Travel

Everything in this slideshow

Steven Vote

Mark the Miles

Before starting out on their first major expedition (an 18-hour drive to Florida from their home in Springfield, Ohio) with their 2-year-old and 4-year old, the Larsons hung little numbered tickets above each boy's car seat, one for every hour of the trip. "They were redeemed for wrapped treats they could play with or eat along the journey," says mom Therese. "They loved pulling down the ticket when I asked in my conductor voice: 'Tickets, please!'"

Easy Travel Toys

-Pipe cleaners (shape them into toys and sculptures)

-Aluminum foil (ditto)

-Uninflated balloons (to blow up and bat around at airports and rest stops)

-Glow-in-the-dark toys (when traveling at night)

Packing Tips

-Simplify hotel stops by packing everyone's overnight gear in one bag.

-Pack a bedtime car kit for days that run late, with jammies, toothbrushes, and blankets for each child.

-Use resealable plastic bags to separate outfits, stash swim gear, and store laundry before washing.

-Print a packing list for each child and put it in her suitcase so that she can use it to pack for the trip home.

-Bring a collapsible cooler to fill with snacks and lunches on day trips.

Originally published in the June/July 2012 issue of FamilyFun magazine.