A timely article for us by Good Sam Insider Newsletter....
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Tips for RVing with Children
An RV vacation can be the ultimate family bonding experience. Nothing quite encourages communication and the sharing of good times like a getaway in a fifth wheel, motorhome or travel trailer. And with recreational vehicles featuring many of the comforts of home, RVing is the ultimate in kid-friendly travel.
But, traveling with families, especially kids, can also be challenging. Following a few simple tips the next time you hit the open road with your children or grandchildren can be the key to ensuring you have an amazing family vacation.
Allow extra time. When traveling with children, don't over schedule and don't rush your trip (unless you absolutely have to be somewhere at a certain time). Kids, especially younger ones, get bored easily, and even the roomiest RV can be confining for children. Work in places to explore or events to attend along the way. Make frequent stops to allow for restroom breaks and for children to run around. And, arrange to stop early enough each day to let the entire family unwind before bedtime.
Keep kids entertained. A plan to keep kids amused or busy along the way will increase the enjoyment of everyone in the family. Bring along plenty of fun road games as well as activity books, playing cards and some favorite toys. Engage in "on the road" trivia or play the license plate or letter game - find letters from the alphabet on the road signs, etc. Pack plenty of CDs, DVDs, even books on tape to keep the entire family entertained. Choose kid-friendly campgrounds that feature activities and amenities and are located nearby family attractions.
Prepare for emergencies. Be prepared for any type of emergency that may come up. Remember to pack a first aid kit-especially important when traveling with children. Always have a list of emergency contacts including your insurance and roadside assistance provider. If you are on your way to that perfect camping getaway with the kids or grandkids, the last thing you want to have to deal with is a breakdown in your RV. Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service has taken the worry out of RVing. They are the authority on RV towing. It is their business and they know the right questions to ask in order to send the right people and equipment to assist you.
Provide for comfort in vehicle. Comfort is especially important when traveling with small children. Pack their favorite stuffed animal, special blanket and pillow, family photo or similar items. It's also a good idea to give each child an assigned space to keep toys and personal items. No matter how small this area, it will make them feel more at home and also help keep your RV tidier. Packing a cooler with snacks, fruit juices and bottled water will also help ease a long trip.
Map it out. With preparation you will find it much easier to travel with children. Design your course and plot out directions, destinations, kid-friendly campgrounds, and attractions along the way. When you carefully map out your trip, you can determine the path that offers the most interesting events and sights en route. With travel tools like Good Sam Trip Routing, you can calculate mileage and driving time, locate Good Sam Parks where you can claim your 10 percent discount and identify the most RV-friendly route.
Hit the road this summer with your children or grandchildren. RVing is a great way to create happy family memories. Just remember to keep these tips in mind…along with a patient attitude…and get closer with your family on an RV adventure
