Pack many healthy snack items and sandwiches that will satisfy your child's hunger, especially if you can't stop for meals en route. Not only will this occupy your child, it can potentially keep her on a more even keel than if she were allowed to snack on candy and other junk foods that lead to more extreme changes in blood sugar levels. These can provide comfort as well as entertainment. Instead of unloading the entire supply of toys in the first half hour of driving, however, bring only a few out at a time and introduce different toys as the trip progresses. This will hold your child's interest more effectively in the long run.
Some parents wrap small toys as gifts and allow their child to open items periodically.
These toys could be inexpensive, new items or toys you already have at home. Just the excitement of opening a package is enough to satisfy some children. Kids who are a little older might enjoy imaginary play. With a supply of finger or hand puppets, they can spend hours in the back seat of the car putting on plays and acting out stories. We've purchased puzzles in which the pieces can't come out of the frame, but can be slid around until all the pieces are in their rightful places.