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Road trip season is here, and we are getting ready to head out on a 12 hour drive with twin toddlers, a 6-year-old, and a 10-year-old. If you’re feeling overwhelmed about taking a long drive with little ones, I’ve got you. I’ve created a free printable, our Road Trip Entertainment Checklist. On our last trip, this list of activities actually kept my kids entertained and kept me sane. Grab it below and keep reading for all my tried-and-true twin toddler road trip tips.
Why You Need a Road Trip Planner When You Have Kids
Taking a road trip with toddlers (especially twins) is not just a hop-in-the-car kind of thing. I use a full-on road trip planner to map stops, time snacks, plan naps (well – you can’t blame a girl for trying but this one is a ‘give it to God’ situation), and keep our kids from melting down every 20 minutes.
My Must-Haves for a Smooth Twin Toddler Road Trip
Here’s exactly what we bring for entertainment and sanity on the road:
✔️ Wrapped Small Toys
This one is gold. I wrap little toys (Dollar Tree, Happy Meal, whatever) and hand one out every hour or two. It keeps the excitement going, breaks up the trip, and gives them something to look forward to.
✔️ Audiobooks and Podcasts
I download kid-friendly stories and fun podcasts ahead of time. “Brains On” and “Story Pirates” are always hits.
✔️ Sing-Along Playlist
Our road trip playlist is stacked with kid favorites and a few of my own for balance. Singing together keeps moods high (and everyone awake when needed).
✔️ Travel Games
Magnetic puzzles, toddler bingo, and matching cards are easy to pack and keep little hands busy without making a mess.
✔️ Drawing Supplies
Color Wonder books plus a lap desk = mess-free creativity. My twins love to “draw what they see out the window.”
✔️ Surprise Bags
I stash a few Ziploc bags with snacks, stickers, and simple toys. When we hit the first sign of restlessness, out comes a surprise bag.
✔️ Storytelling Cube or Cards
These are a fun way to pass time as a family. We take turns making up silly stories based on what we roll or pick. The older boys love getting involved too.
✔️ Window Clings
Reusable window clings are one of my favorite secret weapons. They let the kids decorate their windows over and over, and they’re easy to pack.
Plan Ahead for Travel Stops
I try to plan breaks every 2–3 hours. Look for parks, open rest stops, or even Starbucks with clean bathrooms. It gives the kids a chance to move and burn some energy.
Final Tips
Snacks are everything. Overpack snacks. And don’t forget a change of clothes for each kid (and maybe yourself). Travel with toddlers is wild – but it can be fun with a little planning and a lot of grace.
Download your Road Trip Entertainment Checklist below and enjoy your next family road trip with a little more peace and a lot more fun. Click here to download.
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