How To Keep Kids Entertained In A Campervan

When it comes to road trips, a camper van represents the pinnacle of freedom and adventure. However, the question at the forefront of every parent's mind is invariably "How To Keep Kids Entertained In A Campervan?" The key is to be prepared and cater to your children's innate curiosity and abundant energy.

Keeping Kids Entertained While Driving

Driving in a campervan offers a unique opportunity to captivate children with the changing scenery. However, there will be stretches of the journey that might lack visual stimulation. This is when having a repertoire of games and conversations is invaluable.

Traditional games such as "I Spy" and "Twenty Questions" can keep the kids entertained for a significant part of the journey.

Remember, the aim is not just to keep them occupied, but also to stimulate their brains and nurture their creativity.

Talking about the journey and the places you are driving through can also keep children engaged. Discuss the nature, culture, and specialities of the areas you're passing. Include them in decisions related to the drive, like selecting the music or narrating a map.

Best Break Spots for Campervan Road Trips

Fast Food Restaurants:

 Family trips are always better with a quick, familiar bite. Fast-food restaurants offer a range of kid-friendly meals and clean restrooms. They are conveniently located along most major routes, making them an easy choice for a swift stop. Plus, the whole family can enjoy a break from the road with fun playgrounds, perfect for stretching little legs and burning off some energy.

Their consistent menus mean you know exactly what to expect, which can be a real comfort when travelling with fussy eaters. Additionally, many fast food chains provide free Wi-Fi, so you can catch up on messages or plan your next route stop.

Parks: 

Parks are ideal for a family break during a campervan road trip. Children can run around, play on the swings, and enjoy a picnic in the fresh air. These green spaces provide a refreshing change of scenery from the confines of a campervan. Parents can relax and take in the natural beauty, often with scenic views and well-maintained landscaping.

Many parks also have clean facilities and secure play areas, making them perfect for a pit stop. Furthermore, parks often have walking trails or nature paths, giving the whole family a chance to stretch and explore a little more.

Cafes:

Cafes make a charming stop for families on the go. They provide a cosy atmosphere with delicious snacks and hot drinks that can be a welcome change from fast food. Kids can enjoy a treat while parents sip on a coffee or a comforting tea. Some cafes even offer light lunches, like sandwiches and soups, perfect for a leisurely break.

Outdoor seating is a common feature in many cafes, allowing children to play nearby in a safe environment as parents unwind. The local feel of a cafe can also offer a brief glimpse into the community, providing a more intimate travel experience.

Pubs: 

In the UK, family-friendly pubs are great for a rest on your road trip. Many have lovely gardens, playgrounds, and even kids’ menus packed with favourites. Parents can enjoy a hearty meal and a relaxing drink while children burn off energy in the play area.

Pubs often have historic charm and are set in picturesque locations, making them a comfortable spot to break up a long drive. Some pubs also host events or have live music, adding a layer of entertainment to your break. They are a quintessential British stop, offering both sustenance and relaxation for the entire family.

Dealing With Tantrums While Traveling

Dealing with tantrums while travelling can be challenging for any parent. It's essential to understand that children often struggle with long car journeys. These can trigger frustration and tantrums. Preparation before the trip is key. Make sure to pack their favourite toys and snacks. 

These can serve as distractions and help keep them entertained. During the trip, maintain a calm and positive attitude. Children pick up on stress and can react to it. If a tantrum starts, pull over safely and address their needs. Offer comfort and reassurance.

Encourage them to express what’s wrong in words instead of tears. It's also helpful to plan regular breaks during the journey. These breaks allow children to stretch, use the toilet, and release some of their pent-up energy. 

Keeping the journey interesting with games or music can also reduce the chances of a tantrum. Remember, patience and understanding are crucial when dealing with tantrums. Stay composed, and don't let frustration get the better of you. With the right strategies, you can manage tantrums effectively. Doing so will ensure a smoother and more pleasant journey for everyone involved.

Don't forget the travel snacks

Snacks are a vital part of any trip, especially on a campervan journey. Picking the right snacks for your children ensures a smooth and cheerful adventure. Good snacks should be healthy, easy to eat, and not too messy.

Fresh fruits, like apples or grapes, are great since they are both nutritious and handy. Cereal bars and crackers are also perfect as they're non-perishable and provide lasting energy. Cheese sticks are another good choice: they're high in protein and simple to handle, making them perfect for kids.

However, some snacks are less ideal for travel. For example, snacks that are too messy, like yoghurt or squishy fruits, are best avoided. Crisps, although a favourite, can be greasy and messy.

Too many sugary treats, such as sweets, can cause energy crashes, so there should be occasional indulgences. Surprising your kids with a cookie or a bite of chocolate now and then can lift their spirits. It will keep energy levels high, making the journey fun for everyone.

Best Items to Keep Kids Happy in a Campervan

Smartphones/Tablets: 

These gadgets are essential for keeping kids entertained in a campervan. They offer a variety of options such as games, videos, and educational apps that can keep kids engaged for hours.

Don't forget to pack headphones to maintain peace inside the campervan. This will allow everyone to enjoy their activities without disturbing each other. You might consider downloading offline content before your trip. This is in case of limited internet access during your travels.

Activity Books: 

Activity books are ideal for keeping kids occupied while travelling. These books can include a diverse range of activities such as puzzles, colouring pages, word games and even simple crafts. They can be both fun and educational, helping to stimulate children's minds while keeping them busy.

Make sure to bring along some coloured pencils, crayons and markers to go with them. Activity books are a great way to encourage creativity and learning, all while providing hours of entertainment.

Portable Gaming Consoles: 

Portable gaming consoles are a popular option for older kids. They offer a wider variety of games and can be an excellent way to pass time on long journeys. These consoles are designed to be easy to carry and use, making them perfect for travel.

Whether it's a racing game, puzzle game or adventure quest, portable gaming can make travel more enjoyable for kids. Ensure you pack spare batteries or a charger to keep the consoles powered up.

Board Games and Card Games: 

Classic board games and card games are excellent for family bonding and can be enjoyed by kids of various ages. Compact and travel-friendly versions of popular games like Monopoly, Scrabble, or Uno can provide hours of entertainment.

Choose games that are easy to set up and pack away, and make sure they are suitable for the age range of your children. These games can help pass the time on rainy days or in the evenings when everyone is together in the campervan.

Outdoor Toys and Sports Equipment:

Bringing along some outdoor toys and sports equipment can be a great way to keep kids active and happy. Items like a frisbee, soccer ball, or a set of badminton rackets can provide fun and exercise during stops at campgrounds or parks.

Consider packing a small, collapsible tent or a kite for some additional outdoor adventures. These activities can help kids burn off energy and enjoy the fresh air, making the travel experience more enjoyable for everyone.

We hope you enjoyed our article 'How To Keep Kids Entertained In A Campervan?' Get in touch to discuss your motorhome needs and let us show you how we can help!