Over the years, we’ve learned that driving to our holiday destinations in continental Europe is by far the easiest and least stressful option for our family. With four children, the idea of airports, luggage limits, and keeping everyone entertained in queues just doesn’t appeal. Hopping in the car, loading up everything we think we might need, and setting off at our own pace feels calmer, cheaper, and much more flexible.
One of the biggest perks of driving is the freedom to pack without worrying about weight limits or suitcase space. If we think we’ll need it - or even might need it - it goes in the car. And honestly, that peace of mind is priceless.
Here’s what we always take with us on long car journeys, and the things that make the biggest difference to keeping everyone happy.
1. Each Child Packs Their Own Rucksack
This has become a little tradition in our house. Before we leave, each child packs a small rucksack with anything they want for the journey and for when we arrive. It gives them a sense of independence and stops us from having to guess what they’ll want.
Their bags usually include:
- A reading book or two
- Colouring books and notebooks
- Their Yoto player
- A favourite cuddly toy
- A couple of random toys they’re currently obsessed with
It’s amazing how much entertainment they can get out of a few well‑chosen bits and pieces. And because they’ve chosen everything themselves, they’re far more likely to actually use it.
2. Screens Are Absolutely Allowed
We are completely fine with screens in the car. In fact, they’re a lifesaver on long journeys. Before we go, we make sure everything is fully charged and loaded with plenty of offline content.
We use Amazon Kids, which is brilliant because the children can download anything they like from the available selection - all for free - before we leave. It means they have a mix of shows, games, and apps ready to go, and we don’t have to worry about Wi‑Fi or data.
Long drives are not the time to be precious about screen time. If it keeps everyone calm and happy, it’s a win.
3. Snacks… and More Snacks
If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that children will ask for snacks constantly on long journeys. And honestly, I’d much rather have something ready to hand back than listen to the chorus of “I’m hungry” until the next service station.
We always pack:
- A big bag or box of snacks within easy reach
- Individual snack boxes for each child
- Drinks that won’t spill easily
At the moment, we’re trialling the melii snack boxes, which have little divided sections. They’re brilliant because:
- You can offer lots of variety
- Portions stay small
- You can adjust the size of the compartments
- It feels like a “snack plate”, which my kids love
The children get genuinely excited to see what’s inside their snack box for the journey. It adds a bit of novelty and stops the endless rummaging for food.
Having snacks ready also means fewer stops, which keeps the journey moving and avoids the temptation of expensive, less healthy service‑station options.
Why Driving Works So Well for Us
Driving gives us:
- Flexibility
- Space
- Control over our schedule
- The ability to pack everything we want
- A calmer start and end to the holiday
With four kids, that combination is unbeatable. The journey becomes part of the adventure rather than something to endure.
