5. Make it special for those with special needs. A great tip I have from another military spouse friend who has special needs children is to make them a travel book. Print out pictures and information of the places you’ll be staying/visiting and pictures of family members and make a travel book for them. The idea is to lower their anxiety of new places, faces and spaces. They will know what to expect when they arrive. Priceless!
6. Last, but not least…be prepared. I know this is probably sounds like overkill, but the better prepared on the road you are the better your trip will be.
A small thing like bringing along a printed map just in case GPS isn’t working can save the day – and be fun for the kids. They can follow along with map so they feel like they are part of the trip.
Other no-brainers items are:
Extra blankets
Printed or paper map
Change of clothing for everyone
Paper towels within in reach
A trash bag or two
Military ID’s
Phone number to Tricare in your region
Water, lots of drinking water
A first-aid kit
Chargers for video games and phones
Check tires and purchase a tire gage
Take the car in for a quick tune up before you leave
Flashlight with new batteries
Car insurance cards
Jumper cables
A sense of humor
