5 tips for road-tripping with toddlers in South Africa

We’ve all heard the saying ‘It’s about the journey, not the destination’ but, when you’re travelling with toddlers, sometimes it’s neither… Especially when your toddler is slap-bang in the middle of a meltdown! Fear not! These 5 golden tips will ensure you’re well-equipped for the adventure (let’s agree to call it an adventure) that awaits on your next road-trip.

5 top tips for travelling with toddlers:

Snacks, snacks, and more snacks

Picture this. You’re navigating through the Kruger National Park and you’ve just come around the corner to find a herd of elephants when there’s a sudden wail from the back seat: Hunger has struck. Snacks are the silent heroes of toddler travel. Just remember, when packing snacks, quantity, quantity, quantity! Have enough biltong, fruit and rusks on hand to feed an army of hungry impalas.

Embrace the mess

Easier said than done, but let’s get real: Travelling with toddlers is messy. Embrace the chaos and prepare for it. Wet wipes? Check. Sanitiser? Double check. An extra set of clothes? Triple check. Let’s say, the more backups, the merrier. Remember, it’s not just a road-trip; it’s an expedition through the wilderness of parenthood.

Plan breaks

Driving long distances in South Africa can be a toddler’s worst nightmare. Plan frequent pit stops. Let the little ones stretch their legs, take a breather, and experience the surroundings. Do some research and look for places where it’s safe to have a picnic or restaurants with play areas. It can make a great break! Planning is key here.

Entertainment

Long drives can test any toddler’s patience. They can also test any adult’s patience, so it’s understandable. Audiobooks, colouring books, or their favourite soft toy can save the day. Want to earn that parent of the year award? Surprise them with a new toy during the trip. The novelty can keep them occupied for hours… Who knew?!