A picnic by a playground can really hit the spot when you are on the road. Try to leave early in the morning and arrive before dark so your kids can familiarize themselves with their surroundings. In the car it is essential to keep kids entertained, or at least occupied. Give kids as much space as possible for toys and activity. A solid writing surface, such as a bean-bag lap desk, is a real asset.
Kids love to watch grownups act goofy.
Sing songs, tell silly stories, play games, do whatever makes you and your kids happy. Consider the ride a special part of your vacation and cherish the time together. Even on the most well-planned car ride children will fidget, bicker or whine. It is their way of expressing boredom or discomfort. One way to deal with this is to plan surprises along the way.