stroller, carry the giant diaper bag, and help my other two with their rolling luggage was a DISASTER. By some miracle, I didn’t totally lose my sh%$, AND the sweetest flight attendant took mercy on me by bringing me a complimentary bottle of wine and free snacks for the girls. Even terrible moments can turn into great travel memories. 

Wrapping Up: Spring Travel Essentials

Remember: A well-packed spring break bag is like having a really good therapist – it helps you stay prepared for unexpected emotional weather, gives you options when things go sideways, and ultimately lets you enjoy the moment instead of stressing about what you forgot.

Now go forth and conquer that spring vacation with the confidence of someone who won’t be caught in a downpour wearing white linen pants and no umbrella, ahem. 

The post Top Spring Travel Essentials: Family Spring Break Travel Guide, 2026 appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

Surviving a hotel stay with kids can feel like trying to contain a circus in a shoebox. Between the constant snack requests, the mystery of where everyone’s shoes disappeared to, and the eternal question of “How did they already use ALL the towels???” – it’s enough to make any parent wonder why we don’t just vacation in our own home.

But here’s the thing: hotel stays with kids don’t have to be a stress fest that drains both your sanity and your wallet. After years of trial and error (and yes, that one very questionable hotel ), I’ve gathered some game-changing hotel hacks to make your family travel so much smoother and save you money!

Whether you’re trying to stretch your vacation budget, keep your crew comfortable, or just maintain a shred of parental dignity while living out of suitcases – I’ve got you covered. These easy tips will help you transform your hotel room into a family-friendly home base without breaking the bank or losing your mind in the process.

So grab a coffee (or whatever beverage helps you cope with travel planning), and let’s dive into these sanity-saving hotel hacks for families that actually work.

This post contains affiliate links that may earn me a small commission but come at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my small business!

My Favorite Hotel Hacks for Families:

Here are my top hotel hacks for families who are traveling with kids:

1. Book During Off-Peak Times

Business hotels often slash rates on weekends and during non-peak seasons, with savings up to 30-40%. For example, a room that costs $200/night during the week might drop to $140 on weekends. Look for hotels in business districts of major cities – they’re usually well-maintained but desperate for weekend guests.

Bonus tip: Book Sunday night stays for extra savings, as these are typically the slowest nights for hotels.

2. Join Hotel Loyalty Programs

Don’t wait until you’ve planned multiple trips – sign up before your first stay. Even basic memberships often include:

• Free WiFi (saving $12-15 per day)
• Late checkout options
• Points on every stay
• Member-exclusive rates
• Room upgrade eligibility
• Gain access to lounges after earning status

For example, Hilton Honors members can use a digital key through their app, choose their exact room, and often get free breakfast even at hotels that typically charge.

3. Request Corner Rooms

Corner rooms typically offer 20-30% more space than standard rooms and are typically quieter, due to being farther away from elevators. 

These rooms often feature extra windows and better views, plus they share fewer walls with neighbors – perfect for families worried about noise. Some corner rooms even have space for a rollaway bed without feeling cramped.

You may have to pay extra for the corner room, but if you’re part of a hotel loyalty program, you may receive the upgraded room for free. You can request the room when you call to book or ask if they have one available when you’re checking in. 

4. Pack Magnetic Hooks

These inexpensive magnetic hooks (usually under $10 for a pack) can transform your room’s storage capabilities. They work on any metal surface, including most hotel room doors, air conditioning units, and fridges. You can use them for:

• Creating a drying station for swimsuits and towels
• Hanging backpacks and purses
• Organizing outerwear 

5. Bring a Portable Sound Machine

A compact sound machine can be the difference between a good night’s sleep and a disaster. Even if you don’t sleep with one at home, you’ll want to drown out any road or hallway noise. Choose one that:

• Runs on batteries or USB power
• Offers multiple sound options (white noise, rain, fan sounds)
• Is lightweight (under 1 pound)

Pro tip: Download a backup white noise app on your phone as a backup. I love the White Noise Ambience Lite app! It’s free and has tons of sounds to choose from. 

6. Use Packing Cubes as Drawer Organizers

Transform standard hotel drawers into organized spaces for each family member:

• Use different colored cubes for each person
• Designate specific cubes for types of clothing (swim gear, pajamas, etc.)
• Keep one empty cube for dirty laundry
• Use smaller cubes for socks and underwear

7. Request a Mini-Fridge and Microwave

Most hotels provide fridges and microwaves free in the rooms, but some only provide them upon request. 

• Request during booking AND confirm at check-in
• Confirm the fridge has a freezer section before buying cartons of ice cream (ask me how I know)
• Check that it’s plugged in and cooling BEFORE stocking it with groceries. We once filled a hotel fridge, without realizing that it had been unplugged. All of our groceries were ruined by the time we realized it the following day. 
• Money-saving strategy: Stock breakfast items (think yogurt, boiled eggs, instant oatmeal), snacks (string cheese, carrot sticks, fruit), and drinks from a local grocery store. A family of four can easily save $20-30 daily on beverages alone!

8. Choose Rooms Away From Noise

When booking, specifically request rooms away from:

• Ice machines (constant motor noise and late-night ice-getters)
• Elevators (ding sounds and guest chatter)
• Housekeeping stations (early morning cart noise)
• Vending areas (late-night snackers)
• Pool/fitness center (early morning swimmers/workout enthusiasts)
• Ask for a room between the 3rd and 6th floors – high enough to avoid street noise but low enough for quick stair access if needed! I love those top floors but ever tried to make it down 12 flights of stairs with kids in tow during a fire alarm? Me neither, and I really don’t want to. 

9. Pack a Streaming Stick

Bring either a Roku, Fire Stick, or Chromecast for TV entertainment options. You never know what kind of tv the room will have and if there are any streaming options available. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be stuck watching a Sponge Bob marathon on Cartoon Network.

• Load it with your subscriptions and log in to the streaming platforms before leaving home
• Bring an HDMI extension cord if you have one (sometimes hotel TV ports are hard to reach)

10. Bring a Power Strip

If you’re traveling with older kids and teens, pack a compact power strip with USB ports for charging multiple devices:

• Look for one with at least 3 outlets and 2-3 USB ports
• Position it on the desk or nightstand for easy access This prevents arguments over charging priority and makes sure all your devices are charged and ready for the next day. 

11. Pack Night Lights

If your kiddos are used to sleeping with a nightlight, don’t forget to pack one or two. 

• Consider battery-operated ones (no outlet hunting needed)
• Place one in the bathroom- hotel bathrooms are extra dark since there are typically no windows. Instead of blinding yourself with the overhead light or running into cabinets in the pitch black, keep a dim nightlight plugged in. 

12. Request Late Checkout

Maximize your final day by requesting a late checkout:

• Ask during check-in AND the night before departure
• Typical free extensions: 1-2 hours
• Loyalty members often get until 2 pm or later for free (Marriott Bonvoy gives us 4 pm late check-out!)
• Some hotels offer half-day rates for even later departures– perfect for families with naptime schedules or afternoon flights!

13. Use Grocery Delivery Services

Take advantage of delivery services to stock your room:

• Instacart or local grocery delivery (order before arrival)
• Amazon Fresh in major cities
• Target/Walmart delivery for snacks and supplies
• Common items to order:
  • Breakfast foods (cereal, milk, fruit, yogurt, boiled eggs)
  • Sandwich supplies, cut-up veggies, and chips for quick lunches
  • Individual snack packs 
  • Juice boxes and water bottles 

14. Pack a Collapsible Cooler

A soft-sided collapsible cooler (this one folds completely flat!) serves multiple purposes:

• Use for extra souvenir space during travel home
• Store drinks and lunch for picnics, beach days, etc. 
• Keep damp swimsuits and towels separate from other luggage

Size recommendation: 16-24 quart capacity fits easily in luggage when collapsed but holds enough for a family of four.

15. Take Advantage of Hotel Laundry Rooms

Self-service laundry can be a trip-saver when you’re trying to pack light. Especially if you have messy kids! 

• Pack travel-size detergent pods or laundry sheets
• Bring quarters or check if machines take cards
• Ask about peak usage times to avoid crowds
• Pack a pop-up mesh laundry hamper 
• In a pinch, the hotel sink works great for small loads! And those magnetic hooks I mentioned earlier will help with hanging and drying wet clothes!

16. Ask About Baby Gear

Hotels often provide more than just cribs. A few items you may find at your hotel include:

• Playpens or full-size cribs
• High chairs for in-room dining
• Strollers (less likely but becoming more popular)
• Baby-proofing kits
• Kid snacks

Just be sure to call ahead to reserve items – they’re often first-come, first-served.

17. Book Hotels with Free Breakfast

Maximize the free breakfast benefit:

• Check breakfast hours and arrive early
• Grab fruit, yogurt, or packaged items for snacks
• If you’re a hotel loyalty member, you may have access to the lounge with breakfast included. 

Average hotel breakfast costs $15-20 per person, so this can be a huge savings!

18. Create a Mini Kitchen Setup

If you’re planning to eat meals in a regular hotel room, you’ll want to pack a few things. Essential items for your hotel room kitchen:

• Collapsible silicone bowls
• Paper plates
• Reusable travel utensils or plastic ware
• Zip-top bags for sandwiches and snacks on-the-go
• Two-in-one compact can opener and bottle opener
• Paper towels
• Travel-sized dish soap

19. Bring a Roll of Painters Tape

No, we’re not redecorating the hotel rooms…the people on the internet have found tons of uses for painter’s tape that you might have not even thought of! 

• Use it for baby proofing:  cover outlets, tape drawers closed, tape up dangling cords, etc.
• Block out light: Put a strip of tape along the crack in the door and frame to block out light, tape curtains closed, cover annoying lights from clocks and electronics, etc
• Seal bags of chips and snacks
• Remove lint from clothing
• Use it to create games like hopscotch

Painter’s tape doesn’t leave sticky residue- that’s why it’s our tape of choice. Bring at least one roll on your next trip. 

20. Pack Door Stoppers

Stick a couple of these in your bag. Multiple uses for rubber door stoppers:

• Extra security for the main door
• Hold connecting doors open during family time
• Prop main door while moving luggage
• Keep bathroom door from slamming
• Improve air circulation

21. Bring Compact Games

Create a portable entertainment kit for the kids to keep them entertained in the hotel room:

• Card games (Uno, Skip-Bo, regular playing cards)
• Travel-sized board games
• Magnetic games that won’t lose pieces
• Coloring books and crayons
• Small LEGO sets in zip-top bags or travel Lego case

Organization tip: Use plastic pencil cases to create individual activity kits for each child.

22. Use Shower Caps for Shoes

Creative uses for those free hotel shower caps:

• Cover muddy shoes in suitcases
• Wrap wet swimsuits for travel
• Protect electronics from spills
• Cover TV remote (germ protection)

Ask housekeeping for extra caps – they’re usually happy to provide them.

23. Request Kid-Specific Amenities

Some hotels (especially upscale, resort properties, or hotels near theme parks) offer special perks for kids if you ask:

• Welcome bags with coloring or activity books
• Special kids’ toiletries
• Scavenger hunt maps
• Cookie delivery at bedtime
• Kids’ robes and slippers

Note: An affordable, kind-friendly option is the Aloft Hotel by Marriott. They offer Camp Aloft, where the kids get a little tent and bed, treats, and games to play for no extra cost! 

24. Choose Hotels Near Public Transit

The best hotel we stayed at wasn’t fancy. But it was right next to the subway station in DC! We couldn’t have asked for better! Benefits of transit-friendly locations:

• Save $30-50 daily on parking fees
• Avoid rental car costs ($50+ daily)
• Easy access to attractions
• No traffic or navigation stress
• Often near restaurants and shops

Pro Tip: Research the area’s transit passes for families – many offer multi-day discounts or free transit for children.

25. Bring Your Own Microfiber Towels 

Some hotels will charge you if the hotel room towels become stained. You can avoid this by bring a couple of microfiber towels from home that you can use for:

• Makeup removal
• Nosebleeds, cuts, etc.
• Messy spills
• Muddy shoes

Save the bath towels for bathing, so you’re not stuck paying exorbitant replacement fees. Stash one of these easy-to-pack travel microfibers instead. 

26. Pack Clothespins or Binder Clips

Stash a few clothespins or binder clips in your luggage for uses like:

• Closing the annoying gap in the drapes
• Closing open bags of snacks
• Hang multiple wet swimsuits on closet hangers

27. Pack Travel Sized Disinfectant Spray

Before your kiddos grab the remote, pull out that travel-sized Lysol or Clorox spray, and disinfect it. The same goes for any other surfaces or things in the room, that might not be regularly cleaned, like chairs, clock radios, drawer handles, etc. 

28. Create Makeshift Bed Rails with Rolled Towels

Traveling with wiggly preschoolers? You don’t need to pack bulky bed rails to keep your little one from rolling off the bed. Instead, ask for extra towels that you can roll up and wedge under the fitted sheet. It’s easy, saves luggage space, and is free. 

Pro Tips for Making Hotel Reservations

Here are some booking strategies that can help elevate your next hotel stay:

• Call the hotel directly after finding the best online rate and see if they can beat it
• Ask about unadvertised family packages, kids’ amenities, or special deals
• Mention special occasions (birthdays, anniversaries)
• Request specific room locations
• Confirm all special requests in writing

Extra Money-Saving Hotel Hacks for Families:

Here are a few extra tips that can help stretch your hotel budget:

• Sign up for hotel email newsletters for exclusive deals. Hotels will often offer extra points, free bonus nights, and other big savings! 
• Book refundable rates and check prices again closer to stay. This has saved me so much money! I’ll sometimes cancel and rebook 5-10 times before a stay, as the prices fluctuate so much. 
• Use cashback sites for booking. Some of my favorites are Rakuten, Capitol One, and Ibotta.
• Stack credit card rewards with hotel points. (Note: A travel rewards credit card is only worth it if you pay it off each month!)
• Check AAA, AARP, or military discounts, if applicable. (Note: Anyone can sign up for AARP! It’s $20 a year to join, but you can save a lot on 

Final Family-Friendly Advice

Here are a few more hotel tips to make your family vacation extra smooth and enjoyable: 

• A lot of hotel policies are flexible – always ask!
• Get to know the front desk staff. Being polite makes a huge difference! 
• Document special requests in writing, so you can challenge them if unexpected charges appear after your stay. 
• Take photos of room condition at check-in

Planning a Hotel Staycation with Kids?

If you’re planning a hotel staycation with kids, check out this article before you go!

Wrapping Up: Hotel Hacks for Families

Using these hotel hacks for families can transform your next family vacation from stressful to spectacular. The key is planning ahead and not being afraid to ask for what your family needs – remember, hotels want happy guests who’ll return and recommend them to others.

While traveling with kids will never be completely chaos-free, these strategies will help you create a comfortable home base without breaking the bank. Let me know which hotel tips and tricks you’ve tried and feel free to share any other hotel room hacks we haven’t thought of!

The post 25+ Hotel Hacks for Families: Budget Tips and Clever Hotel Room Solutions appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

Hey there, holiday enthusiasts! Get ready to hop aboard the merriest Christmas adventures in Texas and beyond – a Christmas train ride that’ll make your spirits soar higher than Santa’s sleigh! 

If you’ve ever dreamed of chugging along on the Polar Express or just fancy a jolly train journey with a sprinkle of Christmas magic, you’re in for a treat. Texas is serving up some seriously awesome experiences, and we’ve even snuck a peek at a few just over the border. So, grab your hot cocoa, and let’s explore the best Polar Express Christmas train rides that’ll have you jingling all the way!

1. Texas State Railroad Polar Express Train – Palestine and Rusk 

This ride offers a magical journey to the North Pole, complete with hot chocolate, cookies, and a reading of “The Polar Express.” Children receive a silver sleigh bell, just like in the story. The Christmas train ride departs from both Palestine and Rusk depots.

2. Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s North Pole Express – Grapevine

While not officially “The Polar Express,” this Christmas train ride is equally enchanting. Passengers board beautifully decorated vintage coaches for a journey to the North Pole, enjoying Christmas carols, cookies, and a visit from Santa.

3. Austin Steam Train’s North Pole Flyer – Cedar Park

This holiday train departs from Cedar Park and features a two-hour round-trip with Christmas stories, carols, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Passengers enjoy hot chocolate and cookies during the festive ride.

4. Galveston Railroad Museum’s Polar Express Train Ride – Galveston

This official Polar Express ride offers a journey to the North Pole aboard vintage rail cars at the Galveston Railroad Museum. The Christmas train ride includes hot chocolate, cookies, a reading of the book, and a gift of a silver sleigh bell from Santa.

5. Santa’s Wonderland Train Ride – College Station

While not a traditional train ride, this attraction features a Santa’s Express train that will captivate passengers with a winter wonderland of lights and Christmas displays.

6. Oklahoma Railway Museum’s Christmas Train – Oklahoma City, OK 

This Christmas train ride features Santa Claus, elves, and festive decorations. It’s a shorter ride but offers a charming Christmas experience.

7. Pablo’s Holiday Express – Santa Fe, NM 

This scenic ride through the gorgeous New Mexico landscape is decorated for the holidays and often includes carolers and a visit from Santa. Plus, with so much to see and do in Santa Fe, it’s definitely worth the trip!

8. NOLA Polar Express Christmas Train- New Orleans, Louisiana

This ride offers a magical round-trip journey to the North Pole, complete with hot chocolate, cookies, and a reading of Chris Van Allsburg’s “The Polar Express.” The story comes to life as children receive a silver sleigh bell, just like in the story. Put on your favorite Christmas pajamas and get whisked away on the Polar Express! 

9. Arkansas & Missouri Railroad Holiday Express/ Pajama Train – Springdale, AR 

This old-fashioned excursion offers breathtaking Ozark scenery along with holiday decorations, and refreshments, and often includes characters like elves and Santa. It departs from both Van Buren and Springdale stations. 

Wrapping Up

There you have it – a ticket to ride straight into the heart of holiday magic! From official Polar Express adventures that’ll make you believe in Santa all over again, to charming local trains decked out in more lights than a Christmas tree, Texas and its neighbors really know how to roll out the holiday magic on rails.

These aren’t just Christmas train rides; they’re memory-makers. Whether you’re a wide-eyed kid or just a grown-up who refuses to let go of that Christmas spirit (just me?), these train rides are your ticket to holiday cheer. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your tickets, bundle up in your favorite Christmas jammies, and get ready to make some merry memories. All aboard the holiday express!

The post 9 Magical Christmas Train Rides In and Around Texas in 2025 appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

Hello, fellow travelers and homebodies alike! Let’s chat about one of my favorite ways to get away from it all without straying too far – the hotel staycation. Picture this: you and your family, relaxing in a comfy hotel room, surrounded by amenities you don’t have to maintain, enjoying a change of scenery without the hassle of long-distance travel. That’s the essence of a hotel staycation.

We’ve compiled nine fantastic tips that will elevate your hotel staycation experience from ordinary to extraordinary. These secrets will help you really enjoy your family while creating lasting memories, even on a budget. So, let’s dive into our top strategies for planning the perfect hotel staycation that will have everyone in your family smiling.

This post may contain affiliate links to products or services we love and recommend. This comes at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting my small business!

Tip 1: Pick the Perfect Spot

When it comes to time to choose a hotel for your staycation, you’ll want to check off these boxes: 

Hotel Amenities and Activities

When it comes to hotel staycations, the hotel amenities matter.  Look for spots with free breakfast, pools or waterparks (hello, built-in entertainment!), game rooms, free or low-cost outdoor activities, or even kid-friendly classes. Goat yoga? Cookie decorating? Hula dancing? Sign us up! 

While some kids are totally cool with chilling in a hotel room watching movies all day (my youngest), other kids require much more activity to keep the equilibrium (my middle child). So if your goal is to not leave the hotel or resort for a day or 2 or 3, choose a hotel with plenty of onsite activities. 

And let’s not forget the adult amenities. Tag team parenting and book a spa visit for a massage or other treatment. It’s your chance to rejuvenate, too, so take time for yourself. And if you don’t have the budget for a spa visit, even some time alone at the pool or coffee shop can be a nice reprieve from daily life of work and parenting.  

Destination Location

Location is key, y’all. You don’t want to be so far from home that you’re spending half your vacay in transit (hence the stay in staycation). But if relaxation is your goal, you also want to be far enough from the traffic and city noise and anything that reminds you of work, so that you can actually catch some Z’s and decompress. Is the pool next to a noisy freeway or construction site? Hotel down the street from the office? It’s important to not just choose a hotel for what it offers but also scope out everything around the location. 

 Tip 2: Find Ways to Save Money

Now, let’s talk about making your wallet as happy as your kiddos. There are tried and true strategies for scoring some amazing deals on resorts and hotels that you might otherwise think are completely out of your budget.

Timing is Everything

Booking during off-peak times can save you more money than you’d think.  While it’s tempting to vacay when everyone else is, choosing off-season times can save you hundreds of dollars. In the US, November is typically the cheapest time to book a hotel, with December being the most expensive. 

Also, the timing of your booking is really important. If you’re like me, you get giddy about finding the perfect hotel right away. Unfortunately, pricing is often in favor of those last-minute planners. You can find much better prices days out from your booking, due to all the last-minute cancellations. If you’re worried about them filling up and you being left without a room, go ahead and book early but choose a hotel that has a generous refund policy, so you can cancel and rebook at a cheaper rate if/when the price drops.

When choosing the days of your stay, opt for weekday stays and avoid the higher Friday and Saturday night costs. Hotels that cater to business travelers are the only exception to this, as they are often cheaper on the weekends.

Freebies 

Save money on daily staycation expenses by choosing hotels with complimentary breakfasts and evening snacks or small bites. Some hotels, such as Residence Inn or Drury Inn offer free breakfast and evening snacks and can potentially save you hundreds of dollars depending upon the length of your stay. And in our experience, the “snacks” have included burgers, salads, barbecue, nachos, and more and can definitely suffice as a meal.

Hotel Loyalty Programs

This has been the key to us getting some incredible hotel perks and savings. We signed up for Marriott Bonvoy thirteen years ago. Over time we’ve been able to accrue points towards free nights, earn lifetime platinum status guaranteeing us lounge access, plus receive lots of upgrades for free.

While it’s not a necessity to earn hotel loyalty status, if you’ll be traveling frequently, it just makes sense. The free breakfasts and snacks and drinks in the lounge have saved us money, the room upgrades have saved us from having to book an extra room to fit us all, and all the hotel points have given us a high-end resort and hotel stays for free. 

Credit Card Reward Points

Another way to save money is choosing a credit card that rewards your spending with hotel stays and points. There are tons to choose from. Since we are Marriott lovers, we have  Marriott Bonvoy credit cards that have rewarded us with extra free nights and tens of thousands of hotel points.

Tip 3: Pack Like a Pro (Less is More, Y’all!)

Listen up, because this is important: You do not need to pack like you’re leaving on a 14-day cruise. Pack light, pack smart. Bring the essentials and maybe that one fancy outfit for when you’re feeling fancy (or when room service arrives, same thing). Remember, whatever you pack has to be unpacked when you get home, so make it easy on yourself and just bring the bare minimum.

Don’t forget the fun stuff, though. A deck of cards, a favorite board game, or that book you’ve been meaning to read for the last decade. And snacks, people. SNACKS. Nothing says “family harmony” quite like a well-timed granola bar or a secret stash of gummy bears.

Tip 4: Play Tourist

Do a little homework (I know, I know, but this is the fun kind) and check out things to do around your hotel. Trip Advisor is my go-to for finding real reviews of all the top attractions wherever we’re visiting! You should also chat up the hotel staff or concierge desk – ask them where they’d go on their day off. They have some of the best ideas. And don’t forget the local tourism office, where you can often find coupons for discounted rates to lots of local attractions. 

If you want to hit up several main attractions on your staycation, you can save 50% on entrance fees with the City Pass. It’s totally worth the cost if they offer it at your location.

While you’re playing tourist in your neck of the woods, check out the restaurants, try a new coffee shop, go on a hike, visit cultural spots, the zoo, parks, or shops, take a self-guided tour, etc., etc. Also, keep an eye on social media for local events, like festivals, art fairs, vendor markets, or concerts. Much of that is free, which can really help with keeping you entertained on a tight budget.

Tip 5: To Plan or Not to Plan

A hotel staycation doesn’t have to be all room service and movies in bed (unless that’s totally your thing!). Make it feel like a real vacation away from home by mixing it up with a combo of scheduled activities and downtime. The point is to have fun and relax, not overthink and over-schedule.

And always, ALWAYS have a backup plan. Weather happens, places close unexpectedly, and sometimes the kids just aren’t feeling that educational walking tour you were so excited about. Flexibility is your friend, so try to roll with the punches. 

Tip 6: Make a Splash!

I know I mentioned the pool when we talked about amenities, but this one is so important it deserves its own bullet point. If you’re looking to plan a relaxing, budget-friendly staycation that doesn’t involve driving all over town, the pool is key! A shimmering oasis of chlorinated bliss can transform your staycation from alright to glorious faster than your 9-year-old can yell “Cannonball!” 

To make it a full day of fun, pack some pool toys, invent some crazy games, and bring on all the snacks to keep the energy up and the fun flowing. If the sun and fun are too much, take an afternoon nap and then head out again for an evening swim. 

And parents, don’t forget to treat yourselves to some poolside relaxation. Take turns watching the kids so each of you can enjoy a few moments of peace with a good book or a fruity drink. You deserve it.

Tip 7: Room Service 

Room service always feels like a luxury to me. I can’t help but conjure replays of Home Alone 2 in my head and the lavish spread of junk food rolled in on fancy carts. But what better time to indulge in some fancy feeling room service than on a stay cation.

Room service isn’t just a meal; it’s a fun experience for everyone. Breakfast in bed? Yes, please! Late night hunger cravings while you’re snuggled in bed watching a movie? Go for it, if it’s in your budget. Indulge in the little things to make your staycation feel even more memorable.

Tip 8: Get Your Game On

Bring on the family game night! Pack your favorite games or bring a new one along to learn together. Some hotels will even have games for you to check out in the hotel lobby. We’ve found that at the end of the day when we’re back in the hotel room, it’s easy for everyone to retreat back to their individual screens. So pull out the games instead. And snacks. Always snacks. 

Tip 9: Unplug and Unwind

Alright, here’s the kicker, folks. It’s time to break up with your devices. I know, it’s hard. But trust me, absence makes the heart grow fonder (and the family grow closer). Set that email auto-responder, turn off those notifications, and remind your coworkers that unless the building is on fire, it can wait.

Instead of scrolling when you’re bored, play a conversation game, go on a walk together, or practice simply being present. It’s easier said than done, but you won’t regret those moments that you might have otherwise missed if you’d been glued to your phone. 

Wrapping Up: Tips for Planning the Perfect Hotel Staycation

Remember, a staycation is about quality time together. It doesn’t have to be perfect to be memorable. Embrace the change of scenery and the break from routine. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or exploring a new part of town, the key is to go with the flow and enjoy each other’s company.

By following these tips, you can turn a simple hotel stay into a rejuvenating family experience. So go ahead, book that staycation, and create some new family memories!

The post Plan the Perfect Hotel Staycation: Relax With These Top 9 Tips appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

Alright, road trippers, gather ’round! We’re about to head off on a trip that’s less “Are we there yet?” and more “Can we keep driving?” 

Listen, we’ve all been there – stuck in a car with our loves for hours on end, watching the same stretch of highway roll by, wondering if we can fashion a parachute out of fruit snack wrappers and make a break for it. But take heart, y’all. I’ve got 35 fun road trip games that’ll have everyone from little Timmy to Aunt Gladys laughing, bonding, and maybe even… gasp… putting away their phones. And bonus, you don’t have to spend any money on these games if you don’t want to!

We’re talking fun road trip games that’ll tickle your brain cells, challenge your creativity, and maybe even teach you a thing or two about your fellow passengers. And here’s the kicker – these games aren’t just for the kiddos. Oh no, we’re equal-opportunity fun-havers here. Mom and Dad, you’re not just chauffeurs on this trip. You’re full-fledged players, and let me tell you, nothing brings out your competitive side quite like trying to spot a Hawaii license plate on I-35.

If you’re looking for other road trip tips, you have to check out our 25 road trip hacks and our list of road trip activities to help you survive a long car ride with the kids.

This post may contain affiliate links to products I love and recommend. These come at no cost to you and help to support my small business. Thank you!

My List of 35 Fun Road Trip Games

From classic road trip games to word games to trivia games to laugh your a$$ off games, your next long car ride will keep both kids and adults entertained. These 35 fun road trip games are the best way to pass the time!

The License Plate Game

How to play: Try to spot license plates from all 50 states. Keep a checklist and mark off each state as you see it. The first person to spot a new state gets a point. Alternatively, try to create words or phrases using the letters on license plates.

Option: You can even use one of these license plate game journals to keep track of all your road trips. 

I-Spy

How to play: This easy-to-play game is perfect even with the smallest passenger. One player chooses an object visible from the car and says, “I spy with my little eye something that is…” followed by a descriptive clue (e.g., color, shape, size). Other players take turns guessing until someone identifies the object correctly.

20 Questions

How to play: Here’s a throwback game for the parents. One person thinks of a person, place, or thing. Others take turns asking yes/no questions to guess what it is, with a maximum of 20 questions. If no one guesses correctly after 20 questions, the thinker reveals the answer.

The Alphabet Game

How to play: Players search for words on road signs, billboards, or license plates that start with each letter of the alphabet, in order. The first person to complete the alphabet wins. For a cooperative version, work together to find all the letters.

Would You Rather

How to play: Players take turns asking “would you rather” questions with two choices, often silly or outrageous. For example, “Would you rather have fingers as long as your legs or legs as short as your fingers?” Everyone answers and discusses their choices.

Name That Tune

How to play: One person hums or sings a short part of a song without lyrics. The first person to correctly guess the song title gets a point and becomes the next hummer/singer.

The Movie Game

How to play: Start by naming an actor. The next player must name a movie that the actor was in. The following player names another actor from that movie, and so on. If a player can’t think of a connection, they’re out. Last player standing wins.

Spot the Car

How to play: Choose a specific car model, color, or feature (e.g., red cars, pickup trucks, cars with roof racks). Each player counts how many they see in a set time period. The player with the most sightings wins.

The Story Game

How to play: This game is easy to play and fun for everyone in the car. One person starts a story with a single sentence. Each player then adds one sentence to continue the tale. Try to create the most outrageous or funny story possible. You can also set a theme or genre for added challenge.

Geography Chain

How to play: The first player names a geographical location (city, country, river, etc.). The next player must name a place that starts with the last letter of the previous place. For example: London – New York – Kiev – Vienna. No repetitions allowed.

Two Truths and a Lie

How to play: Think you know your car mates well? Here’s your chance to find out with this favorite party game. Each player tells three statements about themselves – two true and one false. Other players guess which statement is the lie. Each play scores a point for correct guesses and successful deceptions.

The Rhyme Game

How to play: One person says a word, and others take turns saying words that rhyme with it. Continue until no one can think of a new rhyming word. The last person to provide a rhyme wins the round and chooses the next word.

Categories

How to play: Choose a category (e.g., animals, foods, countries). Players take turns naming items in that category. If a player can’t think of an item or repeats one, they’re out. Last player standing wins and picks the next category.

The Memory Game

How to play: Start with “I’m going on a picnic, and I’m bringing…” The first player adds an item. Each subsequent player must recite the entire list and add a new item. Players are out if they forget an item or add one out of order.

Guess the Celebrity

How to play: One player thinks of a celebrity. Others ask yes/no questions to narrow down who it might be. Set a limit of 20 questions or keep going until someone guesses correctly.

The Singing Game

How to play: One person sings a line from a song. The next player must sing a line from a different song that starts with the last word of the previous song. Continue as long as possible. First person who can’t think of a song is out.

Who Am I?

How to play: Write the names of famous people on sticky notes and place them on players’ foreheads. Players take turns asking yes/no questions about their identity. The first to guess their character wins.

The Emoji Game

How to play: One person describes a movie, book, or song using only emojis (either verbally or by drawing). Other players try to guess what it is. The first to guess correctly gets to describe the next item.

Word Association

How to play: One person says a word, and the next person says the first word that comes to mind in association with it. Continue the chain as long as possible. Try to reach 50 words without breaking the chain.

Silent Charades

How to play: One player acts out a movie, book, TV show, or phrase without making any noise. Remaining players try to guess what it is. Set a time limit for each round. The first to guess correctly gets to act next.

The Minute Game

How to play: The driver announces the start of a minute. Players must guess when exactly one minute has passed without looking at any time-keeping devices. The player closest to the actual minute mark wins.

Fortunately/Unfortunately

How to play: This game is always fun! Create a collaborative story where players alternate between fortunate and unfortunate events. Start with “Fortunately…” and the next player continues with “Unfortunately…” Keep the story going as long as possible.

Spell It Backwards

How to play: One player chooses a word and spells it backwards. Other players try to guess the original word. The first to guess correctly gets to choose and spell the next word backwards.

The Animal Name Game

How to play: The first player names an animal. The next player must name an animal that starts with the last letter of the previous animal’s name. (Example: Lion. Narwhal. Llama. Armadillo…) No repetitions are allowed. Last player able to name an animal wins.

Fictionary

How to play: One player (the reader) finds an obscure word in a dictionary and reads it aloud. Other players invent definitions for the word. The reader collects and reads all definitions, including the real one. Players vote on which they think is correct. Points are awarded for guessing the right definition or fooling others with invented ones.

The Grocery Game

How to play: Start with “I went to the grocery store and bought…” Each player adds an item in alphabetical order. For example: “apples, bananas, carrots, dates…” Continue until someone can’t think of an item for their letter.

Famous Pairs

How to play: One person names one half of a famous pair (e.g., “peanut butter”), and others try to guess the other half (“jelly”). Take turns offering famous pairs. This can include fictional characters, historical figures, or common object pairings.

Travel Bingo

How to play: Before the trip, create your own for free, purchase, or download these road trip bingo cards. I love these mess-free, reusable BINGO cards! They’re typically only about $10 for a 4-pack, so it’s a very affordable investment in your sanity. As you travel, players mark off items they spot. First to get five in a row (or cover the whole card) wins.

The Rhyming Riddle Game

 How to play: One player says, “I spy something that rhymes with…” and provides a rhyming word for an object they can see. Other players try to guess the object. The first to guess correctly gets to offer the next rhyming riddle.

The Movie Quote Game

How to play: Players take turns quoting lines from movies. The first person to correctly identify the movie gets a point and offers the next quote. Consider setting a theme (e.g., comedies, Disney movies) to make it more accessible for all players.

Word Ladder

How to play: Choose a starting word and an ending word of the same length. Players take turns changing one letter at a time to create new words, aiming to reach the ending word. For example, changing COLD to WARM: COLD – CORD – CARD – WARD – WARM.

The Alphabet Category Game

How to play: Choose a category (e.g., countries, foods, animals). Go through the alphabet, with each player naming something in that category, starting with the next letter. For an added challenge, try to go through the alphabet multiple times with the same category.

License Plate Phrases

How to play: Look at the letters on license plates of passing cars and try to create funny phrases or sentences using those letters as acronyms. For example, BRK 264 could become “Big Red Kangaroos 2 6 4ever!”

The Telephone Game

How to play: This is a classic road trip game for kids. The first player whispers a phrase to the next person, who then whispers what they heard to the next person, and so on. The last person says aloud what they heard. Compare it to the original phrase and laugh at how it changed!

The Landmark Challenge

How to play: Before the trip, research landmarks or points of interest along your route. During the drive, challenge passengers to spot these landmarks first. Award points for each correct identification. This game not only keeps everyone engaged but also teaches about the areas you’re passing through.

Wrapping-Up: 35 Fun Road Trip Games

With these 35 fun road trip games in your arsenal, long car journeys will hopefully fly by in a flurry of fun, laughter, and friendly-ish competition. These games not only combat boredom but also promote bonding, stimulate creativity, and create lasting memories. Remember to adapt the games to suit your group’s ages and interests, and don’t forget to take breaks and enjoy the scenery along the way.

The post 35 Free, Fun Road Trip Games to Make Time Fly On Your Next Long Drive appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

Who says road trips with kids have to be miserable? With a little creativity and some clever family road trip hacks, you can transform your hours-long “Are we there yet?” broken record into an enjoyable and memorable drive.

Here are our 25 must-try road trip tips that help will keep your next family adventure from flying off the rails. If you’re traveling with kids on your next road trip, then these road trip hacks will help save your sanity and guarantee a much smoother long car ride. 

And if you’re looking to easily plan your next road trip, we have a free travel planner to help you plan your trip from beginning to end!

This post may contain affiliate links to products I love and use myself. They come at no cost to you and help to support our small business.

Free Money: Earn Cashback on Your Road Trip with Upside!

If you haven’t heard of Upside, you’re missing out! I use Upside to get cashback on my gas purchases and at restaurants. I love the map feature, as it lets me easily search for gas stations around me and shows all the current pricing, so I can find the best price with the best cashback. Make sure you download the Upside app before your next road trip!

25 Family Road Trip Hacks

Here are our top 25 family road trip hacks to keep you sane on your next long drive:

Scout Out Bathroom Breaks

Don’t wait until it’s an emergency. Download the Flush Toilet Finder app, so you’ll be able to scout out all the nearby public restrooms and avoid any side-of-the-road potty breaks. 

Plan Your Route with Apps

Use apps like Roadtrippers to discover scenic routes and hidden gems. Schedule fun pit stops to stretch and explore quirky attractions. Turn an otherwise painful journey into a family adventure.

Navigation Helpers

Get older kids involved with navigation apps or paper maps. Teach them basic skills and make them feel like co-pilots on the journey. 

DIY Mess Clean-Up Kit

Equip your car with a DIY mess clean-up kit that will have you prepared for spills, car sickness, or any other unwelcome accidents. Complete it with a bath towel, gallon-size Ziploc bags, grocery sacks, wet wipes, sanitizing wipes, hand sanitizer, paper towels, bottled water, and a spray upholstery cleaner.  You’ll be thanking yourself down the road.

Car Sickness Survival Kit

Pack Dramamine, ginger candies, motion sickness patches, Gatorade, and salty snacks to help combat nausea. Keep your clean-up kit on hand for emergencies. As a sufferer of motion sickness, this is a must-have for every road trip! 

DIY Car Emergency Kit

Put together a DIY emergency kit with supplies for vehicle repair, first aid kit, and weather protection. You never know what you might experience out on the road and you don’t want to be caught in the middle of nowhere without supplies in the case of an emergency. 

Car Organizers and Storage Hacks

Use over-the-seat organizers, trunk bins, and under-seat storage. Label compartments for easy access to snacks, toys, and gadgets. A little order does a lot to your sanity when you’re spending hours on long rides. 

Ditch the Dirt

 Keep the sand, crumbs, and dirt under control with the rechargeable car vacuum. Kiddo spill a bag of Cheetos on the backseat car floor? Did a day at the beach mean a layer of sand everywhere? Stay on top of it with the handheld vacuum. 

DIY Car Trash Can

Use a large plastic container lined with a grocery sack or small garbage bag as a makeshift trash can. Keep trash contained and dispose of it easily at rest stops.

Fitted Sheet Seat Covers

Cover the back seats with a fitted sheet to catch crumbs and spills. Cleaning up is a breeze – just shake out the sheet and toss it in the wash.

Snack Attack Containers

Pack healthy snacks, things like cereal, pretzels, dried fruit, or trail mix in reusable containers. Avoid messy food and keep everyone happy and fed. You’ll save money and eat much healthier this way! 

Hydration Station

Ensure everyone has a reusable, insulated water bottle that you can keep filled the entire trip. Instead of reaching for another soda or juice, have cold water on hand to help cut the sugar habits. Keep some extra water bottles in the cooler for easy refills or hit up a drive-thru and ask for cups of ice water. 

Individual Activity Bags

Create personalized activity packs with sticker books, fidgets, toys, puzzles, and coloring supplies. Rotate items to keep kids entertained and curious. If you’re short on space, I love these binder-sized activity kits by MamaPapaBubba!

Essential Front Seat Caddy

Repurpose these diaper caddies to keep all your road trip essentials on hand in the front seat. You can stash tissues, chargers, headphones, medicine, money, etc for easy access. It’s a great way to keep everything you need within reach.

Audiobook and Podcast Party

Download kid-friendly audiobooks and podcasts to keep the little minds engaged during your road trip. Use Bluetooth or portable speakers to share the experience and enjoy the ride together.

Road Trip Playlist Extravaganza

Compile a killer playlist with everyone’s favorite tunes to make a long ride much more enjoyable. Take turns DJing and keep the vibes high and positive.

Interactive Car Games Bonanza

Plan road trip games like “I Spy,” “20 Questions,” and road trip bingo. Use travel game boards and free printable game sheets to keep the fun rolling.

Watch a Movie in Your Backseat Cinema

Turn the backseat into a mini cinema with a tablet or portable DVD player. Pre-load movies and shows the kids like and let them enjoy their favorite flicks. This is my kiddos’ favorite way to pass the time on a road trip.

Comfort is King

Dress in comfy layers to adjust to changing temps. Also, be sure to pack a cozy blanket and travel pillow for maximum comfort and shut-eye.

Frequent Fun Breaks

Set alarms for regular stretch and play breaks. Find parks or rest areas with play spaces to let kids burn off energy and break up the long stretches sitting in the car. 

Road Trip Rewards

Establish fun ground rules and reward kids for making good choices. Bring small inexpensive toys, or special snacks, or plan fun stops as rewards. 

Memory Makers

Task the kids with capturing memories. Whether you choose to kick it old school with a Polaroid camera or try out the newest photo editing app, kids will love being the photographers during your road trip journey.  

Magnetic Games for the Car

Give the kids magnetic boards and pieces for favorite board games like tic-tac-toe, Yahtzee, or Connect Four: no more lost pieces and endless entertainment for kids. You can easily turn any game into a magnetic car game with this DIY magnetic game guide by Choose to Thrive. 

DIY Window Art

Let the kids use dry-erase markers or washable window markers to draw on the car windows. It’s a creative outlet for both the big and little ones when you’re out of ideas and can be easily cleaned off at the end of the trip. And the kids will think you’re a super fun parent. 

End-of-Day Reflection Time

Wrap up each day with a family debrief. Give the kids journals if they enjoy writing or drawing their thoughts. Share highlights and plan for the next day’s adventures. It’s a great way to bond and reflect on the fun moments.

Wrapping Up: 25 Family Road Trip Hacks

With these 25 family road trip hacks, we promise that your family road trip will be way more enjoyable and way less chaotic. Stay organized, keep the vibes high and frustrations low, and make unforgettable memories on the road. The journey to and from your destination is part of the experience of family travel and the memories your family is making on the road will last a lifetime. Happy trails!

The post 25 Best Family Road Trip Hacks to Keep You Sane on a Long Car Ride appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

Welcome to the heart of Texas! Waco is not just a city, it’s a treasure trove of fun in this bustling city with a small-town feel. It’s the perfect little getaway for families eager to make some lasting memories together without having to spend a fortune. It’s also a perfect getaway for moms looking for a girls’ weekend!

You can spend your days exploring everything from the bustling Magnolia Market to the expansive Cameron Park, all while soaking in the rich history and welcoming vibe that Texans are famous for. Our three days in Waco were filled with drool-worthy eats and drinks, fabulous shopping, and picturesque outdoor spots.  Let’s dive into our three-day itinerary that promises enjoyment for everyone in your crew without running you ragged or draining your pocketbook. Grab your family and let’s get started on planning your 3 days in Waco!

This post may contain affiliate links, which pay me a small referral fee. I only recommend things that I trust and would use myself. 

Get to Waco

We live in Fort Worth, so it’s an “easy” 1.5-hour trip south on I-35. (There’s a reason we Texans have a love/hate relationship with I-35).  If flying in from out of town, the closest airport is Waco Regional Airport. Currently, American Airlines is the primary passenger airline offering direct and connecting flights to Waco, linking Waco with major hubs and thereby to destinations worldwide. Once at the airport, you can easily rent a car or Uber to your destination. 

You could also check for flights to Austin, which is 90 miles south of Waco or fly into Dallas-Fort Worth, which is 90 miles north of Waco. With 3 airports less than a 2-hour drive from Waco, you’ve got plenty of options. 

Stay in Waco

There are plenty of places to stay in Waco. We are working on racking up our Marriott nights right now and knew we wanted to stay Downtown so we didn’t have to drive much during our 3 days in Waco. We picked an ideal location for our time in Waco! We stayed Downtown at the Courtyard by Marriott. It was perfect because we rarely had to get in the car. We could easily walk around Downtown, to Spice Village and the Suspension Bridge. It kept us more active and we could avoid fighting any traffic. And parking at the hotel was FREE! Score!

The hotel itself was quiet, pet-friendly, and clean. We reserved a suite and had plenty of room for our family of 5 (and a kitty), with the sofa and extra rollaway bed they provided. While it didn’t include free breakfast, they did offer free coffee and typically had some fresh fruit and fruit-infused water available for free, as well. 

The girls were hoping to swim in the “heated” outdoor pool, but it was definitely not heated, so that was out of the question with the 50-degree mornings we had that week. So if you want to swim, pick warmer months. 

As Marriott Bonvoy Elite members, we are fortunate to get late check-out at 4 pm. This is a huge benefit and allows us to enjoy our destination that final day without feeling like we have to rush out the door. We love the perks of being Bonvoy Elite members and credit card holders and all of the points and free hotel stays we have accumulated throughout the years. We’ve saved thousands of dollars!!! I highly recommend looking into Marriott Bonvoy for your family if you want to stay at amazing hotels for free! 

Eat in Waco

Waco is a foodie’s heaven, There’s no shortage of mom-and-pop cafes, breweries, food trucks, and trendy restaurants. There’s no way I could list them all or fit as many in as I would like to during our 3 days in Waco.

Here are a few Waco faves from this trip and past visits:

Health Camp

Contrary to its name, this place will set you back a couple of thousand calories easily. But it’s dang good! Think retro digs, old-time hamburgers, crispy fries, tots, onion rings, and over 30 flavors of malts and milkshakes. This place has been around since 1948 for a good reason! Health Camp is always at the top of our list when we’re in Waco. 

Vitek’s Market

We didn’t make it there on this trip, but this famous barbecue spot is a favorite for a reason. Their Gut Pak is legendary, despite the interesting name. And if your family has some vegetarians like us, you can still enjoy their giant spuds and delish sides. 

Southern Roots Brewing Company

When you’re itching for pizza and beer, Southern Roots Brewing has the hook-up. Order a couple of large pizzas to share and some of their flagship or seasonal beers brewed on-site.  Plus, you’ll love the relaxed and welcoming environment, with lots of card and board games available to play while you dine. It’s the perfect casual spot to hang out with the kids or friends and chow down on some legit pies. 

Magnolia Table

We unfortunately haven’t made it in yet, but if you’re headed to Waco, you might be dying to try Magnolia Table, Joanna Gaines’ restaurant in the Historic Elite Cafe Building. With a beautifully designed interior and tempting menu offerings, the rave reviews confirm this is a must-visit while in Waco. 

George’s

Another long-time Waco spot, George’s is a classic for a big American breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s not fancy but it sure is good! It has some typical greasy spoon offerings, like its award-winning chicken fried steak, and a huge assortment of traditional sports bar food, as well. With its full bar, it’s a great spot to catch a game or hang with a group of friends or the family. 

Union Hall

If you can’t agree on what to eat, head to Union Hall. This food court-style eatery has over a dozen vendors, so you can find food to make everyone happy. We stopped in for the gelato and it was divine. Food halls are always a go-to for our family, and we loved finding Union Hall when we were wandering around Downtown Waco. 

Bitty and Beau’s Coffee

While it’s not just specific to Waco, Bitty and Beau’s Coffee is a chain that you’ll love to get behind. They’re a self-described “human rights movement disguised as a coffee shop.” They’re dedicated to offering people with disabilities a place to work and to add value. It’s a beautiful little coffee shop that is empowering the special needs community while also educating the public on the inherent value of each individual no matter their abilities. It’s money well spent, in my opinion. And it’s dang tasty, too!

3 Days in Waco Itinerary

Here’s a quick recap of our 3 days in Waco. We left quite a bit of space for downtime and leisure. None of us love to pack our schedule full. We enjoy and value rest time on our vacations, but you could easily fit in more sights if that’s your family’s speed! We also choose to do activities that don’t require any spending. I prefer spending my vacation money on my belly (LOL) over activities with a big price tag, but you can tweak your activities for your own family’s budget and likes. We’re all different, so to each their own!

Day 1: Travel and Downtown Waco

Morning: Travel We packed up ourselves and the kitty cat and headed to Waco with plans to arrive after lunchtime. Since our hotel didn’t provide free breakfast, we decided to make a pitstop in West, Texas for some of this Czech town’s famous kolaches, so we could eat in the hotel room and save a bit of money. The Czech Stop didn’t disappoint! After we were armed with a couple dozen different kolaches for breakfasts and snacks, we headed on to check in at our hotel in Waco.

Afternoon: Coffee and Chill After we arrived, our girls and the kitty made themselves comfy in the room with no intention of leaving for the next few hours. The hubs and I were ready to get outdoors and explore around our hotel, so with my high schooler in charge of the kids and cat, we walked over to Bitty and Beau’s for an iced coffee. 

It was bustling and for a good reason! Not only is the coffee top-notch, but you are also supporting an incredible cause and helping to support special needs teens and adults. Plus, it’s the perfect location and environment for relaxing or working remotely. We made a note to come back before we left town and then headed back to check on the kiddos. 

Late Afternoon/Evening: Dinner and Dessert in Downtown I use the term evening loosely. We are early birds when it comes to dinner. So around 5 pm, when the tummies started to rumble, we wrapped up our first day back in Downtown Waco at Southern Roots Brewing Company for some pizza, a couple of rounds of Uno, and a beer and cider for the grown-ups. It was a 10-minute walk from our hotel, so we got to see a lot of Downtown and eye some cute little boutiques my 12-year-old and I were determined to visit before we left.

After dinner and the sweet tooth hit, we scoped out a gelato spot inside Union Hall. We tried a  few different flavors, but the favorite was the Sea Salt Caramel gelato. It was drool-worthy. And we were so excited to eat it that we didn’t even get a pic to show you how glorious it looked. But take my word for it: it’s divine. 

After all that eating, the food coma was hitting and the afternoon caffeine had worn off, so we wandered back to our hotel and stayed put for the night. 

Day 2: Shopping and Leisure

Morning: Magnolia Market When you visit Waco, it’s just a give-in that you should start your Waco adventure at the Magnolia Silos. The Magnolia Silos area is a must-visit for fans of Chip and Joanna Gaines. While I wouldn’t consider myself a huge fan, it was still impressive and a beautiful spot to explore in Waco. 

This market isn’t just a place to shop—it’s a whole experience for all ages. You could easily spend hours here. While parents might enjoy admiring the gorgeously crafted home decor, kids and adults alike can enjoy the spacious lawn for a game of cornhole or chase bubbles. And don’t miss the Silos Baking Company for a delicious cupcake or two! (Just be prepared for a long line!)

And if you’re arriving on a weekend or holiday, be prepared for crowds! If possible, plan your visit for a weekday in the off-season. You’ll be able to enjoy it so much more! 

If you have time after visiting the shops at the silos, you could easily plan a visit to the Dr. Pepper Museum, which is just down the street. I thought it would be fun to visit the museum but no one in my family had any interest, mostly since none of us are Dr. Pepper fans (I know, that is completely totally un-Texan.)  And I learned a long time ago that if no one wants to do it, don’t waste the effort or money. 

The Dr. Pepper Museum is open daily for tours for $10 a person and includes a Dr Pepper from their soda fountain. You can also just visit the soda fountain on sight without a tour ticket, so if you’re a Dr. Pepper fan, you’ll love this Waco gem!

Afternoon: Lunch and Shopping When we come to Waco, we always eat at Fazoli’s. It’s a fave from my childhood, and I’ve shared that love of their garlic butter-drenched breadsticks with my girls. Droooooool. Plus, it’s cheap and quick for when we need an affordable and fast little lunch. 

After you’ve engorged in all the carbs, you can attempt to keep yourself awake and burn off a bit of that bread with a walk downtown. We scoped out some shopping and enjoyed the gorgeous Spring weather. You can’t hardly beat springtime in Texas! By this time, we were all dragging and decided to deal with our over-full bellies the professional way: A NAP. 

After a quick nap, my twelve-year-old and I left the other 3 sleepy heads at the hotel and walked over to Spice Village, located in the 1908 Waco Hardware building.

This shopper’s paradise features over 60 boutiques under one roof, offering unique gifts, home decor, and fashion. It’s a fantastic place for finding souvenirs and supporting local artisans.

We are the only ones who enjoy shopping in our family, and we love to hunt for a deal. After digging around, my daughter found the cutest little ivory faux leather jacket on clearance and a precious houndstooth turtle neck that is just the cutest ever on her. And bonus, we only spent $35! 

After a successful shopping trip, it was back to the hotel to decide on dinner. 

Late Afternoon/ Evening: Suspension Bridge and Dinner Even though our hotel was practically across the street from the Waco Suspension Bridge and we had walked past it multiple times when we were headed Downtown, we still hadn’t walked across it. This iconic structure offers a glimpse into the city’s past and stunning views of the Brazos River. And it’s a great spot for family photos!

We had to hop in the car for dinner, so we could head over to Health Camp. This wasn’t our initial foray there, so we were already drooling at the thought of some crispy tots and one of their incredible milkshakes. This little burger shop gets pretty busy at mealtimes, so if you can get there early to beat the rush, you’ll be glad you did. 

We were completely worthless after that meal, so we called it a day and headed back to the hotel to hang out for the evening.

Day 3: Shopping/Outdoors/Head Home

Morning: Waco River Walk and Downtown Shopping The Waco River Walk is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, run, or bike ride. It spans both sides of the Brazos River and connects Cameron Park to Downtown to  Baylor University. With plans for a 30-minute walk, we strapped the kitty cat on our backs in his cat backpack and headed out on the cool, spring morning.

We started at Washington Avenue, crossed over on the Suspension Bridge, and wandered over to Martin Luther King Jr Park. You’ll see an impressive mural of MLK Jr. and the March on Washington.

There was also an incredibly beautiful Memorial for Waco-born Doris Miller, a WWII hero from the Attack of Pearl Harbor.

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to enjoy Waco and take in the scenery around the Brazos, you could book a Brazos Morning or Sunset Boat Tour. This 2-hour tour makes multiple stops to allow you time to capture photos and explore the landmarks. It was out of the budget for our family this time, but if you’re short on time, it would be a great way to take in more of the beauty and history of Waco

After our walk, we dropped the kitty off at the hotel and then headed downtown for a last little jaunt. Mae and I hadn’t forgotten about those boutiques we scoped out on our first night there, so we convinced everyone to head downtown so we could shop a bit. They lasted about 10 minutes at the first boutique before we shooed them out the door and promised to meet up for lunch in a bit. There are so many charming little boutiques in Downtown Waco, and I can’t wait to go back when we have more time to wander around. 

Afternoon: Lunch, Coffee Stop, the Bear Habitat and Cameron Park

The girls were craving some Asian food for lunch, and we previously spotted a little Japanese spot near Spice Village,  just a 5-minute walk from our hotel. It was quick and tasty and satisfied everyone. And since we highly value napping on vacation in our family, we headed back to the hotel for some shut-eye. 

I knew we were leaving that afternoon, and I was dying to head back to Bitty and Beau’s one more time, so I promised my youngest a smoothie if she’d come with me. We sat outside on their patio and savored our drinks before we knew we needed to head back to pack up and check out by 4 pm.

A little before 4, we checked out of the hotel with two more spots on our list: the Baylor Bear Habitat and Cameron Park. My husband said he’d drop us off by the Bears because parking is a struggle around there! We were so bummed to find out that they weren’t out that afternoon!  Womp womp. Next time!

So, on to Cameron Park, one of my favorite places in Waco! We were happy to find another tuxedo cat in a backpack carrier. (Yay, cat. moms!) The two younger girls played on the Pecan Bottom playground for a bit while the rest of us enjoyed the views of the Brazos and the natural scenery.

The 416-acre Cameron Park offers so much to visitors, including multiple playgrounds, splash pads, hiking on trails like the well-known Jacob’s Ladder, mountain bike trails, an incredible zoo, and more. You could easily spend an entire day here if your family loves the outdoors. (I’m still working on my crew.) 

After an hour, we knew we needed to get back and check on our other kitties, so we loaded up the car and made the 1.5-hour trek back to Fort Worth. So long, Waco!

Wrapping Up- 3 Days in Waco

As our 3 days in Waco came to a close, we left with happy kids, full bellies, and some fun memories. It’s one of my favorite Texas towns, with its blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With so much to see and do, there’s something for everyone here. It’s ideal for day trips from Fort Worth, Dallas, and Austin, or longer getaways. Either way, you can’t go wrong with a quick visit to Waco. Let me know your favorite spots in Waco!

And if you’re ready to plan your 3 days in Waco, sign up on the form below to receive a free travel planner!

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