How to have an enjoyable family road trip with kids and teenagers

Tips for long car trips with kids and teenagers

Do you know where you're going on your road trip?

It sounds simple, but ensure you've got all the directions you'll need to get you to your destination, and you are aware of any issues such as current roadworks, weather forecasts and any scheduled events that may affect your journey.

If you haven’t yet decided, we have some great ideas on road trips you can take around Australia.

If you can, try to leave and fill up on petrol early to save and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination, making the trip as stress-free as possible.

Always let someone know your destination and when you are scheduled to return. 

Is everyone in the family comfortable in the car?

There’s nothing worse than feeling cramped for an extended period. That two-door sportscar might have been trendy in your 20s, but with three surly teenagers in the back, it may not be as comfortable.

Try to ensure everyone is as comfortable as possible – for younger kids, this may mean adding some pillows and a blanket (and rotation for the dreaded middle seat), and for teenagers and adults, backrests, a travel pillow and a car that is clean and organised.

Make sure you’re dressed comfortably, too – you’re going to be sitting for some time. 

Has your car had a recent vehicle inspection?

Remember being trapped in your parents' Volvo with nothing but a roll-down window and an icy pole to cool you down on a 40-degree day? Not everything nostalgic is better. Ensure your car is up to date with its service requirements and everything is in good working order for a long road trip with kids and teens.

Do you have food and drink prepared?

Often on road trips, the only places to stop are service stations and fast-food restaurants, which can have long queues and unhealthy options.

Make sure you bring along snacks and enough water (with reusable drink bottles), or if you don’t have time, think about building in a stop or two to unwind at a local café or general store.

Here’s some great places to stop on the Great Ocean Road and the Hume Highway.

Have you got a contingency plan?

It’s always good to carry extras for those ‘just in case’ moments in an emergency car kit. As well as running through a Road Trip Checklist, make sure you are carrying items such as:

• wet wipes
• nappies (if needed)
• toilet paper
• jumpers or coats
• bathers and towels
• torch
• cash
• socks
• First Aid kit
• extra water
• jumper leads
• a paper or printed map
• phone charger
• snacks
• water

Do you know the road rules for the place you are going?

While a lot of Victoria has similar road rules – for example, we all stick to the left – rules can change slightly depending on the city or state you are in. Whether it’s Melbourne’s famous hook turns to Sydney’s one-way streets, make sure you understand the road rules of the destination you are heading in.