How to Survive Long Drives with Kids – Real Parenting Tips 🚗

We’ve all been there - a long drive ahead, snacks packed, kids buckled in… and within 10 minutes: “Are we there yet?”

Long car trips with little ones can feel like an endurance sport, but with a few real-life mum strategies, you can turn chaos into calm (most of the time!).

Whether you're off on a road trip or just facing hours of holiday traffic, here are tried-and-true tips from Aussie mums who’ve done it - and survived to tell the tale.

Tip from Jess, mum of 3 in Melbourne:

"Snacks are your best friend. I portion out a mix of healthy and treat options in little containers so I can hand them out slowly - and avoid the sugar crash."

✅ Mini bento boxes

✅ Popcorn, veggie chips, fruit straps

✅ Surprise snacks in foil for fun reveals

Podcasts, audiobooks, or curated Spotify playlists can save your sanity.

Top Mum-Approved Picks:

• Bluey podcast

• Story Time by ABC Kids

• The Beanies Music

• Classical music playlists to help wind them down

Pro tip: Let each child pick a podcast - it gives them a sense of control and something to look forward to.

Keep boredom at bay with a kit packed with non-messy fun:

✅ Sticker books

✅ Window markers

✅ Puzzle pads

✅ Fidget toys

✅ Reusable water painting pads

Store everything in a soft pouch they can keep nearby (no asking Mum every 5 mins!).

“We plan a proper stop every 90 minutes - even if it’s just to stretch at a servo or picnic spot,” says Lisa, mum of two from Brisbane.

Research child-friendly cafés or parks along the way and make them part of the adventure.

Think of the car like an airplane - you need:

✅ Change of clothes (for each kid)

✅ Wet wipes + hand sanitiser

✅ Small bin bag

✅ First-aid kit

✅ Chargers & power banks

Trust us, you’ll thank yourself.

Plan your departure around nap time if possible. A sleeping child = a peaceful car.

Even non-nappers might doze off with a full tummy and calming music.

Older kids love to feel involved. Make them:

• The “navigator” with a kid-friendly map

• Snack distributor

• Entertainment DJ

Wrap up a few mini gifts (under $5) and hand them out at milestones: every hour, at the halfway mark, etc. It keeps morale high and gives kids something to look forward to.

Long drives often mean stopovers, attractions, or food stops. With MyLittleRewards.com, you can access discounts on cafes, kids activities, and family-friendly experiences across Australia.