Make breakfast the first stop of the day. Children will find endless ways to entertain themselves with a pad of paper and crayons. Provide each child with a personal tape player so they can listen to their favorite music or audiobook. Handheld computer games and favorite storybooks are also great ways for children to pass the miles. Create visual games for very young players.
Cars have a finite amount of luggage space.
Set limits as to types, sizes and numbers of toys that will be allowed. Give each child a backpack and allow them to pack it with their favorite toys. Attach plastic hanging shoe organizers to the backs of the front seats, and let children fill the shoe pockets with their toys. Teach children, even young ones, to read maps. Get an extra map, draw the route with a highlighter and help the child follow along.