5 tips for a road trip with your kids

A trip in your car; enjoying the delightful freedom of the open road! These trips are not just about the destination. Rather, the holiday feeling begins the moment you get into your car. Will a long car ride with your baby or toddler be as delightful, however? With these tips, you can be sure it will!

Check, check, checklist! Start making a list of all the things your little one needs on the road early. It's a good idea to write down what you'll need during the trip, and which things you'll only need once you've arrived. That way, you can quickly and efficiently pack your car.

What should be within hand's reach during the trip?

• A diaper bag with extra hydrophilic cloths and wet wipes

• Spare clothing

• Food and drinks

• Favourite toy for entertainment on the road

• Travel bed

The AeroMoov Instant Travel Cot is so compact that you can easily put it at the top of your suitcase.

It's important to protect your little one against sun and heat in the car as well. Make sure to put proper blinds on the windows and place an Air layer on the car seat. The special eponymous 3D air layer in the Air Layer allows air to constantly circulate behind your child's back, legs and head. This will reduce the risk of overheating and helps against sweatiness. No more complaints about wet backs or sticky hair!

Extra tip: An Air Layer is also an ideal way to keep your little one cool and dry in their pushchair as well!

Especially for babies, we recommend a maximum of 2 hours of uninterrupted time in a car seat. However, your toddler will need to stretch their legs every 2 or 3 hours, too. Plan ahead, and find some places where you can schedule a few longer breaks.

You can use the Instant Travel Cot to create a safe place for your little one to rest on the road in a wink! Or you can use it as a play pen for your toddler! With the sunshade, you can even create a pleasant, cool spot of shade. You can quickly fold the AeroMoov travel bed again when it's time to go.

If you have a baby, we recommend sticking to your regular feeding times. If the weather is hot, you can even give them a little extra (milk-based) baby food to make sure your little one stays hydrated. These feeding times are easy to combine with breaks from driving. Feed your baby, change their diaper and let them play in the travel cot for a little while. This way, once you continue your journey again, odds are that your baby will fall asleep quickly.

If you have a toddler, it’s easier to give them a drinking bottle with water, a biscuit or a slice of fruit. You can also use this as a distraction during difficult moments (we can all use that sometimes). No worries if your little one spills something. The Air Layer will keep your car seat clean, and you can put it in the laundry machine at 40°C after your trip.

You should try and maintain the healthy sleeping habits and rhythm of your child during your vacation. Even when you're on the road. Regular feeding times and plenty of breaks with time for playing are a great start. What else can you do?

Obscure the windows with proper blinds wherever possible. Bring ‘home’ with you, in the form of your little one's favourite plushie, for instance. You can also use a wrap-around blanket in the car seat to give your baby a sense of security. Make sure your car radio is not too loud. The buzz of the engine and the faint swaying of the car will help your little one fall asleep.

Most of all, though: relax! If you start your vacation relaxed, your little one will calm down more easily, too.

Enjoy your trip!