Taking three kids (12, 9, 7) on a 6-hour drive next month. Already have: coloring books, tablets loaded with shows, snacks, travel pillows. Feel like I'm forgetting something obvious. What's kept other people's sanity intact on long drives?
Window shades for the backseat if your car doesn't have them. Keeps the sun out of their eyes and makes napping easier. Plus a lap pillow each helps.
Those tablets are going to be your MVP for hours 4-6. Make sure they're fully charged and maybe bring a power bank for backup.
Portable DVD player if you haven't gone full tablet. My kids still prefer movies over screens sometimes. Also bring wet wipes, absolute lifesaver.
Snacks are key for the 9 and 7 year old. I'd say bring way more snacks than you think you need. Also gum helps with ear pressure for some kids.
Consider downloading some educational games on those tablets too so they feel like they're not just wasting time. Makes you feel better as a parent somehow.
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Pro tip: audiobooks or podcasts designed for families kept my sanity intact on long drives. Something everyone can listen to together.