If you have toddlers, you know that they require a lot of attention and can be easily distracted. That’s why a road trip can be a challenging and stressful experience, especially if you’re driving a long distance. However, with the right tools and technology, you can make the most of your car and keep your little ones entertained and safe on the road.
The Technology that is Crucial to the Toddler Travel Experience
One of the keys to a successful road trip with toddlers is keeping them entertained. While you can always bring books, toys, and games to keep them busy, smart devices such as tablets and laptops can also be a lifesaver. YouTube Kids, a separate app specifically designed for children, is an excellent resource for educational and entertaining videos that your toddlers will love. You can also download movies and TV shows onto your device to keep them occupied during long stretches of driving.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that most experts recommend that screens should not be the primary source of entertainment for your toddlers. Use them sparingly and balance them with other activities, such as singing songs, playing games, and looking out the window.
Must Have for the road trip: Long Charging Cables
One of the biggest challenges of using smart devices on a road trip is keeping them charged. That’s where long charging cables come in handy. By having a charging cable that is long enough to reach the front of the car, you can keep your devices powered up while your toddlers are using them in the backseat. Make sure to bring a few extra cables in case one gets lost or damaged.
Anker Powerline+ II Lightning Cable (10 ft)
This is a must have if you have iPhones and iPads for the parents and children. Check the product listing for compatibility.
100W USB C to USB C Cable 10ft Right Angle
This cable is for most modern android phones such as Samsung, Motorola and other USB C devices. We went through too many cables that were damaged at the base. The right angled design is a cable savior. Check the product listing for compatibility.
Long USB C Cable Fast Charging, etguuds Nylon Braided USB A to Type C
This braided cable is the excellent at navigating from the front of the car to the backseat. Check the product listing for compatibility.
Micro USB Cable 10ft 3Pack by Ailun High Speed 2.0 USB A Male to Micro USB
This micro USB cables allows you to be mobile in the car far away from the power source.
Smart Devices Such as Tablets and Hotspot Ideas
In addition to tablets and laptops, there are other smart devices that can be useful on a road trip with toddlers. For example, a portable hotspot can give you access to the internet even in areas where there is no Wi-Fi. This is especially useful if your toddlers need to use educational apps or websites that require an internet connection. You can also bring a portable charger or a power bank to keep your hotspot charged.
Tablets
There are many tablets on the market that are designed specifically for young children and are suitable for use by toddlers and preschoolers. Some popular options include the Amazon Fire Kids Edition tablet, the LeapFrog Epic Academy Edition tablet, and the VTech InnoTab Max Kids Learning Tablet. These tablets often come with features such as durable case covers, parental controls, and access to a wide range of educational and entertainment apps.
iPads can be a useful tool for young children, as they offer a wide range of educational and entertainment apps that can help children learn and have fun. Many apps are designed specifically for young children and can help them develop skills such as problem-solving, language, and math. iPads can also be a useful tool for parents, as they can be used to access online resources and keep children entertained during long car rides or flights.
It is important to consider the age and needs of your child when selecting a tablet. For very young children, a tablet with large buttons and simple controls may be more appropriate. As children get older, they may be ready for a more advanced tablet with additional features such as a camera, internet access, and the ability to download apps from an app store. It is also important to consider the device’s durability, as children may be more prone to dropping or damaging the tablet. iPads are generally more expensive than other tablets, and may not be as durable as devices specifically designed for children. That being said, there are some excellent protective ipad cases that make them less-risky for young children to use.
All-new Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids (2022 release)
Apple iPad 9.7inch with WiFi 32GB- Space Gray (2017 Model) (Renewed)
SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab A8 10.5” 64GB, Long Lasting Battery, Kids Content
Tablet Cases
There are several important factors to consider when choosing a tablet case:
- Compatibility: Make sure the case is compatible with your specific make and model of tablet.
- Protection: Consider the level of protection you need. Some cases offer more protection than others, such as water-resistant or shock-resistant materials.
- Design: Think about the design of the case and whether it meets your needs. Some cases have built-in stands or handles, while others may have a keyboard or other additional features.
- Material: Consider the material of the case and whether it is durable and easy to clean.
- Size: Make sure the case fits your tablet properly and allows easy access to all buttons and ports.
- Price: Determine your budget and choose a case that fits your price range.
It is also a good idea to read reviews and do research on different case options before making a decision- that’s why we’re helping you out with this!
SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle Pro Series Case for iPad 10.2 (2021/2020/2019)
iPad 6th/5th Generation Case 2018/2017, iPad Air 2 Case, iPad Pro 9.7 Case
BMOUO Kids Case for Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 10.5 Inch 2022
Power Banks
Power banks can be a useful tool for road trips, as they allow you to charge your devices on the go without needing to rely on a power outlet. This can be especially useful if you are traveling to a remote area or if you need to use your phone or tablet for navigation, communication, or entertainment during the trip.
There are many different types of power banks available, ranging in size, capacity, and price. It is important to consider the needs of your devices and choose a power bank with a capacity that is sufficient to charge them fully. It is also a good idea to choose a power bank with multiple USB ports, so that you can charge multiple devices at the same time.
It is important to note that power banks do require periodic recharging, so it is a good idea to bring a charging cable and to plan for opportunities to recharge the power bank during the trip. Power banks can be a useful addition to your road trip kit, but it is important to use them responsibly and to ensure that you have a backup plan in case the power bank runs out of charge.
Power-Bank-Portable-Charger-Solar – 36800mAh Waterproof Portable External Backup Battery Charger Built-in Dual QC 3.0 5V3.1A
Anker Portable Charger, 313 Power Bank (PowerCore Slim 10K) 10000mAh Battery Pack
ROMOSS 30000mAh Power Bank Sense 8+, 18W PD USB C Portable Charger with 3 Outputs
Hotspots
Hot spots, or portable wireless internet routers, can be a useful tool for road trips with toddlers as they allow you to access the internet while on the go. This can be especially helpful if you are traveling to a remote area or if you need to use online maps or other navigation tools while on the road. Hot spots can also provide entertainment for toddlers by allowing them to access educational games, videos, and other online resources.
However, it is important to keep in mind that hot spots rely on a cellular data connection, which may not always be reliable or available in certain areas. As with any use of technology, it is important to find a balance and to make sure that it is used in a way that enhances, rather than detracts from, the overall experience of the road trip.
AT&T
NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot (MR1100-100NAS) – Up to 1Gbps Speed, Works Best with AT&T and T-Mobile
AT&T Turbo Hotspot 2, 256 MB, Black – Prepaid Hotspot
UNLOCKED Netgear Unite Explore 815S 4G LTE Mobile Wifi Rugged Hotspot (Renewed)
Verizon
Verizon Jetpack Hotspot WiFi Device – 4G LTE MiFi 8800L
Orbic Speed 5G UW
Verizon Orbic Speed Mobile Hotspot
T-Mobile
NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot (MR1100-100NAS) – Up to 1Gbps Speed, Works Best with AT&T and T-Mobile
Inseego MiFi M2000 5G and 4G LTE Hotspot T-Mobile
Franklin T10 T-Mobile Hotspot
Road Trip essentials: Mirrors and Backseat Baby Monitors
While you’re driving, it’s important to keep an eye on your toddlers in the backseat. A backseat baby monitor can help you see what they’re doing and ensure that they are safe and comfortable. You can also use a rear-view mirror that attaches to the headrest of the front seat, allowing you to see your toddlers in the rearview mirror. This can be especially useful if you’re driving in a minivan, which may have limited visibility in the back.
Shynerk Baby Car Mirror, 4.3” HD Night Vision Function Car Mirror Display
Baby Car Mirror Most Stable Backseat Mirror with Premium Matte Finish-Super Clear PMMA Material Mirror-Safe, Secure and Shatterproof,Black
Family Road Trips Safety: Essential Roadside Assistance Tools to Keep in the Van
When you’re on the road with toddlers, it’s critical to be prepared for the unexpected. That’s why it’s a good idea to have some essential roadside assistance tools in your minivan. Some of the items you should consider packing include jumper cables, portable air compressors, a compact jump starter, and a flashlight.
AUTOGEN Heavy Duty Jumper Cables, Booster Cables 2 Gauge 25Feet
This cable is sturdy and can handle high currents, and have a 2 Gauge thickness for efficient power transfer. The longer cables also provide easy access to car batteries, even when cars are far apart. We have used these set for years.
NOCO Boost Plus GB40 1000 Amp 12-Volt UltraSafe Lithium Jump Starter Box
The GB40 jump starter pack safely jump starts dead batteries in seconds with its 1000-amp portable lithium power. It can provide up to 20 jump starts on a single charge. It is safe and easy to use with spark-proof technology and reverse polarity protection, and can also function as a power bank and LED flashlight. It has a high-discharge lithium technology for safe use in any climate and a rugged, water-resistant enclosure. It is compact and lightweight, weighing only 2.4 pounds.
GSPSCN Portable Digital Car Tire Inflator with Gauge
This portable tire inflator is designed for fast inflation and features a bright LED light for use in low light conditions. It also has an LCD digital pressure gauge for precise inflation. With these features, it is a convenient and reliable tool for inflating car tires on the go. We never leave without it.
GearLight TAC LED Flashlight
This bright and durable flashlight is made from military-grade aluminum and is water-resistant. It is small and compact, making it easy to carry in your pocket, backpack, or purse. With its one-touch technology, it delivers a powerful beam whenever you need it. This tactical flashlight is useful for camping, power outages, roadside repairs, and emergencies.
In Conclusion
Road tripping with toddlers can be a challenging and stressful experience, but with the right tools and technology, you can make the most of your minivan and keep your little ones entertained and safe on the road. From tablets and laptops to long charging cables and backseat baby monitors, there are many ways to make your trip comfortable.