Hit the road this summer with your toddler using these 10 easy, practical tips to keep them happy, entertained and your trip stress-free.
Summertime brings long days, open schedules and the perfect chance to explore new parts of the country. So pack your car, bring your sense of adventure (and your patience), and get ready to hit the road. Whether you're travelling for a couple of hours or several days, road trips don't have to mean tantrums and backseat meltdowns. With a little planning and the right strategies, you can keep your toddler engaged and entertained, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.
1. Frequent Breaks are Key
Make sure to factor in time for several stops along the way. We recommend taking a break every 2–3 hours for bathroom runs, leg stretching and letting your toddler burn off some energy. Try to plan stops around fun local sights or parks. Packing lunch? Eat outside and let your kids run around while you enjoy a break from the road.
Stay flexible and be prepared for delays and hiccups. At the end of the day, arriving an hour late and smiling is better than arriving on time but stressed and unhappy.
2. Celebrate Positive Behaviour
As parents, you’re always working to strike a balance between setting boundaries and showing appreciation. While you might worry about spoiling your kids, recognizing their positive behavior with small, thoughtful rewards can be a powerful tool. Whether it’s offering a favorite snack, letting them choose a little treat at the gas station or giving a bit of extra screen time, these small gestures can go a long way in encouraging cooperation and keeping the peace, especially when your sanity is on the line.
Tip: Head to your local dollar store beforehand and grab a few little items to surprise your toddler with throughout the trip. Keep it simple and inexpensive, think colouring books, sticker sheets or small toys. This gives your child something to look forward to and encourages positive behaviour. Wrapping them up adds an extra layer of excitement.
3. Red Light, Green Light System
For families with slightly older toddlers, try the red light, green light system. Create a sign to hang in the car with a green light on one side and a red light on the other. At the top of each hour, turn the sign to green for 15 minutes. During this time, your toddler can ask for snacks, say “how much longer?” and share all their random thoughts. After 15 minutes, flip it to red and encourage them to entertain themselves until the next green window.
Tip: The younger you introduce this system, the easier it becomes. With time, your toddler will understand the rhythm and learn to respect quiet periods in the car.
4. Keep a Steady Stream of Snacks
Sometimes, it’s okay to let the usual snack rules slide. After all, it’s vacation and a few extra treats won’t hurt. Pack a variety of toddler-friendly snacks like crackers, cheese sticks, fruit slices and even a few fun options like cookies or chips.
That said, be smart about distribution. You don’t want to be two hours into an eight-hour drive and realize you’re out of snacks.
Tip: Use a clean tackle box or bead organizer to portion out different snacks. It’s a fun and organized way for your toddler to snack without creating chaos.
5. Bring Entertainment Variety
Children get bored quickly and tend to jump between activities. Pack a mix of entertainment: old-fashioned car games, colouring books, sticker activities, magnetic toys and downloaded shows or movies. Try games like I Spy, counting red cars, or family sing-alongs. Audiobooks are great for winding down, and many toddler-friendly podcasts are designed just for young listeners.
Balance is key, try alternating screen time with interactive play. For example, aim for one hour of non-screen activities followed by 30 minutes of screen time to keep things fresh and engaging.
6. Create a Cozy Environment
Whether your toddler naps regularly or not, try to make the backseat feel as calm and comfy as possible. Use window shades to block sunlight, bring along favourite blankets and pillows and dress your toddler in soft, comfortable clothes that make it easier for them to relax.
Tip: If you’re driving in the evening, change your toddler into pajamas after dinner. It sets the tone for bedtime and makes the transition into a hotel bed or travel crib much smoother.
7. Aim for Organization
An organized car makes for a smoother ride for everyone. Toddlers are less restless in a clean, tidy space and you’ll appreciate having essentials within reach. Invest in a backseat organizer or hang an over-the-door shoe organizer behind the front seat to hold snacks, books, wipes, toys and more.
Keep a dedicated bag with comfort items and favourites close at hand. You don’t want to realize your child’s stuffed animal is buried under a pile of luggage in the trunk. Also, make sure to have wet wipes, hand sanitizer and a basic first aid kit easily accessible.
8. Hand Out Jobs
Toddlers love feeling important and being “in charge.” Assign your child a simple, fun job for the trip like snack manager, playlist supervisor or adventure photographer. These roles give them a sense of ownership and can help reduce boredom and fussiness.
Tip: Consider buying a small, child-friendly camera to let them take photos throughout the trip. Print the pictures after your trip and help them create a simple scrapbook of your adventures.
9. Create a Post-Ride Ritual
Long days in the car can be draining, so give your toddler something fun to look forward to at each stop. Maybe it’s a special snack, a silly “we made it” dance or a short walk around your destination. These little rituals help toddlers transition from the car to a new space and release built-up energy.
Bonus: Let them lead a mini “tour” of the hotel room or Airbnb. Giving them a role right after arrival can help ground them and ease post-travel fussiness.
10. Be Flexible
You may need to take an unexpected detour, stop for a roadside attraction or say yes to an unplanned ice cream break. If your child spots something they’re excited about, and it’s doable, go for it. Some of the best memories come from these spontaneous moments.
Remember, it’s about the journey not just the destination. Be open to changes in plans, and you might find the trip becomes even more memorable than expected.
Don’t let having a little one deter you from hitting the road this summer. With the right mix of planning and flexibility, a road trip with your toddler can be fun, rewarding and full of memories. From car-friendly games to cozy naps, tasty snacks to silly traditions, there’s plenty you can do to make the journey smoother for everyone. Pack well, stay flexible and enjoy the ride, tantrums and all.
