road trip tips - Pitstops for Kids

Three best road trip itineraries for active families

June 1, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

No matter how much we vacation, road trips remain one of our favorite modes of travel. Why? Road trips offer a sense of adventure and freedom that’s hard to beat. Plus, they’re often more affordable, more flexible, and allow us to see the country up-close and personally. I’m offering up our three best road trip itineraries for active families in the western US and Canada:

1. Northern California Coastal Road Trip

Think a road trip down California’s fabled Highway 1 is only for romantic getaways, ideally in a convertible? Well sure, that’d be nice, but a Highway 1 road trip is excellent with kids in tow, too. Our trip started in San Francisco and ended in San Simeon, with both city and country stops.

Highlights for active families:

Hiking along Big Sur
Biking along Monterey Bay
Kayaking and seal watching
city exploration in San Francisco

Read our full Highway 1 itinerary.

2. Vancouver Island Road Trip

Head over the border to Canada, and explore all the rugged beauty of Vancouver Island, BC. We started in the city of Vancouver, then took a BC ferry at Horseshoe Bay. Once we were on Vancouver Island, we explored the east coast of the shore (known for its sunny weather), then crossed the island for breathtaking views and wildlife spotting on the western side.

Highlights for active families:

Kayaking in Ucluelet
Whale watching via zephyr boat in Tofino
Exploring Pacific Rim National Park
Ferrying to old growth forests in Meares Island

Read our full Vancouver Island itinerary. Want to add a bit more Pacific Northwest south of the border? Explore San Juan Islands, WA as well.

3. Western National Parks road trip: Montana, Wyoming, and Utah

Want to see Glacier, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Zion, but can’t decide which epic national park to visit? Neither could we! For this national park-focused road trip, we started in Spokane, WA, and drove to Montana to see Glacier, then dropped down Big Sky for some outdoor playtime before driving to Wyoming to see Yellowstone and Grand Teton. Next, we headed to Park City, Utah for a breather before driving south to Zion.

Highlights for active families:

Exploring 4 national parks in about 3 weeks
Camping in yurts and tents
Playing on ropes courses and zip lines in Park City and Big Sky
Boating on Glacier lakes
horseback riding in view of the Tetons

Read our full Western National Parks itinerary. Need a great detour? Drive to Cody, Wyoming after visiting Grand Teton to learn about Buffalo Bill and explore cowboy country.

Additional picks:

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Georgia road trip: Five pit stops from the mountains to the coast

May 27, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

The following is a guest post by Sue Rodman, managing editor of 365 Atlanta Family.

Why rush to get to your destination when there is so much to see and do along the way? For those who like to enjoy the journey, we’ve put together a Georgia road trip that will take you on winding mountain roads, zipping along the highways, and cruising toward the sunshine coast. Yes, Georgia does have a coast, and we promise you’re going to love it.

North Georgia Route 76

Our journey begins in the North Georgia Mountains along the east-west Route 76, which is easy to get to from the north-south I-75 or I-85. This winding trail takes you through the friendly mountain towns of Ellijay, Blue Ridge, Blairsville, Hiawassee and Clayton. Here are some places you’ll want to get out and stretch your legs along this mountain highway.

Ellijay, Ga. This is the apple capital of the state. In fall, pull over at Red Barn Apple House for a peck and some apple cider. Note, Georgia’s apple season begins in late August and runs through the beginning of October.

Blue Ridge, Ga. About 15 minutes off Route 76 down Rock Creek Road is the Fall Branch Falls. This is a great family-friendly hike, and even young kids can make it to the lower falls section. The seclusion here is a nice break from the road.

Blairsville, Ga. Along Route 76 (also called Young Harris Hwy or Route 515) is a quick stop at Sleepy Hollow Enterprises. Explore the whimsical “fairy houses” made by this former Disney Imagineer, and then tour the store. The colorful creations will delight your soul.

Hiawassee, Ga. Along Route 76 in Hiawassee is the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds is open for year round camping along Lake Chatuge, but what it’s best known for are the big events it hosts every year, including the Georgia Mountain Fair, the Superstar Concert Series in the Anderson Music Hall, the Georgia Mountain Fall Festival and Georgia’s State Fiddler’s Convention. If you aren’t visiting during any of these events, check the website, they offer lots of smaller events too.

Clayton, Ga. As you make the turn to get on Route 23 toward I-85, take a break at the Clayton Pharmacy. Tucked inside this pharmacy is an old-fashioned soda shop with milkshakes, hot dogs, and more. I also read their egg salad sandwiches are awesome for packing on a hike.

Atlanta Georgia I-75/I-85

Whether you take I-75 or I-85 south, they’ll merge together for a bit between Midtown and Downtown Atlanta. If you hit things during rush hour (could be anytime, depending on what’s going on in the city that day), grab a bite from the car hops at the Varsity. You’ll see the sign from the highway on the North Avenue exit. And if you want to spend more time in the city, choose from these 140+ Things to do in Atlanta.

In Atlanta you have two choices, stay on the highway or continue to follow the road less traveled and head east on I-20 toward Augusta where you’ll take Route 25 to Savannah. Along this route you’ll pass the antebellum towns of Social Circle, Madison and Rutledge. Stretch your legs with some shopping at Rutledge Hardware. My favorite things, like a 1940’s ledger, peanut warmer and letter from the 1800’s aren’t for sale, but you can get any number of other essentials. Do yourself a favor and go next door for a piece of buttermilk pie from Yesterdays before hitting the road again.

Middle Georgia I-16

If you’d rather take the shortest route possible to the beach, stay on I-75, but plan to make a pit stop in Macon to learn a bit about the city’s musical roots on a Rock Candy Walking Tour. Macon was once home to Little Richard, James Brown, and Otis Redding — and let’s not forget the Allman Brothers Band! — so there is plenty to see and learn from these local tour guides.

In Macon, you’ll veer off I-75 onto I-16 toward Savannah where you’ll pick up I-95 South. It’s worth a slight detour to Savannah to walk among the live oaks dripping with Spanish moss in the city’s many squares. If you only have a little time, combine a ghost tour with a history lesson and a meal at the Pirates House. Some say it’s a bit touristy, but we love the stories of drunken locals carried off to sea, and they have delicious fried chicken, plus pirate hats for the kids.

Georgia Coast Route 17

From Savannah you can take Route 17 for a back road path through the towns of Richmond Hill, Milton and Darien, or go straight down I-95 to the coast. Follow the signs to St. Simons or Jekyll Islands. On St. Simons look for tree spirits on a very unusual scavenger hunt. These spirits are carved into the live oaks around the island. Be sure to look for the lovely full-sized mermaid!

For a more structured outing, we love the Tidelands Nature Center on Jekyll Island. It’s a bit less flashy than it’s better known cousin the Georgia Sea Turtle Center (which is also excellent). Be sure to check out the special programs like guided kayak tours and dock studies.

Photo credit: Sue Rodman

Travel Gear We Use: The Seventy2 Survival System bug-out bag

March 25, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

You may not be a doomsday prepper or preparing for a zombie apocalypse (or maybe you are), but every family should have a car bug-out bag, ideally for each family member and certainly for road trips and emergencies.

Opt for the Seventy2 Survival System from Uncharted.

Preppers define bug-out bags as gear they can grab quickly in case of emergency, that’s ready to go when they are. The folks at Uncharted simplify this even further: their Seventy2 bag are designed with the premise that 95 percent of emergencies are rectified within 72 hours, so they make sure you have everything you might need for those crucial hours, nothing more, nothing less. The result? A streamlined system in an easy-to-carry, high-quality backpack that you can gift to family members or buy for yourself.

The ‘shell’ of the Seventy2 bag is a 48 liter backpack that’s waterproof and very clearly organized. This backpack alone is worthy of a review. It has pockets and features galore. Inside, clearly marked ‘survival pouches’ make it easy to find essentials, plus know what to do with them. The ‘tools’ pouch is thus labeled, for instance, with all the contents listed underneath, including paracord, shovel, axe, duct tape, knife, and fire starter. In the ‘warmth’ pouch is a tent, blanket, hat, gloves, and hand warmers. For a full list of everything in the Seventy2 bag, including USB chargers, radios, and more, check here.

Can you put together your own survival go bag? Of course. Will you, to this extent? I can almost guarantee you won’t. At least, I won’t, which is why I gifted my college-aged son with a Seventy2 bag and now need more for my household. This bag could be essential on a camping or road trip, but it might also save your life when you’re not traveling.

Pick one up this holiday season as a very special gift for $349. You will have purchased peace of mind along with essentials you needed any way.

Want to design a less extensive, road trip bug-out bag?

For families who like to road trip or car camp, a car bug-out bag can be any kit that contains supplies and extras, such as MOLLE gear, that may be needed in an emergency while away from home.

Whatever type of bug out bag you create, be sure to stock it regularly for minor injuries, sickness, or weather conditions. We’ve never needed ours for a serious emergency, and hope we never do.

Start with any large backpack or duffel. We keep our basic bag, which we use in addition to our Seventy2 bag now, in our primary vehicle. You don’t want to put it anywhere it will need to be frequently moved. Ours is in the back, near the space reserved for the car jack and jumper cables.

What to put in your more basic road trip bug-out bag:

2-4 emergency blankets: These blankets are made of vacuum-metalized polyethylene and reflect 90% of your body heat, allowing you to stay warm despite their thin shape and low weight. They are the size of your palm when still folded, and can also be used as shelter or a ground cloth. We use SOL emergency blankets, which are less than $5 on Amazon.

1 small first aid kit: Ideally, you already have a family-sized first-aid kit in your car (if not, check out our recommendations). However, since your car bug-out bag is meant to be portable, opt for a smaller sized one. We use Adventure Medical Kits’ .5, which is housed in a lightweight, waterproof pouch and includes all the essentials (and not much else). At $15, you can’t make a cheaper one at this weight. Place some extra easy-access bandages in there, too. These nifty band-aids require only one hand to unpeel and place on a cut.

Gloves and winter hats for everyone: Reuse or buy a cheap pair of fleece or knit gloves for everyone in your family, and place them in the bag. Ditto for winter ‘beanie’ hats. These don’t need to be anything fancy; after all, you’ll want to wear your good ones regularly, and you’ll likely never use these. But in case of bad weather or the need to put chains on your tires, you’ll be glad to have some protection for your hands and heads. In winter months, we also add a lightweight jacket for everyone, which just stays in the bag until summer. Remember, you’ll have extra seasonally-appropriate clothing for everyone in your car already if you’re on a road trip or camping trip.

Pocket survival pack: These neat packs fit into your pocket, and include only the barest of essentials for outdoor survival. We have a pack in our backpacking gear, in the ‘just in case’ category, and one more in the car. In the case that someone needed to leave the shelter of the car to seek help, I’d want him or her to have this kit on them. Included is a whistle, mirror, sparker and tinder for an easy flame, and tiny portions of helpful items such as duct tape, safety pins, wire, and foil. It doesn’t seem like much now, but as a former Search and Rescue volunteer, I’ve seen people do amazing things with these items. We like the SOL pocket survival pack, because it comes with a waterproof card of instructions. Pick one up for under $30.

2-way radios: Sure, you have mobile phones, but as we all know, they can be unreliable. If you’re out of coverage area, low on battery power, or–unlikely but possible–if cellular service is down, you’ll want another way to communicate. We recently tried out the Motorola Talkabout 2-Way Radios (in other words, walkie-talkies), and they’ve now been added to our bug-out bag. Why we like them: they’re easy to juice up, they have a long range, and you can receive NOAA weather alerts through them. The Talkabout runs on either alkaline or rechargeable batteries (or can be charged using a mini-USB port, if you have access to that). They work in a 23 mile range, and has a scan feature which allows you to search a programmed list of channels. In the past, we’ve found that walkie-talkies can be useless if too many people are using them, but the Talkabout filters interference from non-Motorola units. They’re not toys, by any means, but still under $50 on Amazon.

Supplies for your car: Hopefully you already know where your car’s extra tire and jack are housed, but in addition, most families should carry chains for winter weather (depending on where you live), and jumper cables. We also store a small, collapsible shovel in our bag, which can (and has been) used to dig out of snow or mud.

Matches and firestarter: If you need to, you want to be able to make a fire for signaling help, warmth, or cooking. If you’re on a camping trip, you’ll have these supplies anyway, but we keep a waterproof case of matches and fire cubes in our bug-out bag all the time, so we don’t have to remember to grab them on each trip. What are fire cubes, you ask? These sugar-cube sized fire starters burn at 1300 F in any conditions…even a downpour. Use them to start a campfire or even boil water. Speaking of which…

Water: This is the only item we do not store in our bug-out bag, because we all carry personal water bottles with us in the car for any trip, so we already have them at the ready. For longer trips, however, we buy a case of water and place it in the back by the bag. If we don’t need it, we use this water on our travels, and buy more.

Want to be even more prepared? Have a water filter handy, or do what we do: pack your bug out bag with a LifeStraw or LifeStraw Go. This award-winning personal filtration system uses a filtering straw, so you have safe water to drink anywhere, anytime. We use ours on international travel days, too, so we get use of it regularly, not just during emergencies. After our son Nate lost his on a trip to Costa Rica, we replaced it immediately!

Basic foods: We don’t go overboard on this, which would probably dismay true preppers. But our bug-out bag is only meant for short term emergencies and even car-ride inconveniences, so we pack snacks with a long shelf life, like beef jerky and Nature Made granola bars. We change these snacks out every 2-3 months. I simply like knowing they’re in our bag should we get stuck in traffic for a very long time or need to leave our car for any reason.

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Find more Travel Gear We Use!

Do you have a car emergency bug-out bag? What’s in it?

Photo credit: Richard Riley

How to go wine tasting with kids: tips on visiting wineries as a family

September 5, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

With vineyards springing up all over the U.S., wine tasting has become more popular than ever. Visiting wineries is a great way to assist a local economy, taste local pairings, and learn about an area’s agriculture. In fact, vineyards are now a big part of agricultural tourism. But what if you have the kids along? Can you go wine tasting with kids? We believe the answer is yes. Follow the tips below to have a fun, successful, and positive experience at a winery with kids.

Pair vineyards with outdoor activities:

Instead of telling the kids that they’ll be touring tasting rooms all day (get ready for a negative reaction on that one), pick one winery you’d really enjoy visiting and pair it with a family outdoor activity. Many wineries and tasting rooms are ideally located in the countryside surrounding tourist destinations and cities: think of your wine tasting day as an opportunity to explore a rural area. Outside of Portland, Oregon, for instance, lies the Willamette Valley brimming with wineries…and family fun. Before heading the casual and cozy Alloro Winery, we opt for a bike ride or a side trip to nearby Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum for hands-on, kid-centric entertainment.

No matter what region you’re visiting, before your wine tasting, parents can take the kids on a hike in the area, rent bikes and go for a bike ride, or tour a local museum or amusement park. Consider your wine tasting to be a complement to this family day outside, not the sole reason for it.

Select no more than one winery per visit:

Multi-vineyard wine trails are a lot of fun…for adults. Most kids, however, are pretty much of the opinion that if you’ve seen one vineyard, you’ve seen them all. Most tourists spend an average of one to two hours at a winery: plan for one and done to avoid tired, bored kids. Which winery to pick? Ask your hotel concierge or another local for the scoop on the most family-friendly winery in the region, or pick one closest to other area attractions.

Opt for a family-friendly tasting experience:

Yes, they do exist! The emphasis of a successful family day at a winery is not on the wine itself, but rather on the ambiance and togetherness. That said, my kids will tell you it’s not much fun if everyone has something good to drink except for them. We pick wineries that serve sparkling cider or root beer to the kids while adults enjoy tasting flights, and those that will put together a kid-friendly snack, such as a cheese plate.

Many wineries now allow picnics and other food items to be brought in by guests. Check ahead of time to make sure the one you want to visit has this policy, and if so, bring a spread! Look for wineries with plenty of outdoor space, and a staff who will welcome your kids. During a recent visit to Cliff Creek Cellars on the Upper Rogue Wine Trail of Southern Oregon, our kids were greeted by the vineyard dog and offered their pick of bocce ball or other lawn games by the winery staff.

Get on winery mailing lists to learn about events and festivals:

Many wineries host summer concert series, holiday events, and other family-friendly happenings. One of our favorite Easter Sundays was spent at Troon Vineyard, where the kids enjoyed an elaborate Easter egg hunt while adults enjoyed tastings and brunch. Other wineries in our region host bluegrass bands (perfect for dancing to, if you ask any toddler), art festivals, and local charity events. During the summer months, kids can spot hang-gliders coming in for landing at many Applegate Valley Wine Trail vineyards.

Above all, be responsible:

Of course, you want to be safe and set a good example to your children whenever you consume alcoholic beverages. If you think you’ll need it, hire a wine tour service to drive you to the tasting room and back again, or set out on a short walk with the family post-tasting before you get behind the wheel of your car. Most wineries don’t mind a bit if you linger: bring extra outdoor toys for the kids or even a pack of cards and play a family game before heading home.

Auto Travel with your Pets: 10 approaches for safety and security

September 13, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

We can all agree that pets are part of the family for most people. They are always there curled up or trotting next to us when taking morning walks. They greet us happily in the morning or when we get back home at the end of a long work workday. That’s why when a holiday season approaches, we can’t bear the thought of leaving them behind. It can be stressful for many pet owners to travel with them without making travel plans.

You need to take safety and security precautions so that you can have a relaxing and fun time for both you and your friend.

Here are the best safety tips for auto travel with your pets:

1. Go for a Test Drive

It is vital to prepare your pet in advance, especially if they are not accustomed to riding in the car. Give them time to adjust to the motion and see how they react. Some of them act just fine while others suffer from anxiety. Take them with you when running short errands a month in advance leading up to your departure. Start with short trips and then slowly stretch to longer rides.

2. Know the Laws of Travelling With Your Pet

Before you set out to travel, you should acquaint yourself with the laws of traveling with your pet. They may vary in different places, so you need to do a proper research. After all, you don’t want to get stuck with a hefty fine.

Ensure they have the right identification tags. Also get them microchipped as it can help you get reunited with them in case they get lost. You might be required to show your pet’s vaccination records or a certificate of health from your veterinarian. You can schedule a checkup a week before your planned trip. It will give you ample time to obtain copies of any paperwork you might be missing.

3. Build an Emergency Kit

Be prepared for anything when traveling with your pets. The emergency kit should include:

First aid supplies
Necessary paperwork
Extra water
Extra food
Medications your pets might be taking
A leash for your pets
Treats or toys

4. Proper Restraints

If you have time to wear a safety belt, why don’t you give your pet the same respect? They can create a safety risk for both of you if they cause a distraction while you’re driving, resulting in an accident. They should be on their leash when you stop for potty breaks. There are places with strict leash laws, so you don’t want to get in trouble.

5. Avoid Locking Your Dog in the Car

Never leave your pet unattended under no circumstances in the vehicle. You might find your window smashed by a Good Samaritan trying to rescue your pet. Other reasons might be because of the different seasons. It can get scorching in the interior of the vehicle during summer which can suffocate your pet. Temperatures can drop during winter hence making them freeze.

6. Prevent Tummy Troubles

Just like humans, pets do get carsick, especially if they travel right after a meal. You can feed them say 4 hours before going. Carry their water before hitting the road as unfamiliar water might upset their tummies.

7. Reserve Pet-Friendly Accommodations

If you plan on staying overnight, research on pet-friendly places on your route. You don’t want to get charged with extra fees or denied entry.

8. Keep Your Pets Entertained

Your pets might wind up getting restless if it’s a long journey. You should bring along their favorite toys and objects to keep them busy and entertained. You can stop at various points to let them out to stretch, but they should be on their leash.

9. Water, Food and Bathroom Breaks

If going on a long journey, it is essential to take breaks along the way. Stop and let your companions out to stretch. Never try feeding or giving water to them while in a moving vehicle. If it’s feeding time, give them time to digest.

10. Prepare for Carsickness

If your pet, especially a dog, is not used to road trips, it can get carsick. Therefore, consult your veterinarian to get the proper medication to help calm nausea.

It is a big responsibility to follow your pet’s safety tips, but at the end of it all, they are worth it. It can be fun with our four-legged members around. So, follow the above steps to have a comfortable and safe journey for everyone.

Do you have more information you think we should include in the list? Feel free to share in the comment box below.

Best essential oils for travel

August 9, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

Like everyone else (it seems), I’ve recently started using essential oils in my home and for my family. While I don’t deem them lifesaving (gasp!), I do believe essential oils add to our family’s well-being and overall health. Why not take this show on the road? We have a round up of the best essential oils for travel (and when to use them):

Three best essential oils for travel:

Motion sickness:

Several members of our family suffer from motion sickness in cars and on ships. I hate medicating for this, because no matter what we use, we seem to get drowsy. Before motion sickness can hit, I like to use essential oils topically (to the back of the ears, temples, or wrists) to fight nausea. It’s important to apply the essential oils before getting in the car!

Essential oils for motion sickness: ginger, peppermint, or spearmint. Alternatively, get a pre-made blend. We like Motion-Eaze, which is a combination of lavender, peppermint, frankincense, chamomile, myrrh, Ylang Ylang, and birch.

Immune defense:

This is a biggie. We do everything in our power to prevent sickness while on vacation. For immune defense, we diffuse essential oils at home pre-trip. If you have a small diffuser, you can even bring it along on road trips to use in hotel rooms and vacation homes. You can also just bring the oils, and add a few drops to a bowl of boiling water to breathe in.

Essential oils for immune defense: clove, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus, rosemary. Or use a blend like Thieves. We are using Best Friend, from Better Essentials. Better Essentials makes blends nearly identical to those made by the big essential oil makers, at a lower cost. Their oils are 100% pure, therapeutic grade, and third-party tested.

Sleep:

Sleep is absolutely essential (no pun intended!) while on vacation. To assist with sleep in hotel rooms and other unfamiliar places, we apply essential oil to our wrists, plus perhaps a dab behind the ears. You can also spray pillows lightly. I just don’t suggest doing this in enclosed spaces like airplanes, as the scent could bother others.

Essential oils for sleep: lavender, or a blend like Breathe. We are using Fresh Air from Better Essentials (their version of Breathe), or we use pure lavender. Hard to beat it!

How to conveniently bring essential oils:

Luckily, essential oils come, by their very nature, in small packages. They are easy to bring along on road trips in any first aid kit or medication kit, and easy to bring for air travel in a 3-1-1 bag. Almost all are under 3 ounces. Several travel-sized diffusers are on the market, but we don’t bother with this: for our use on the road, we apply our essential oils topically. However you decide to use your oils, make sure you buy therapeutic grade, and place all oils in a plastic bag or otherwise airtight container. This will contain the scent (when you don’t want it) and also prevent any leakage.

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Do you use essential oils? What are your favorite blends?

Road Trip Safety: What to do if your car breaks down

July 19, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

A few years ago, we were ten minutes into a six-hour road trip when we ran over a nail in the road and got a flat tire. Yep, only ten minutes in…and while it was a bummer to be sidelined so quickly, at least we were close to home. Within a few hours, we were back on the road. But what if you were further afield?

Any time your car breaks down, it’s natural for panic to set in—but what if you’re miles and miles into a road trip? What if you’re in unfamiliar territory and have no cell phone signal? As difficult as it is, don’t panic. Here are a few things to do if you have to take that gut-wrenching park on the side of the highway:

1. Move away from the car if you see smoke. It’s very unlikely for modern cars to catch fire, but it does happen. If you see smoke or otherwise suspect staying in or near the car is dangerous, move away. Your safety is the top priority.

2. Put on your hazards and set out flares if you have them. Flares should be part of any roadside emergency kit. However, if you don’t have them, at the bare minimum put on the hazards. This will minimize your risk (and the risk of a car accidentally hitting yours).

3. Call for help if you have a signal. Most insurance companies include roadside assistance with policies. However, the waits can be long. If you do have a roadside assistance program, call them first so you can get help as soon as possible. Next, call someone nearby who may be able to help. If that isn’t an option, call someone you trust to let them know what happened and where you are.

4. Start walking if you have no cell service but know a store is nearby. Maybe you recently passed an interstate gas station or saw signs for a small town within a couple of miles. Only start walking if you’re confident that you can safely and quickly get to a business where you can then call for help. If possible, walk against traffic so you can see cars as they approach.

5. Make a sign for jumper cables and wait by your car if you know your battery is dead. It’s rare that a car will stop working suddenly on the highway because of a dead battery, but it can happen—especially if you recently turned the car off. If you’re certain that’s the issue and have jumper cables, hold them up to passing cars. If you don’t, make a “jumper cables” sign with your hands to let passing cars know what you need. It shouldn’t take long for someone to stop.

The best way to avoid getting stranded is to take precautions. Make sure you’ve ticked off these tasks before taking your next road trip:

1. Get your car serviced. Regular maintenance is the best way to stay safe and spot any troubling signs before they get out of control. Maintenance checks are fast, affordable, and save you money in the long run. Aim for at least one car service per year.

2. Make a roadside kit and always keep it with you. This should include jumper cables, safety items such as pepper spray, solar-powered chargers, a wind-up radio, road flares, and a first-aid kit. Hopefully you’ll never need it, but you’ll be glad to have it if you do.

3. Choose a wireless plan with good coverage. It’s tempting to save money on a bargain carrier, but you’ll regret it if you travel to a more rural area without coverage. The best way to get help is simply to make a phone call. Don’t opt to take that away from yourself.

In the worst-case scenario, you might have to sell your car if it breaks down. If you must, you can find a company near you. For example, a company like Junk That Car in Temecula will purchase your car and tow it away getting rid of the hassles associated with a broken-down car.

Another way to increase safety on a road trip? Don’t go alone. There’s safety and power in numbers.

Renting an RV: Tips for RV summer travel

July 5, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

As a parent, I understand it can be appealing to rent an RV for a family road trip. Your schedule is your own (and so is your bathroom!), and you’re not confined to airports, flight delays, or even hotel reservations. On a whim, you can detour to visit something new, or delay a day to remain somewhere special. Before you take the plunge and rent an RV for a family road trip, however, read the following tips gleaned from hard-earned experience.

Weigh the costs to have an affordable RV experience:

Consider what is typical for you while on vacation: do you seek a relaxed experience? Are you content exploring a single destination for longer stretches of time, and do you want the flexibility of making your own meals? Would you rather have your own space (which is mobile!) than nightly hotel rooms that are less flexible? The amount of vacation money you’ll save by renting an RV depends on your road trip style.

Ways to save money with an RV:

Stay in one place longer to save on fuel.
Plan to cook in your RV or over a campfire.
RV reasonably close to home.
Skip hotel rooms (more on this below).

If, for example, you normally spend a decent chunk of your vacation budget on hotel rooms, the $30-$45 per night on an RV camping space will be a deal. Of course, if you’re accustomed to renting tent sites, you’ll need to budget for the upgrade necessary for an RV space. As a beginning guide, use this Vacation Value Generator from Go RVing to directly compare vacation prices.

Embrace the RV vacation lifestyle during your road trip:

Repeat after me: you’re not in a hurry. You’re not in a hurry. You’re not in a hurry… The beauty of RV vacations is the slower pace. Plan a route that takes you along scenic byways and off the interstate. Create an itinerary that ensures less mileage and more pit stops. In most cases, it’s more affordable to rent and return your RV at the same city. In other words, travel in a loop instead of in Point A to Point B style.

Consider driving or flying to your destination, then renting an RV:

This combination seemed perfect for us. We knew we wanted to fly from our hometown to our primary destination (in this case, Chicago). From there, we wanted to take it slow, so we planned an RV road trip around the Great Lakes. We didn’t need to rent a car, and skipped all hotel and dining costs while in the region. After our Great Lakes tour, it made since for us to fly to our next destination. The moral of the story? Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and create the transportation combination that works for your family.

Eat on the road so you don’t feel deprived of restaurant dining:

If the thought of preparing all meals while RVing doesn’t appeal, try these ‘tricks’ to feel less deprived of restaurant food:

stop at farmer’s markets and roadside stands en route
eat a big breakfast out (the cheapest meal of the day) and skip lunch entirely
let the kids cook: in an RV, it’s somehow fun to plan and create meals
cook over a campfire (we love this Guide to Campfire Cooking)

Get more tips on RV rental affordability at GoRVing.com. As I disclose whenever applicable, this post was written in partnership with Go RVing. I found the information on GoRVing.com to be useful for planning an RV trip, and hope you will, too.

Photo credit: Trekaroo/mcfam

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Road trips with teens

March 28, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

Anytime you travel with kids, you can expect a bit of work. Things that worked on your last trip might not work on your next one, especially if you will be traveling with a teen. This is also especially true if your travel includes hours upon hours of being in the car. Fine tuning travel with teens can be something that is tricky but especially when that travel will be in the car. A little bit of preparation can go a long way.

Driving

Depending on how old your teen is, learning to drive, or driving might be a segment of your itinerary. Don’t forget about that. Learning the ins and outs of driving can go a long way toward making sure that your teen is engaged while you are going down the road. If your teen has their learner’s permit or their license, make sure that you let them get behind the wheel… at least for a little while. Before you do that, though, make sure that they are listed on your auto insurance policy.

Involve Them

We all know that the best vacations are the ones that have something for everyone. Before you plan the itinerary for your trip, talk to your teen and find out what they would like to do. Traveling across the USA with kids can be more fun for them if they are involved. That doesn’t mean that you need to let them have complete control over the planning of the trip, though. Maybe they can help with narrowing down some of the possible activities or tours, choose a hotel, or even choose what roadside attractions you might stop to see. Giving them a say in the planning of the trip means that it will be more difficult for them to complain while you are on the trip.

Food

When you are traveling with teens on a road trip, you can really rack up the costs when it comes to eating. Kids can be picky, and finding a place to eat that you can all agree on can be a trial, too. However, if you have room in your vehicle for a cooler, you can alleviate this issue. Pack a cooler with somewhat healthy food that you guys can make meals out of or healthy snacks. Then, when you stop, it can be to see the sights as opposed to having to stop just to eat. This can save you money while also saving you time on the road.

Keep Them Charged

You can find internet access even when you are in remote locations nowadays. It might make sense to request that your teens take a breather from their iPods, phones, and other electronic devices, but taking those things completely away can mean wreaking havoc on your peace.

Keep Them Connected

Going a bit further with keeping them charged… Most teens are constantly messaging people or on social media sites such as Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook. If they do this at home, it wouldn’t be right to all of a sudden change the rules while you are driving down the road. Allow them to communicate with their friends. If you made sure to do your homework before your trip, the chances will be good that they will be bragging about their trip or sharing photos from the trip.

Space to Pace

When you spend an entire day in the car, you will need to have a bit of time to stretch your legs. This is something that applies to all members of the family, not just the parents. Try to choose resorts or hotels where there will be space to pace after you guys have spent a grueling day on the road. Learning about the grounds of the property before you get there will let you know how much freedom you can give your teen while you are there. There are even some locations where the staff will get to know your child by sight and name, and this can give them even more freedom because they will all be watching out for them wherever they might wander off to.

How to prepare meals in a camper van

January 31, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

When your family hits the road in a camper van, you want your kids to be well nourished throughout your journey. After all, well-fed kids are generally happy kids, which can make your road trip more enjoyable. However, a small campervan kitchen might pose a challenge and leave you scrambling for diverse and delicious meal options that your youngsters can enjoy. Once you’ve devised your road trip and secured your camper van rental, take time to meal plan before you hit the open road.

Know What You’re Working With

Before your trip, familiarize yourself with the campervan kitchen. Typically, you’ll have a refrigerator, a couple of burners, and a small grill. So, while real estate might be small, you’ll have enough basic tools to throw together a variety of meals for your hungry family.

Focus on One-Pot Meals

You don’t have to rely on hot dogs every night—even if your kids might love that—when you’re road tripping in a campervan. However, you do need to get creative to provide a well-rounded meal that doesn’t require too many pots and pans. One-skillet meals are a smart solution when you’re cooking in a campervan. For breakfast, brown sausage in a skillet, pour eggs over the cooked sausage, and top with cheese. You’ll have a hearty breakfast skillet, which you can serve on its own or wrap in a tortilla to make breakfast burritos. Diced potatoes, veggies, and kielbasa or turkey sausage is another mouthwatering meal that requires just one skillet.

Get Grilling

If your campervan includes a small grill, take advantage of this versatile appliance. Hot dogs and hamburgers are, of course, a simple and kid-friendly option when you’re exploring the open road, but don’t limit yourself to these classics. Tortillas can double as pizza crust—just top them with sauce and your kids’ favorite toppings for a simple and crowd-pleasing dish. Enjoy a Mexican-inspired night with bean and cheese quesadillas cooked on the grill. Grill packets are also convenient when you’re on the road, and they minimize messes. Chopped veggies and potatoes, along with an easy-to-grill meat, wrapped in aluminum foil requires little effort and delivers a hearty meal every time.

Minimize Cooking But Maximize Meals

Don’t spend too much time on your journey in the campervan kitchen. Instead, focus on ways to cook in bulk for your family and use up every last ingredient to create a diverse menu that pleases both kids and adults. For example, chicken breasts have a variety of uses, so cook several pounds of breasts at once. You can boil the chicken and shred it or fire up the campervan grill. Make chicken salad for sandwiches, add shredded chicken to tortillas for tacos or quesadillas, or toss some barbecue sauce on it and add it to a bun. This way, you’ll devise several convenient meals in one cooking session, which leaves you more time to enjoy your adventure.

Tip: Looking to have a camper van adventure outside of the states? Check out RV hire Australia for great options.

Even though the quarters are tight and the resources limited, cooking in a campervan doesn’t have to be frustrating. You can keep your family well fed during your getaway with thoughtful meal planning, simple recipes, and versatile ingredients.

Image BY studio tdes via flickr.com under a Creative Commons License CC BY 2.0