What To Bring?

Safety first -- if you decide to rent a car, bring your own car seats. Chances are they are of a higher quality than those provided by rental car companies and more comfortable for the kids too. Bring along a first aid kit to treat minor mishaps. 

Just this once, go against your parenting books and let the television baby-sit your kids. Portable DVD players might just be the key to your sanity on a long trip -- you may want to go as far as to get one for each child. No arguments about whether to watch "Dora the Explorer" or "Spiderman" means peace and quiet for you.

Whatever you were planning on bringing in the way of snacks -- double it. And toss the rules about junk food on the roadside -- this is one time to let her have another cookie or him another juice box. One day of poor eating cannot destroy a life of healthy habits. Pack their favorite healthy snacks, and keep the junky ones for when you get desperate.

Some other items to consider -- books on CD, their favorite music CD's, blankets, pillows and favorite small toys. Coloring books and crayons will also keep the young ones occupied -- surprise them with a new one when the car gets moving. Keep the car clean by taking along a trash bag to collect the remains of snack time and moist wipes to clean up minor spills. An easily accessible (not packed deep in the trunk) change of clothes is a wise idea in case of spills or accidents.