We’ve been going on a lot of road trips lately, so I 100% get the urge for a change of scenery. But just because you’re in your car for days doesn’t mean you have to accept messes, disorganization or even nonstop fast food.

(This road trip list is an excellent foundation. If you want to go way in-depth to take all the stress out of planning a road trip, check out my new online course, Rock Your Road Trip!)

These road trip essentials will help you keep your car clean, organized and safe. This list will recommend the best products to keep your food safe and tasty. And if you’re adventuring with kids, you’ll want to check out the supplies to keep kiddos organized and happy.

Read on for a road trip essentials list: the things you won’t want to drive without.

This post contains affiliate links. When you click and buy, I earn a small income at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting this free resource for family travel!

Keep your car organized on a road trip 

You can’t control everything about a road trip—construction and weather are out of your hands. But you can control how messy (or not-messy) your car gets.

That’s why I’m sharing these essential road trip supplies to keep the car tidy. 

Car charger splitter

Do you and your road trip companions have to take turns charging your electronics? Not anymore! Simply get a car charger splitter, which turns a single electronic port into multiple USB chargers. (If you only need two chargers, I recommend this compact double car charger.)

If your car has a USB charger built-in, plug in a USB hub like this one to turn one charging spot into four. That way you can power up your phones, tablets, cameras and any other electronics—at the same time.

Level 10 travel tip: Charging multiple devices at once is even more important if you’re camping. Everyone’s devices will need a full charge before you stop driving since your tent doesn’t have a power outlet!

Cord organizers

If you’re charging more than one advice, you’ll want to wrangle all those cords. I like these cord organizers for a few reasons. They’re great for bundling multiple cords together (so the front seat doesn’t look like a nest of snakes from all the cords!). We also use them to wrap up long cords when we’re storing them.

Plus, when you buy pack of multiple cord organizers, you can stash them everywhere you need one: in each car, your home charging station and your work desk. 

Milk crates

You’ll pack your clothes in a suitcase or bag and your perishable food in a cooler, of course. I recommend packing just about everything else in sturdy milk crates. 

Here’s why.

• Milk crates are hard-sided, unlike cardboard boxes, so the contents won’t get smashed.
• You can see through the sides of milk crates so you know what’s inside at a glance.
• Milk crates are stackable.
• They’re sturdy, so you can use them on all your road trips to come.
• They’re big enough to hold road trip supplies and food but small enough that you can use several and organize your gear.

Wet bag

A wet bag is one of my recommended essential road trip products. Why? It has so many uses!

We’ve used a wet bag to store used cutlery and plates until we can wash up when we arrive at our destination. We put wet swimsuits in a wet bag so our car doesn’t get a musty smell. They’re also critical on the off-chance someone in your group gets car sick.

It’s a good idea to have a set of at least two wet bags, like these pretty ones.

Organize the car for a family road trip

No one wants their nicely packed car to devolve into chaotic mess an hour into your road trip. These are the products and gear I recommend to keep your kids and their stuff organized on a road trip.

And remember, if you’re feeling even slightly overwhelmed by the idea of a family road trip, my online course Rock Your Road Trip is made just for you. In it, I teach you everything from how to pick a destination and plan a route with fun trips to how to organize kids’ gear and stop bickering in the back seat. 

Seat back organizer

Seat back organizers keep all your kids’ stuff organized. That means it’s off the floor, less likely to get lost or broken, and more likely to be accessible to your kids. (That all means less whining—WIN!)

I like these sturdy seat back organizers. They even have a clear 10-inch pocket for tablets, letting the kids watch their own movies or shows. They also have lots of pockets for kids’ activities, snacks and gear.

Cup holder organizer

If your kids’ car seats have cup holders, did you know you can use a cup holder organizer? Kids (or adults!) can store pens, markers, electronic devices, headphones and more.

Activity organizer

If your car has a seat between kids’ car seats, a back seat organizer like this one is beyond helpful. It fits in the middle seat and has compartments for books, magnetic games, tablets, art supplies and more.

I like this style of activity organizer because it gives kids access to their own stuff. Road trip hacks are meant to make the journey easier, after all. And when you don’t have to constantly reach back to give your kiddos different activities, everyone is happier!

My kids’ seats are actually pilot seats, so they don’t have a spot to put a back seat organizer. Instead, we use a bin on the ground in between where their feet go. Ours is filled with books. You should hear them read stories to each other—so adorable!

Tablet headrest mounts

If you don’t opt for the seat back organizers I linked to above, you should consider a headrest mount for your kids’ tablets. These tablet mounts attach to the head rest of the front seat. That way your kids can watch a movie or show without craning their necks down at their laps. That just gets them a sore neck.

Kids travel pillow

I cringe when kids fall asleep on a road trip and doze with their heads at seriously uncomfortable angles. That’s why I recommend a kids’ travel pillow like this one, which wraps gently around their neck. It won’t slide off (like the horseshoe-shaped ones), and it supports their little heads. 

Kids headphones

If your kids are doing any screentime that you don’t want to hear, get them some headphones. (Personally, I hope to never listen to another episode of Paw Patrol ever. ever. again.)

My kids love these cute headphones. They stay on their heads and don’t hurt their ears. 

Suction cup organizer

If you’re driving a minivan on your road trip, this handy road trip hack only works for kids in the third row. (You need to keep windows in the middle row clear so doors can open and close.) Simply stick a suction cup organizer on a window. It becomes an incredibly helpful way for kids to organize and store things like markers, headphones, small toys or their other activities. 

**Bonus** Suction cup organizers mean kids will have what they need within reach. They’ll rely on you less to pass back what they need!

Supplies to eat well on a road trip

I love road trip junk food as much as the next person. (Cheddar Ruffles are my jam!) That doesn’t mean I want to eat gas station food nonstop.

These are the products, supplies and gear I recommend for organizing meals, keeping food safe and eating well on a road trip.

Reliable cooler

A cooler keeps all your food cold—and safe—so it’s important to buy one that’s reliable. After all, you don’t want to spend a ton of time (and money) buying ice multiple times a day!

If you want to invest the least amount possible while still getting a cooler that works, I recommend this budget cooler. It definitely does the job!

If you really need to make your ice last, I recommend this terrific mid-price cooler. Ice remains solid longer than in a cheaper cooler, and I like that it has cup holders on the lid.

Snack caddy

Road trip snacks are one of the best parts of hitting the road. Keep all your munchies organized with a snack caddy. We keep ours on the floor between the front seats.

(To be completely honest, I don’t recommend buying a snack caddy online. Most come in multiple packs but you likely need only one or two. You can buy one at the dollar store for a fraction of the price.)

Reusable baggies

Plastic baggies are convenient, but they create so much trash. Invest in a set of reusable silicone baggies instead. Since we bought these, we use so much less plastic.

I recommend storing individual portions of snacks in these so you don’t end up with a bunch of family size chip bags in the front seat. At the start of the drive, simply dole out the amount you’ll want in one of these reusable baggies. Keep the full sized bag in the back. Then refill as needed!

Reliable ice packs

You’ll want to pack your cooler to maximize the ice. (Read my insanely detailed post on the right way to pack your cooler for more tips!) That includes creating a base layer of solid ice at the bottom of your cooler.

You can fill and freeze plastic ziplocks or use ice packs, which last longer. 

Reusable cutlery

There’s nothing worse than getting ready to eat your road trip lunch than realizing you don’t have a spoon to eat it with! We avoid this problem by keeping sets of reusable cutlery in the glove box at all time.

You can use silverware from home or buy cute, sustainable reusable cutlery. (I love this pretty pink cutlery set, which comes with its own case.) We wrap the cutlery in cloth napkins and secure the whole shebang with a rubber band.

Waterproof picnic blanket

There’s something charming and nostalgic about picnics, don’t you think? Take advantage of a road trip to eat al fresco!

You don’t want your bum getting wet or dirty, though, so make sure you pack a waterproof picnic blanket. (This checkered one is adorable and it rolls into an easily packable tote.) We always keep one in the car so we’re ready for spontaneous picnics.

Road trip safety supplies

Chances are, the worst accident you’ll have on a road trip is when you spill the Goldfish crackers. Just in case you experience car trouble or some other unexpected issue, ensure you have safety supplies.

In fact, you should keep most of these car safety supplies in your vehicle at all times (not only on road trips). Does your car have all this safety gear?

First aid kit

Hopefully you have a first aid kit in your car already. If you do, check it thoroughly before a road trip. Make sure nothing is expired or missing, and replenish any supplies, like band aids or wipes. 

If you don’t have one yet, it’s easiest to get a pre-stocked first aid kit. (It’s more budget-friendly to buy one like this than purchase all the supplies individually.)

Reflectors

If you have car trouble, you need to stay safe while you fix it. That’s why you should have reflective triangles in your road trip safety kit. 

I like these reflective triangles because they’re sturdy (i.e. they won’t blow over on a windy day). They’re also approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Reflective vest

You’re not going to win any fashion awards wearing a reflective vest like this one, but it will keep you safe on the side of the road. You want to make sure all traffic can see you.

Emergency go bag

We have an emergency go bag in each car, plus one next to the door in our house. (I bought them shortly after I read that article about an overdue mega-earthquake in the Pacific Northwest.)

I like a pre-stocked emergency go bag like this one. It includes emergency supplies like food and water, plus things like a flashlight and dust masks, for a family of four. 

It’s extremely unlikely you’d need to use an emergency go bag during a road trip. That said, I prefer to be safe than sorry. And it’s good preparation to have one just in case, as they could be used in any type of disaster.

Jumper cables

Most people keep a standard set of jumper cables in their car at all times—crucial if you find yourself with a dead battery. Double-check that yours haven’t wandered off!

Essential Road Trip Supplies

When you go on a road trip, you want to focus on what really matters: having fun, taking in the scenery and enjoying the adventure. You don’t want to worry about having to track down your stuff, re-organize after every stop or find yourself stranded with car trouble.

I recommend evaluating what additional supplies you need well before your road trip begins. That way you have plenty of time to buy gear to fill the gaps. No last-minute stress for you!

I’d love to hear what road trip hacks or car organizing tips work best for you. Do you have any to add? Let me know in the comments!

The post Ultimate List of Essential Road Trip Supplies + Gear to Organize your Car appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

This post contains affiliate links. By clicking and buying, you help me earn a small income (at no extra cost to you!) so I can continue bringing you free travel content.

But before I reveal all my pro cooler packing hacks, I have a question: Have you gotten a copy of my book yet? Road Trip Games & Activities for Kids shares 33 fun, customizable games and free printables that will keep you entertained on the road. Click the image below to get your copy in e-book or paperback!

Why is packing a cooler important?

Keeping foods colder longer is important whether you’re camping, road tripping or just going out for the day. Of course you probably agree that food and drinks just taste better when they’re cold. In addition, here are the actually important reasons to pack a cooler right:

1. Properly packing a cooler ensures food stays colder—and therefore safer. Temperature fluctuations create an environment where bacteria and other baddies can grow.
2. Cooler organization helps you find everything faster. I think you’ll agree that rummaging around in a cooler—scraping your knuckles on ice cubes, even—is no fun.

Friends, I totally geeked out on this post on how to pack a cooler. Yep, that’s right—I made an infographic. I’m a visual learner, and you might be too.

And, at the very least, Hubs can use the below diagram if he ever has to pack the cooler without me. 😉

How to pack a cooler—the smart, organized way

1. Loose ice on top. 

This top layer is like icing: It finishes off packing a cooler by ensuring every square inch of the cooler is primed to stay cold. Leaving unused space will make everything inside the cooler heat up more quickly, since air gets warmer more quickly than water or ice does. 

You’ll also pack the densest ice on the bottom of your cooler, so this top layer ensures food near the top stays cold, too.

2. Use square reusable containers.

I’m a big fan of bringing prepped food camping and on road trips. That way I don’t have to break out the cutting board and knife if I want to slice some peppers for lunch or chop a bunch of veggies for a foil dinner.

I put all that prepped food in reusable containers—but use square ones! Round containers take up more space and don’t pack together efficiently. You’ll use valuable cooler real estate unless you stick to square and rectangular containers.

3. Gather lunch supplies in a bag. 

Fill a zippered plastic bag with everything you’ll need for your first meal while camping or on a road trip. 

I’m guessing you’re like me, and that when you get to camp or hit the road, you have plenty of other things to do besides rummage around a cooler. So stash everything for that meal in one place. You won’t get hangry—and you won’t keep the cooler open longer than necessary. That’s a good thing for the longevity of your ice!

4. Store foods vertically.

Can you tell I heart Marie Kondo? If you’ve read her blockbuster book on organizing or watched her Netflix show, you know she’s a fanatic in storing clothing vertically. I’m the same, except for food. Whether I’m packing a cooler or storing dry goods for a long road trip, I try to keep everything stacked vertically—not horizontally.

Why?

When you pack items vertically, you can see more at a glance. You won’t have to dig through layers of ice and food to get the one thing at the very bottom. 

5. Beverages at the bottom.

Pack your La Croix, beer or pop at the bottom of your cooler. You don’t want your drinks crushing the rest of your food!

If you have the space, though, pack a separate, smaller cooler just for drinks. I like this drinks cooler for a few reasons: a) It can store more than three dozen drinks. So when you refrigerate all those drinks before you leave on your trip, they’ll help keep each other cold. b) This cooler is collapsible. So when you near the end of your trip and have eaten most of your food, you can fold down the drinks cooler and combine everything in the main cooler. 

6. Loose ice fills the gaps.

Think of a perfectly packed cooler like a cake: It has layers and makes for a delicious outing. In this case, loose ice is the frosting between two layers of cake. 

You cover the bottom layer of the cooler in ice for two reasons:

1. A layer of loose ice ensures all of the foods stay cold and safe, not just those at the bottom and top.
2. Loose ice fills gaps in between food items. Pockets of air stay warmer, melting the ice more quickly. 

7. Freeze food you don’t need immediately.

If you’re packing a cooler for more than a few days, there will be ingredients you won’t need until later in your trip. When possible, freeze these items and use them as a solid ice layer.

So if, for example, you’re planning chicken sausages for dinner on night 3, freeze them. The frozen food will help keep the entire cooler cold; the frozen food will stay fresher; and the frozen food will thaw by the time you’re ready to eat it.

8. Freeze water bottles.

My kids don’t just ask for water when they’re thirsty. Max and Edie routinely request “ice cold water.” Unfortunately, camping and road trips make fulfilling that request a lot harder than it is at home.

But! That’s why I love this trick. Instead of buying a bunch of ice packs, we freeze bottles of water instead. Just leave some room for the ice to expand.

Fiji water bottles are rectangular and so work best, but any water bottle will do.

A few days into your camping trip or road trip, the bottles of water will have thawed. Then you and your whole crew can enjoy ice cold water!

9. Solid ice forms a foundation.

At the very base of your cooler, pack a layer of solid ice.

We reuse the ice packs we receive with meal delivery services. (We order a few times a month from Freshly, which delivers fully cooked and ready to heat gluten-free meals. Here is a link if you want to try Freshly and get $40 off.)

Solid ice is important here because it melts more slowly than loose ice. As a result, it’ll help keep the entire cooler cold for longer.

These tips will work in any kind of trip, whether you’re packing a cooler for camping, a road trip, a beach day or anything else. 

Read on for situation-specific tips on packing a cooler the right way. 

How to pack a cooler for camping

I’m channeling all my stir craziness into camping—so my family and I are doing a lot of camping during this COVID summer. As a result, I’ve had some extra opportunities to learn even more cooler packing strategies. And I’m here to teach you how to pack a cooler for camping specifically.

You’ll want to follow all the above steps and organization rules. 

In addition, you’ll want to find a shady place to stash your cooler once you arrive at your campsite. Under a picnic table or under trees tends to work well. 

If you can’t store your cooler in the shade, at least use a reflective shade or cover. Reflective shades bounce 70% or more of sunlight away from your cooler, helping preserve the ice and food inside. This is especially important if you don’t have easy access to ice when you’re camping.

Plus, the reflective shade kind of makes it look like you’re futuristic aliens who like to camp. 

Finally, you’ll want to safely store your cooler at night. Food left outside can attract critters from ground squirrels to bears. I’m pretty sure you don’t want to share your food with wild animals.

If you’re car camping, stash the cooler in the car or its trunk. If you’re in bear country, store all food in a bear box elevated off the ground. 

Take it from a gal who once woke up in a tent to the sound of a skunk snacking on our food, which we unwisely/drunkenly left out overnight. 

How to pack a cooler for a road trip

Yes, I know that you might be taking a road trip to go camping. If that’s the case, all these tips and strategies apply! Here are the cooler packing ideas specific to a road trip.

As you pack all your gear in the car, pack the empty cooler, too. That way you know you have a perfectly cooler-shaped spot available for when you add all your food.

Packing a cooler should be an almost-last thing to do before you leave. (If you’re tired of forgetting things, you’ll appreciate the full pre-trip checklist I created.) That way, the food stays cooler longer.

Then the cooler is the very last thing to pack in the car—besides your crew, that is!

When the cooler is right next to the hatch or trunk, it’s easily accessible whenever you stop on your road trip. You definitely don’t want to have to unearth the cooler from a mountain of other gear!

Last tip: When possible, pack your cooler in the main part of the car, not the trunk. This tip isn’t relevant to those of us with a minivan. But if you drive a sedan, you probably noticed that the trunk heats up in the summer! You want to protect your cooler, and the food inside, from such extreme temperatures. 

Should I drain the water from a cooler?

This question has experts and even scientists arguing over who is right. But when it comes to whether you should drain the water from a cooler, the answer is: it depends.

When you should not drain the water from a cooler

Much of the time, you don’t want to drain the water from a cooler. That’s because the melted ice is still colder than the air that would replace the space water had formerly taken up. So if you let out a gallon of melted ice water, the equivalent of a gallon of air will now be in your cooler instead.

Not good if you want to keep cold foods colder. 

When you should drain the water from a cooler

A couple of exceptions from the general rule of letting the water chill out in the cooler:

1. If you still have lots of solid or loose ice, drain the water from a cooler. This is because water causes the remaining ice to melt more quickly. So to preserve the ice you have, empty your cooler.
2. Right before you add fresh ice, drain the water from your cooler. If you have access to fresh ice, make sure you’re not adding it to a melty ice water soup. It’ll stay colder longer.
3. Drain the cooler water before you have to move it. If you’re lugging the cooler around, leaving the melted ice water inside makes it heavy. Save your back; drain the water. 
4. If anything spills in the cooler, drain the water. You don’t want food sitting in a cocktail of water and salsa. Yuck.
   This happened recently on our camping trip in Central Oregon: I brought along a can of whipped cream, thinking it would be a nice treat for Max and Edie. I didn’t realize the dang whipped cream would squirt every time anyone bumped it, so we ended up with whipped cream water all over everything.

You didn’t realize there was so much to correctly packing a cooler, did you? Now I bet you understand why Hubs leaves it to me. 😉

Read the how-to instructions below for a quick recap.

How to Pack a Cooler for Camping + Road Trips

Print

If you want to keep your food colder, fresher and safer for longer, you need to pack your cooler correctly. Here, I'll share step by step how to pack a cooler for camping, road trips, beach trips or any other adventures.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Active Time 30 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Difficulty easy

Estimated Cost $10

Materials

• Good quality cooler
• Ice packs
• Frozen water bottles
• Ice

Tools

• Freezer

Instructions

1. The day before your trip, freeze any ice packs or water bottles you'll use in the cooler.
2. Also the day before your trip, bring your cooler inside, especially if you store it in a hot attic or garage. It will reach room temperature and keep the cold foods colder.
3. The day of your trip, lay solid ice blocks or frozen ice packs on the bottom of the cooler. This is your foundation.
4. Add frozen food you won't need for several days.
5. Drinks also go at the bottom so they don't crush other food.
6. Top the drinks and frozen food with a layer of loose ice, fitting ice into any gaps between foods.
7. Load already prepped food in rectangular storage containers.
8. Pack food vertically instead of horizontally. You'll see more without digging through the cooler.
9. Load more delicate foods, such as produce, at the top.
10. Cover everything with a layer of loose ice. Make sure the cooler is completely full, as this helps it stay colder for longer.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

• 
  Coleman Cooler | Xtreme Cooler Keeps Ice Up to 5 Days | Heavy-Duty 70-Quart Cooler for Camping, BBQs, Tailgating & Outdoor Activities
• 
  Below Zero 10x14 Cooler Pack (4 Pack)
• 
  Coleman Performance Cooler, 48-Quart - Blue

Did you try this? What did you think?

Were these instructions helpful? Be a gem and share this info with someone else who could use it!

The post 22 pro tips: How to pack a cooler for camping + road trips appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

My own kiddos love playing while we travel. If we’re in an airport, chances are we’re playing I Spy or even Hide and Seek, if the terminal isn’t too full. But when I break out the physical games and printables, that’s when Max and Edie get truly excited.

I have a feeling your kids might be the same. So simply download and print out these Holiday Travel Bingo games before your next trip. If you’re sitting, you can use anything to mark the squares—coins work well. Or if you’re en route, kids can X the squares off with a crayon or pencil. Either way, this free holiday Bingo game will help pass the time for the whole family!

I’m crossing my fingers for you and smooth travels, zero delays and friendly seat mates. But don’t leave your kids’ travel entertainment to chance. Use these Holiday Travel Bingo games to keep your whole family feeling merry and bright this holiday season.

It’s not just you—holiday travel IS busy

On average, travel is about a quarter busier than average around Christmas. And last year, an estimated third of Americans traveled during the holidays. That’s 112.5 million people on the roads, rails, runways—maybe even sleigh trails—according to AAA.

I’m not sharing those stats to scare you into staying home! I’m just validating your sneaking suspicion that holiday travel really is busier than normal.

The potential of winter weather delays also makes holiday travel feel busier than normal. (After all, when people aren’t moving when expected, that means roads and airports are more congested.)

One study researched a year’s worth of data on weather delays and found these to be the most delayed airports in the US:

Worst U.S. Airports for Weather Delays

1. San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
2. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
3. Chicago O’Hare international Airport (ORD)

Now you can’t always choose which airport to fly out of, and you can’t miraculously change the weather in your region. But if you are flying out of one of these hubs, keep in mind winter weather delays are more likely than not. Then make sure you’re prepared—including having things on hand to keep kids entertained, like this Holiday Travel Bingo game!

Holiday Travel Bingo game to keep kids entertained

So much of parenthood is recognizing the difference between what you can control and what you can’t, then moving on from there.

Family travel is the same. You can’t control snow and ice, nor can you control how many other people hit the road when you do. But you can control what you plan to keep your kids entertained during holiday travel.

So why wouldn’t you want these free Holiday Travel Bingo cards? They’re easily portable, so you can bring them along wherever you go. They have a good mix of festive and regular travel squares. They’re usable for air travel as well as road trips. (If you’re driving, make sure to be on the lookout during rest stops and potty breaks!)

How to use this holiday Bingo printable

Travel can be complicated. You have to book your trip, get to the airport on time or pack up the minivan for a road trip, deal with traffic and other delays, and keep track of everything from boarding passes to your actual children.

Luckily, using my holiday Bingo printable is easy peasy lemon squeezy (or “easy peasy yemon deezy,” as Maxine says, with her adorable pronunciation).

Here’s how to make the most of this free travel Bingo printable:

1. Sign up to get the free holiday Bingo printable delivered to your email inbox—right away!
2. Print the holiday Bingo cards. I think color is more fun and festive, but black and white is fine, too. Print the right number of cards for the people in your family. The PDF you’ll get includes 4 different cards!
3. [optional step] Laminate the Bingo cards. This is a great option if your trip is long, or if you want to play holiday travel Bingo on the way to and from your destination. Bonus tip: If you laminate, bring along dry erase markers, which you can erase from laminated pages and then reuse!
4. Hand out the holiday Bingo cards to everyone in your family who wants to play. They can mark off squares with crayons or use coins or pompoms as markers.
5. Decide if there will be a prize. You might want to stash some Hershey’s Kisses for winners, or dole out little toys. Or you can just play for funsies!

Make holiday travel easier with fun and games

No matter if you’re visiting loved ones this holiday or going on a getaway that doesn’t involve family and friends, I know you’ll agree you could use all the help you can get making holiday travel a tad bit easier.

I’ve definitely been there, after all. I know firsthand that smoother winter travel makes for a better family trip overall. So I am sure you’ll have as much fun playing this free holiday Bingo game as I did creating it!

Let me know when you use it and tag me on Instagram. I can’t wait to hear all about your holiday travels!

In the meantime, tell me: Are you heading out of town this holiday or staying put at home??

The post Holiday Travel Bingo: Free printables for family travel this holiday appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

I’ve done plenty of solo travel with kids when Hubs isn’t able to join us. His work schedule isn’t quite as flexible as mine, and I’m not content to stay at home just because traveling with kids without my husband is a little more challenging.

You can solo travel with kids, too. Whether you’re a single parent or want to explore when your partner isn’t able to, these tips are a must-read. Below, you’ll read how to fly alone with kids, keep kids entertained en route, avoid meltdowns and take care of yourself when you travel solo with kids.

I’ve used all these recommendations with my own family. My girls and I take day trips (“Girls road trip!” we all shout in my mommy minivan), flown cross-country and even traveled internationally. You can master solo travel with kids, too.

Become a master of solo travel with kids

Before you leave on a solo trip with kids

Planning a family trip soon? With a little advance thought, you can make your solo travel with kids much smoother. Here’s how.

Mail your luggage

You know that sweaty, overwhelmed feeling of trying to pull several suitcases through the airport while keeping track of your children? Yeah, me too, which is why I now mail clothes, diapers, snacks and everything I’ll need on a family vacation directly to my destination.

The postage fees are about the same as a checked bag, and you’ll save TONS of hassle.

With a little advance planning and a trip to the post office, you can avoid checking a bag and hauling luggage through the airport. Just let the hotel know you’re sending a package their way, or if you’re staying with family, give your loved ones a heads-up.

Pack for yourself, too

If you’re like me, you consider every possible need your children might have while traveling. But you totally neglect yourself!

Case in point: When I flew to Detroit alone with my older daughter when she was 1, I brought snacks galore for her but nothing for myself. Then when the snack cart came by, they were all out of vegetarian food. I ended up eating one of her squeezie pouches—which I don’t recommend, btw.

Now I make sure to pack for myself, too. I include healthy snacks, lip balm and something to keep me entertained for the off-chance my kids nap and leave me with free time. Do yourself a huge solid and keep your own needs in mind, too.

How to fly alone with kids

Avoid short layovers

I’m a budget traveler, so I totally get searching for the cheapest flight. After all, buying less expensive flights is even more important when you have kids who are over the 2-year lap infant cutoff!

Before you click confirm, though, double-check your layovers. You will not have time to deplane then hustle your kids across the airport in 40 minutes. So make sure your itinerary has long enough layovers to safely get from one gate to another.

Book aisle seats

If you have kids in the squirmy wormy age range, sit in the aisle. You’ll be up and down with them, and it’s easier to get up if you don’t constantly have to bug your seat neighbors.

Splurge on extra leg room

Yeah, it’s totally obnoxious how much airlines charge for the luxury of a few extra inches of legroom. But that cost is totally worth it if you have a toddler. You won’t worry about your kids kicking the seat in front of you, and they’ll be able to stand/wiggle/do the hokey pokey in the extra legroom.

Check bags at curbside

If you do have checked luggage, paying a few extra bucks for curbside check-in is worth it when you travel solo with kids. You can just get dropped off right there, get rid of your suitcases and then focus on your littles—not your luggage—as you maneuver through the airport.

Find a family restroom

Ever tried to cram a roll-aboard suitcase, a diaper bag and 3 humans inside a bathroom stall? I have. It’s not fun.

Luckily, airports have family bathrooms (though they can be hard to find). Keep an eye out for signs for a family bathroom. It’s a big room that includes a diaper changing station, a toilet, a sink and lots of room for kids to wait while you finally empty your bladder. Plus, the family bathroom is big enough that they can stand in the middle of it and not. touch. anything. (I know I’m not the only parent who repeats that a million times in a public bathroom!)

Use the pre-boarding option

You know the announcement when it’s time for passengers who “require a little extra time” to get on the plane? When you have kids, that’s you.

Take advantage of pre-boarding if your airline offers it. You can use the time to board the plane at your kids’ pace, get your carry-ons in the overhead compartment and get settled without a huge audience.

Introduce yourself to your seatmates

Sitting next to strangers can be awkward, but break the ice by introducing yourself and your kids. Seatmates are much more likely to be friendly if they know your name. You’ll also stress less about your kids bothering them if they’ve already gushed about their own grandkids.

Ask your seatmate to watch your kids while you pee

If your partner isn’t there to hold your baby or watch your kids while you use the restroom on the plane, ask your seatmate. Even if you’re nervous about leaving your littles with a stranger, know they can’t get far. They’re just as trapped on the plane as you are!

Also, there is literally no room in those teeny tiny lavatories for you both. So trust in humanity and pee solo.

Find the lavatory with the changing table

I learned—the hard way, aka with a child and a poopy diaper—that not all plane lavatories have changing tables. So ID it before you sit down (or ask a flight attendant which one has the changing table). That way you won’t be unpleasantly surprised when you have to change your child mid-flight!

How to rock a family road trip by yourself

Create a passenger seat staging area

When you don’t have another parent with you on a road trip, it’s up to you to manage your tiny (and demanding!) passengers. If you’ve magically trained your kids to be self-sufficient on road trips, congratulations. For the rest of us, turn the passenger seat into a staging area to entertain your kids on a road trip.

When I set out on a road trip by myself, I set up everything I’ll need on the passenger seat: snacks, toys and books. That way I can grab whatever I need without taking my eyes off the road and pass it back to my children in the back seat.

Plan your route first

When you have another parent in the passenger seat, you can rely on him or her to give you directions. But if you don’t have a navigator, make sure you know where you’re going before you even turn on the car.

Enter the addresses of all your destinations, and look at the overview so you have an idea of where you’re headed.

Tips for all solo travel with kids

No matter how you’re getting from Point A to Point B, these ideas for solo travel with kids will help make it a smooth trip.

Ask for help

It’s easy to forget that sometimes humans need a hand. Jostle yourself out of your self-reliance zone when you travel solo with kids—chances are, you’ll need some help, and that’s ok.

Whether it’s figuring out how to pump your own gas if you’re used to full-service gas stations or finding a water fountain in an endless airport terminal, ask for help. Strangers are almost always happy to assist.

Pull the mom card

Yeah yeah, you don’t always want or need special treatment. But if you’re traveling alone with kids, you deserve it.

So if you’re in a desperate situation—your kid’s about to wet himself or you’re pregnant and about to faint from hunger—ask to skip to the front of the line. Other people are usually decent human beings and are more than willing to make exceptions, especially for supermoms like you.

Pack surprise goodies

I always get a few special toys and treats when I travel solo with kids. A brand-new activity or usually off-limits snack can keep kids entertained on the plane or head off a back seat revolt.

I wrote about DIY travel activity kit ideas on my other blog—take a look for ideas to keep entertained on the go!

Prioritize self-care

If you’re traveling alone with kids, you’re focused on them—are they too hot or too cold? hungry? bored? about to pee their pants? It’s easy to forget yourself.

So make sure to take care of yourself. Go to bed early before you leave on your solo trip with kids. Drink tons of water. Eat well. Text your best friend about how you will never travel with kids again. Whatever it is you need to stay sane, do it. That way you’ll be there for your kids.

Baby wear

Even if your kid is 35 pounds, baby wearing can be a life-saver when you travel alone with kids. (I still wear my 3.5-year-old, especially on solo travel trips!) Babywearing leaves your hands free to pull luggage, hold the hand of another child, give boarding passes to flight attendants or the million other things you’ll need to do when you’re traveling with kids.

Stretch it out

If you’re carrying all the bags and all the kids, you will get sore. Avoid a tweaked muscle by stretching before and during your solo travel with kids.

Pack light

Edit your bags so you’re not lugging around 47 pounds of just-in-case gear.

Do I need a parental consent form?

Maybe. When you travel solo with kids, a parental consent form documents that you have your partner’s approval to travel with your children. You do not need this document while traveling within the US or to most countries. (Double-check if you need one if you’re traveling internationally; rules vary by country.)

That said, having a parental consent form isn’t a bad idea, just in case. There isn’t an official form here within the US, so you can just write one yourself. It should include:

• your and your partner’s name and contact information
• your children’s names and birth dates
• your destinations
• a statement saying that your at-home partner is aware and approves of the travel

For good measure, you can have the form notarized.

How about you? Do you have any tips to make solo travel with kids easier? Don’t forget to pin this for later and share with a friend who’s traveling alone with kids!

The post Solo travel with kids: You can do it! appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

But don’t wait to have fun until you arrive at these day trip destinations. Enjoy every mile along the way, too, with my book Road Trip Games & Activities for Kids! (You don’t have to be a kid to love these 33 games, I promise!!!) Click the image below to get your copy in e-book or paperback.

Day trips from Portland you’ll absolutely love

These Portland, Oregon, day trips require almost no planning, and they definitely don’t require overnight stays. But last-minute day trips don’t have to feel like a consolation prize. They’re a fun (and budget-friendly) way to explore Oregon.

I selected a few of our favorite day trips from Portland that are all easy to access from the metro area and are perfect for a quick family getaway or a romantic escape. If you leave in the morning, you’ll have time to enjoy your destination and make it back home by bedtime.

So what are you waiting for? Pack a cooler with snacks, make sure your camera is charged and hit the road. These day trips from Portland will make memories you and your family will enjoy all year long.

1. Oregon Coast Day Trip

Weather on the Oregon Coast is hit or miss this time of year, but Oregon-born kids won’t mind a little rain when they’re building sandcastles, chasing seagulls, and tempting the tide. (“Can’t catch me!!!”)

We love Cannon Beach for family day trips from Portland, and the girls love Seaside for its on-the-sand swing sets and carousel, but you pretty much can’t lose wherever you stop.

For help deciding where to go, check out my epic guide to the Oregon Coast.

2. Sisters, Oregon Day Trip

This tiny Central Oregon town is often overlooked en route to Bend, Oregon, but Sisters is quaint and fun to explore, too. You can spot the region’s many mountains in what locals jokingly call the “skyline,” ride horses on a guided trail ride, play disc golf, hike, bike along the Metolius River at Camp Sherman, and of course, pick out some candy at the old-timey shops along Main Street.

If you go to Sisters, Oregon, you’re only a short drive from Skylight Cave, an off-the-beaten-path adventure where you can see sunlight streaming in from holes in the cave ceiling.

3. Hood River Day Trip from Portland

Hood River might be better known for grown-up activities (like wine tastings and brewery hopping), but there’s plenty to entertain the whole family on this fun day trip from Portland, too.

We love the local ice cream joints, hikes in the area, and of course the Fruit Loop when apples, pears, cherries and peaches are in season.

You can also just hang out in Hood River. Watch kitesurfers skim across the water in the Columbia River Gorge, browse cute shops downtown and enjoy al fresco music on a weekend.

4. Columbia River Gorge Day Trip

The lower viewpoint at Multnomah Falls just reopened after recovery from last year’s Eagle Creek Fire, so this is a great resting place to stop on your drive farther out the gorge.

If you need some time indoors, check out the Maryhill Museum on the Washington side of the Gorge. You’ll be able to marvel at Native American weavings, Rodin sculptures, and the museum’s resident peacocks.

Level 10 travel tip: Some of the hikes on the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge are still closed from the wildfire’s damage. Most hikes on the Washington side escaped severe damage so they’re still open—but they’re significantly busier than they used to be, especially on weekends.

5. Astoria Day Trip

I absolutely adore Astoria. It’s close to the coast but has its own personality, and kids have so much to do in Astoria.

On a Spring Break day trip, you can ride the trolley down the edge of town along the Columbia River, visit any of the many museums (the Maritime Museum is a good place to start), and definitely climb the Astoria Column, which gives 360-degree views. (Kids can also purchase little airplanes at the Column’s gift shop to fly from the tippy top!)

Level 10 travel tip: Stop at Buoy Beer, where you can see sea lions off the pier—and through a glass section of the floor inside! Kids love to watch the behemoths beneath their feet as you wait for a table.

For more on this quaint town, read my post on a romantic weekend getaway in Astoria.

6. Olympia Day Trip

Yes, I know this one’s in Washington, so it’s not technically an Oregon day trip—but you can get there from Portland in two hours.

We love visiting Olympia. Washington’s capital has a bit of the crunchy, progressive personality of Portland, but it’s right on the Sound and so it has its own attractions, too.

Our favorite kid-friendly activity in Olympia is the indoor and outdoor Hands-On Children’s Museum of Olympia. The girls love exploring the many rooms and themes (including a section outside where you can build waterfalls with sand, rocks, and dump trucks), and I appreciate that it incorporates so much science discovery.

For more details about this kid-friendly museum, read my full post on the Hands-On Children’s Museum.

Olympia also has a ton of parks for outdoor fun. Our favorite is Priest Point Park, where you hike through old-growth forest to get to a rocky beach.

7. Tacoma Day Trip

Another Washington day trip—but this one is fun, too, I promise! Seattle’s lesser-known sibling city was named in Sunset Magazine’s 20 Game-Changing Places to Live list, and there are lots of family-friendly attractions.

The Tacoma Children’s Museum has plenty to entertain kids. They have a really cool spot where kids can build with life-sized Lincoln Logs. (Finally, a place where Peeper can satisfy her quest to build a life-size castle!)

Then throw stones into the water at Owens Beach, ride the (free!) light rail, Link, from downtown to the Tacoma Dome, or make engineering, science, and art projects at Tinkertopia.

8. Catalana Cellars Day Trip

A kid-friendly, visually stunning place where parents can taste wine, and kids can explore the grounds? Sign me up! Villa Catalana Cellars, outside Canby and just a half-hour from Portland, is modeled after 12th-century Spanish architecture, so you’ll get a European vacation feel without ever leaving Oregon.

This estate is open on Saturdays and is the perfect choice for your next Portland day trip. The whole family can explore the grounds (including a rare plant nursery, olive groves, and even a bocce court), and the 21+ set can taste their wines ($10 tasting fee).

Want more? Read my whole post on visiting Villa Catalana Cellars.

9. Aurora Day Trip

Ranked as one of the nation’s best antiquing communities, Aurora, Oregon is a quaint town fully in touch with its history. Although the idea of taking kids into an antique store might make you sweat, it can actually be a super-fun way to spend some time with kids—and allow them to be responsible and safe.

They’ll really get into it if you give them each $5 and challenge them to find the weirdest thing in the antique store, and have a tiny prize for the winner—or surprise the whole gang with cupcakes at The White Rabbit Bakery. (Their seasonal cupcake this week is Oatmeal Cream. Yum!)

You could also combine a trip to Aurora with Catalana, as they’re close by. Two for the price of one! This makes for an awesome weekend getaway from Portland if you’re looking for a longer trip.

10. Silver Falls Day Trip

Oregon’s largest state park includes a wealth of hiking trails, including some that go behind waterfalls. (That’ll get kids excited!)

Just know that some of the trails can get steep and slippery and so aren’t ideal for little children. (I wore Max and Edie when they were little.) The state park also has a top-notch playground!

When you get chilly, warm up in the lodge with some hot chocolate. They also have snacks and some food.

11. Mt. St. Helens Day Trip

Just an hour north of Portland is Mt. St. Helens—the volcano that erupted in 1980, covering the region in ash. You and your kids will be able to see just how this habitat has completely changed from that destructive day.

Start at the interpretive center, and explore to your heart’s content.

12. Neskowin Ghost Forest

Just two hours from Portland, the Ghost Forest in Neskowin appears at low tide—then disappears again as the tide moves in. Just beneath the beach lies a petrified forest of Sitka spruce trees, and you can only explore this Oregon hidden gem when the water pulls the sand away.

Plan on arriving in Neskowin an hour before low tide to make your way to the beach in time to give this fun day trip in Oregon its due justice.

For all the details, read my full post on the Neskowin Ghost Forest.

13. Eugene day trip from Portland

Eugene is the second-largest city in the state, but that’s not why it’s one of the best day trips in Oregon. Track Town USA, which also happens to be where I grew up, is home to the University of Oregon Ducks and mecca for Prefontaine-loving runners.

I always recommend a few things for visitors to do in Eugene:

• Walk along the Willamette River—or better yet, float or kayak it!
• Hike Spencer’s Butte—it has a gorgeous 360-degree view of the city and beyond
• Eat from one of the many mini-restaurants in 5th Street Market

If you want even more ideas, click to my post on fun things to do in Eugene and the best family-friendly Eugene restaurants. 

14. Wine country near Portland

The highest concentration of wonderful wineries near Portland is in the Dundee-Newberg-McMinville area. Just an hour from downtown Portland, vineyards sprawl over the rolling hills, and tasting rooms pop up all along Highway 99.

You’ll get to taste oodles of pinot noir, which this wine region is famous for, along with other varietals including pinot gris and Riesling.

My favorite winery near Portland, Stoller, is a great first stop for folks wanting a great day trip in Oregon. They have enormous grounds, including a tire swing and a mini disc golf course. The real stars, though, are the Adirondack chairs to relax in and the sparkling pinot noir rose to sip.

And if you’re taking your kiddos along, make sure to read my post on going wine tasting with kids.

15. Mt. Hood Day Trip

If you’re looking for day trips from Portland, Oregon, you have to consider heading up Mt. Hood. We go up this volcano every chance we get (and don’t worry, it’s not an active volcano!!).

In fact, we go up so often that the mountain frequently appears in my kids’ drawings, and when they pretend a cardboard box is a plane or car, they’re typically heading to Mt. Hood in their imagination.

If you’re wondering what to do on Mt. Hood, I recommend that everyone take at least a short hike. This area is simply full of amazing trails for every comfort level, skill, and age. My girls have been hiking various trails on Mt. Hood since they were babies!

A few of the kid-friendly trails on Mt. Hood I recommend: Old Salmon River Trail near Rhododendron, Oregon; Lost Lake; and Little Zigzag Falls.

16. Smith Rock State Park

One of the most impressive locations in Oregon, Smith Rock State Park, is a Portland day trip you should definitely make. At about 2 hours 45 minutes from Portland, it’s a bit of a drive for a day—and 100% worth it.

There’s a catch, though. If you’re going to Smith Rock on a weekend, get there as early as humanly possible. On a recent day trip from Portland, my kids and I arrived at 12:30—and there were literally zero places to park. We had to turn around and leave! 

Once you arrive at Smith Rock, take in the views. Then choose which hike you’ll do—from the difficult Misery Ridge trail to the fairly easy River Trail to the very short Homestead Trail. 

No matter how you spend your time at Smith Rock, it’s almost guaranteed to be unforgettable. 

17. Long Beach, Washington

Long Beach, WA is just across the river and border from Astoria but has a totally different feel. For one thing, this Washington beach town is actually on the ocean, while Astoria was built along the Columbia River. 

Photo courtesy Pacific County Tourism Bureau

Stroll down Long Beach’s boardwalk that overlooks the ocean, stop by the town’s kite museum or hike around Cape Disappointment. And if it’s safe, park your beach chair on the sand and watch hundreds of kites fill the sky during August’s International Kite Festival.

No matter what time of year, the two hours’ drive makes this day trip from Portland totally doable—and totally memorable. Check out my post on Seaview and Long Beach, Washington!

Photo courtesy Pacific County Tourism Bureau

Explore Oregon’s family-friendly destinations on your Portland day trip

I am bowled over by the wonderful family-friendly activities and sites the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

My kids, husband, and I live in a state with boundless beauty, appreciation for history, and a dedication to good old fashioned fun—and we couldn’t be more grateful.

Are there any spots on this list you haven’t visited yet—but are excited to see? What Portland day trips do you love that I missed? Please share in the comments!

The post 17 Unforgettable Day Trips from Portland, Oregon to explore the PNW appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

We don’t make the road trip to Spokane all that often, and every time we go my niece is enormous! I know babies grow (duh), but holy smokes even a little distance makes time fast forward like crazy.

We’ll be driving to Spokane again this spring, so for our road trip to Washington, I’m prepping by investigating what to do between Portland and Spokane with kids. Because when you’re in the car for 6 hours with two very active children, you need to plan your road trip itinerary as if your life depends on it. (Sometimes it does—or at least it feels like it does—like when you want to jump into traffic after your 4-year-old asks “Are we there yet?” three minutes after getting into the car.)

*meditative breathing*

So if you happen to tackle an Oregon-Washington road trip, here’s what to do between Portland and Spokane, especially if you have kids.

Where to eat between Portland and Spokane

You’ve packed a bucketload of snacks because you’re an uber prepared mom, but there comes a point when all the squeezies and fun-sized packages of fish crackers won’t satisfy your kid’s appetite. And let’s be honest: Sometimes your family needs a break from the car even more than they need food.

When looking for where to eat between Portland and Spokane, look for a casual, quick, family-friendly restaurant. Bonus points if it has a play area or a park nearby!

Between Portland and Spokane, eat at:

pFriem Family Brewery in Hood River, OR

pFriem Family Brewery and restaurant is just minutes off I-84. Its kids menu is standard but good quality; parents will appreciate the delicious sandwiches and salads. Check out the brewery store next to the restaurant, where you can buy bottles—or even a pFriem growler, which they’ll fill from a tap—of their varied beers. Just make sure to pack those beers in the cooler; if they get warm, they’ll get skunky. No thanks!

Big Jim’s Drive In in The Dalles, OR

Big Jim’s Drive In is a fast option offers kid-friendly fare like burgers and fries. It also has an outdoor patio so kids can move (instead of sitting!). Even better: You won’t feel as guilty when they drip melted ice cream from the restaurant’s handmade cones.

Farmer’s Markets

Depending on the day, you can stop at farmer’s markets—and eat really locally—in the Tri Cities, Hood River and The Dalles. Farmers markets often have food trucks or independent booths that sell prepared food.

What to do between Portland and Spokane

My two kids are, ah, spirited on the best of days. Sticking them in a car seat for hours is like shaking up a bottle of champagne: When you pop the cork—BOOM! FIZZZ!—they are ready to go.

So when it came to planning what to do between Portland and Spokane, I knew they’d need to get out of the car and have a chance to play. After all, I don’t want them using all their little kid energy kicking the back of my seat!

What’s more, Kiwi—who hasn’t napped consistently since before her second birthday—is much more likely to fall asleep in the car if she takes an outdoor break from the road trip.

Here are some great places for kids and families to get out and move in a Portland to Spokane road trip.

The Children’s Park in Hood River, Oregon

The Children’s Park is an outdoor wonderland offers chances for kids to climb, jump and play. The enormous wooden fort is sure to inspire imaginative play—just be prepared to talk in old-timey king and queen accents to get your prince and princesses back in the car.

Earl Snell Memorial Park in Arlington, Oregon

I hadn’t planned on stopping at Earl Snell Memorial Park, which is just off the I-84 exit, but we discovered it on an earlier road trip to Spokane when Kiwi was throwing a giant fit in the backseat. The park has a playground and a sandy beach with a super-calm spot of the Columbia River. If you’re traveling with your pup, note that the southern part of the park is off-limits to dogs (head to the northern side for pooch-friendly spots). You can also visit the caboose just outside the park, off the road, during summer hours. Choo-choo!

The Playground of Dreams in Richland, Washington

The Playground of Dreams had me at its name. As part of a long park that runs along the Columbia River, one section includes a giant turreted play structure that is a dead ringer for a medieval castle. (FYI, the structure makes it hard to keep track of itty bitty kids, so stick close!) If you make the road trip between Portland and Spokane with kids in the summer, The Playground of Dreams also has a splash pad—though it gets packed.

What to plan between Portland and Spokane

Before your kids get overly stir-crazy, tip them off on something super-fun you’ve planned. Looking forward to something will help them hold on for a few more minutes—or maybe even a half-hour. So if you already ate and you already played, mentioning another destination can keep kids occupied. Try these kid-friendly stops between Portland and Spokane.

Photo by Don Graham, creative commons

Bonneville Dam and Fish Hatchery in Oregon

Your kids might not understand hydroelectricity (heck, you might not either!), but you don’t have to be a PhD to marvel at the power of this giant hydropower dam on the Columbia River, where energy we use to power toasters and charge phones is actually produced. Kids will love Bonneville Dam‘s underwater windows to watch fish make their way up the fish ladders. (The best times to spot various fish are June, August and September.) Meanwhile, kids can see other fish and even feed trout at the Bonneville Fish Hatchery, and it has viewing spots to watch spawning salmon in October and November.

Country Mercantile in Pasco, Washington

This produce/knickknack/ohmygoshthechocolate stand just off Highway 395 is impossible to miss, thanks to its gigantic sign. But be warned: You’re not going to get out of the Country Mercantile without buying a lot of sugary goodies. To head off your kids’ begging for every.single.treat they see, give them each $1 that they can spend how they see fit—it’s a lesson in budgeting and it saves you from saying “no” ten thousand times. Don’t forget to buy a bunch of locally grown peaches (or whatever else is in season when you pass through). They’ll totally make up for all the fudge you eat.

Mike’s Ice Cream in Hood River, Oregon

This tiny shop is adored by locals and tourists alike. The line may look long, but the scoopers are efficient, and you and the kids will be eating your cones in the plentiful outdoor seating in no time. Mike’s Ice Cream is not open in the winter, and it only accepts cash. If you’re craving ice cream during other months, stop at Hood River’s Gorge Ice Cream—it has great vegan and gluten-free options, too.

Rocking a Portland to Spokane road trip

The drive between Portland and Spokane isn’t the most scenic or action-packed stretch of highway in the US. But with lunch stops, parks to play in, special destinations and of course a whole lot of car games, you can make this family road trip one to remember—for all the right reasons.

Do you have tips on what to do between Portland and Spokane? Or do you have a favorite road trip travel hack? Please share!

The post Rock your road trip between Portland and Spokane—with kids appeared first on To & Fro Fam.