Road Trip Reality: How We Survive (and Kinda Thrive!) on Long Drives with Three Little Ones

Okay, you guys. We just got back from another epic (and by epic, I mean sometimes chaotic, sometimes magical) road trip with our three girls, Stella, Ozzy, and baby Cherry. And when I say long, I mean *long*. We're talking hours and hours in the car, and if you've ever done that with even one tiny human, you know it's a whole different ballgame. Add two more, and it's like you're playing on expert mode hahah. But honestly, even with the jet lag and the tired eyes, I wouldn't trade it for anything. These trips are where some of our best family memories are made, even the ones that involve a lot of crying (mostly mine, ngl).

I wanted to share all our unfiltered thoughts and strategies because I know so many of you are thinking about doing road trips with your families, and it can feel super daunting. I get it! I've been there, staring at the map feeling like, 'How in the world are we gonna do this?' But we've learned a few things along the way, and I feel like if we can do it, anyone can. So grab a snack, get comfy, and let's talk road trip survival!

Embracing the Minivan Life (No Shame Here!)

First things first, let's talk about the vehicle. For us, it's the minivan, and I'm not gonna lie, it's been a game-changer. I know some people are like, 'Oh, minivans are so not cool,' but idc! It's practical, it's spacious, and it makes our lives so much easier. When you're packing for five people, plus car seats, plus luggage, plus all the snacks and entertainment, you need all the space you can get. We used to try to cram into SUVs, and it was just a nightmare. The minivan gives everyone a little more breathing room, which is crucial for preventing meltdowns (again, mostly mine hahah). Tanner was a little hesitant at first, but now he's a minivan convert too. He sees the light!

Having that extra space means we can spread out a bit, the girls can actually reach their things without climbing over each other, and we can fit all the strollers and bags without playing Tetris every time we stop. It just reduces so much stress before you even hit the road. If you're on the fence, trust me on this one. Embrace the minivan, your future self will thank you.

The Art of the Snack Bag & Entertainment Bins

Okay, this is probably my number one tip: SNACKS. You cannot have enough snacks. I repeat, you cannot have enough snacks. I have a dedicated 'snack bag' that is easily accessible to me (or Tanner) in the front seat. It's filled with things that aren't super messy, don't need refrigeration, and are relatively healthy-ish. Think fruit pouches, crackers, pretzels, dried fruit, granola bars. Things that can buy you 10-15 minutes of quiet when someone starts to get hangry. Because let's be real, hunger is the fastest way to a tantrum, for kids AND adults.

Then, for entertainment, each of the older girls (Stella and Ozzy) gets their own 'activity bin' or bag. I usually hit up Target's dollar spot or the dollar store before a trip and grab a bunch of little things: new coloring books, crayons, sticker pads, small puzzles, maybe a new little toy car or a doll. The key is that these are *new* things. The novelty factor is huge. I don't give them everything at once; I dole them out strategically when boredom starts to set in. It's like a little surprise every hour or so. For Cherry, it's mostly soft books and her favorite teethers, plus lots of cuddles from whoever isn't driving hahah.

We also do screen time, and I'm not ashamed to admit it! We download movies and shows onto iPads before we leave. It's a lifesaver for those really long stretches. We have headphones for the older girls, which is amazing for keeping the peace. It's all about balance, right? Sometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do to make it through.

Strategic Stops: More Than Just Gas and Bathrooms

This is where I feel like we've really figured things out. We don't just stop for gas and bathroom breaks. We plan for *fun* stops. We look at the map beforehand and try to find cool parks, playgrounds, or even just a big, open field where the girls can run around and burn off some energy. We aim for a longer stop every 2-3 hours if possible, especially with Cherry being so little. Getting out of the car, stretching, and letting them play freely for 30 minutes to an hour makes a huge difference in their mood (and ours!).

Sometimes it's a quick picnic lunch at a rest stop with a playground. Other times, we've found little roadside attractions that are just quirky enough to be entertaining for a few minutes. It breaks up the monotony of the drive and prevents that restless, cooped-up feeling. Tanner is really good at finding these little gems, he's my co-pilot and my hype man all rolled into one. He makes sure we stick to the schedule but also keeps it fun for everyone. I couldn't do it without him, ngl.

Managing Expectations & Embracing the Chaos

This might be the most important tip of all: go into it with low expectations. Seriously. It's not going to be a perfectly smooth, Instagram-worthy journey the entire time. There will be crying. There will be spilled snacks. There will be 'Are we there yet?' a million times. There will be moments where you question all your life choices hahah. But that's okay! That's just part of traveling with little kids.

I used to get so stressed when things didn't go according to plan, but I've learned to just roll with it. If someone needs an extra long cuddle, we give it. If we need to pull over for 15 minutes because everyone is losing their minds, we do it. The destination will still be there. The memories you're making are in those imperfect, messy moments too. I try to remind myself that these are the years where they're little and everything is an adventure, even a car ride. It's about the journey, not just the arrival, right? And sometimes the journey involves a lot of 'Baby Shark' on repeat and me stress-eating all the good snacks. It's fine. It's all fine.

The Why Behind the Drive: Family Time & Memories

At the end of the day, why do we do these crazy road trips? For us, it's all about family time. It's about seeing new places, experiencing things together, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Even the challenging parts become funny stories later. We want our girls to grow up remembering these adventures, the good and the chaotic.

My mom was a single mom and she worked so hard to give us experiences, and I want to do the same for my girls. These trips are an investment in our family, in our bond. We get to talk, sing songs, play games, and just *be* together without the distractions of home. It's a special kind of connection you get on the road. And when we finally arrive, tired but happy, and see their faces light up, it's all worth it. Every single sticky handprint, every 'I'm bored,' every extra bathroom stop. It's all part of our story.

So if you're thinking about hitting the road with your crew, I say go for it! Pack your snacks, plan your stops, lower your expectations, and just embrace the beautiful, messy adventure. You got this, mama! And if you need a little extra encouragement, just remember us out here, probably singing 'Let It Go' for the 500th time and wondering if we packed enough wipes. You're not alone! Sending you all the good road trip vibes. ❤