Here it is! This long-awaited moment has arrived, WE'RE GOING ON FAMILY VACATION! (Little dance of joy!) Who says family trip, says road to do with children on board, and who says road to do with children on board, says situation that can very easily degenerate!

Anyone who has ever driven several kilometers with young children knows that if you want to have a good time,
you have to be well prepared.

I remember the drive we took to the Gaspé Peninsula last year. We left before dawn, which made the trip very exciting. While the first few hours were enjoyable, the last few were rather trying. Baby Renaud, then a year old and counting, was crying his eyes out while the older ones complained about the length of the trip, asking every 5 minutes the FAMOUS question: "When do we get there?" Simone, for her part, was green and complaining of motion sickness, a plastic bag in her hands.

Plus, when my kids are bored, they start getting annoyed and picking on each other to kill time. I'm sure they're not the only ones who do that, right? Sharing the back seat of a car for a long distance can be tough on kids and can be a real test of parents' patience! I promised myself that the next time we had to drive that far, I would organize our time in the car and find a way to break up the trip to help the troops wait.

It is to help you with this famous preparation that my team and I have put all our creativity to work in order to offer you the special file "On the road". You will find plenty of tools and tips for preparing luggage, a travel journal with a coloring route to visualize the kilometers traveled and several activities to entertain all the passengers during the trip, but also to get them moving during the stops. In short, everything you need to make the journey without hassle (or at least with LESS hassle, you have to manage expectations anyway!!!). Your children will be amazed by the surprises and little activities that you have prepared. Cooperation guaranteed!

There is no question of setting off on a long-distance road trip without preparing something to keep the children busy, and that is why we have created a travel journal specially designed for them, where they will find everything they need to make the trip enjoyable and quick.

That’s it, everything is ready, you’ve got everything prepared and you’re getting ready to hit the road! A road trip with kids can be scary. Don’t worry, we’ve got plenty of ideas to make the journey more enjoyable for everyone.

To avoid having to find a restaurant or convenience store every time you get hungry, prepare this tasty batch cooking recipe before you leave, suggested by our collaborator Sonia Lizotte and her Culinary Squad.

Our roadtrip tips

• The right containers: Airtight, compartmentalized dishes will be very useful. Each child has their own dish!
• Spill-proof bottles : Bring a water bottle with a spill-proof spout for each child. You can use them in the car or on hikes.
• The travel trash can: There are several models of trash can for the car. Opt for an airtight trash can that can keep liquids and odors inside.
• Electric Cooler: No more ice with a cooler that plugs into your car's outlet. Plus, you can plug it in your hotel room and keep your food fresh longer.
• Cleanup: Moist washcloths in a reusable bag are a lifesaver! Have a washcloth and bag for each child. You can also opt for unscented disposable wet wipes. Paper towels are a great way to clean up messes!

How nice it is to come home after the holidays, especially when the drive has been long! For a smooth return to reality, the whole family gets involved in the chores and does their part to empty the car, clean everything and return to its place. Discover the tools and tips to make it happen in the practical guide!