10 things every parent should have in their car
Travelling with children is never easy, especially if you suffer a breakdown or are caught in a traffic jam. Being prepared for all events, including your child whining ‘Are we there yet? I’m bored,’ can help parents travel stress-free and can make children look forward to the adventure of a car journey.
With that in mind, here is a list of the ten things that every parent should have in their car to make life a little easier:
1. Medication
If your little ones have medication that they need to take daily, put a couple of days’ worth in your car. This is especially true for people with asthma, diabetes, severe allergies and any other conditions that can be potentially life-threatening. That way, if you have a delay or an accident you don’t have to worry about the kids going without their essential medication.
2. A first aid kit
Accidents can happen: from a cut finger or grazed knee to a car accident, it’s better to be prepared. You need to have the basics like latex gloves, plasters, tape, small scissors, disposable facemask, gauze and bandages.
3. A change of clothes for your little one
This is especially useful if you’re trapped in a traffic jam miles away from the services, or driving over a pothole-filled road whilst your child has a bottle of juice. Rather than leave the little one wet and uncomfortable until you get home, keep a change of clothes in your car, just in case!
4. Carrier bags
Unfortunately, motion sickness is common in small children: save your car interior by keeping a couple of carrier bags handy. Better to be safe than sorry!
5. Colouring books and crayons
If you have a breakdown it’s likely that your children will be irritable and maybe even a little frightened. Colouring books or other small toys will help to keep them distracted and entertained whilst you wait for the recovery team. These are also essential in non-emergency situations, like when your kids are bored and there’s an hour more of your journey to go!
6. Water and non-perishable snacks
In the event of a breakdown, or a terrible traffic jam, you’re all likely to get thirsty and hungry, which can lead to very cranky children! Keep a couple of bottles of water and some non-perishable snacks, like crackers or crisps, in the car, just in case!
7. Torch
Get one that you wind up so you won’t need batteries. This is perfect for evening breakdowns, especially if your children are afraid of the dark. A torch is also great for unpacking during late-night arrivals.
8. Toilet Paper/Baby wipes
You never know when your children will need to go, and toilet paper always comes in handy when you stop at a service station or public toilet that might not have any!
9. Umbrella
This is not only useful in the rain, of course, but also in the heat to keep the sun off your children’s sensitive skin. This is especially important if you are travelling with a baby.
10. Jacket and Hat and gloves
Breakdowns are more likely to happen in the winter, so carry a jacket, warm hat and gloves for everyone in the car during the season: that way if you break down and have to turn your engine (and heat) off you can all stay cosy.
