Genius travel hacks to keep your kids entertained when driving

Road trips with kids can be daunting, but with a few of these nifty things up your sleeves and a little bit of preparation, before you hit the road, you will be counting down the days to your next family weekend road trip adventure in no time.

Ditch the technology and try out a scavenger hunt for some old fashioned family fun on your next drive. Create a list with pictures (for extra fun) of the people, places and things you are most likely to see on your road trip for example red cars, bridges, a toll booth, a boat, a horse. Make a printout copy of the list for each family member and have your kids tick off all the things they see along the way. Alternatively, you can download and print off one we prepared early here.

Prepare a small prize box with affordable and fun toys or treats that you can share over the course of the trip as they complete their scavenger hunt. It is a great way to keep the kids engaged and happy throughout the journey, especially when there are prizes involved.

Did you ever have a lava lamp as a kid and absolutely love it? Well, guess what, they're back and more sparkly than ever. These DIY glitter sensory bottles can be made with just a few items you already have lying around at home including an empty water bottle or jar (VOSS bottles work perfectly), glitter glue, glitter, water and super glue to seal it shut once completed for mess-free play. For extra fun, add in your children’s favourite small toys such as a little dinosaur or cartoon character figurine.

These sensory bottles are a genius way to keep the kids entertained as they watch the sparkles move around and catch the light, but as the glitter descends to the bottom, this has a really relaxing and calming effect on kids and helps them overcome those temper tantrums. Keep the tears at bay and the parents saying yay!

Food is the way to everyone's heart and with this DIY bento-style lunch box, your kids won't be able to wipe the smile off their faces. Plus you might just be able to dodge those fast food stopovers during your road trip too. Purchase a compartment storage box from your local department store (or repurpose one you have at home) and fill it with a variety of your kids' favourite healthy snacks and fun-sized foods. Thank yourself later as you keep the kids entertained and happy with endless choices to snack on throughout the drive.

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