Boxes are packed, cleaning is done, and it’s time to depart for your new home. Kids may be excited at the prospect of a trip, but you may be wondering how to keep them occupied during the long drive. Check out the list below for recommendations on how to make long distance moving more fun.

How to Make Long Distance Moving Fun for Kids

1. Make a Travel Binder

This task takes a little advance planning but will keep kids entertained for hours. Fill the binder with puzzles, stickers, car bingo games, coloring pages with their favorite cartoon characters, and a zip pouch with pens, crayons, and pencils. The binder helps keep papers and supplies organized and the car neat.

2. Audiobooks

Recorded books are a wonderful way to pass the time for everyone. If appropriate for your kids’ age, choose longer books or a series that can keep them engaged for hours. Load up phones, MP3 players, or laptops with books and have car chargers and adapter cords within easy reach. Audiobooks can also be a fantastic way to get kids to sleep.

3. Movies

Even if your car doesn’t have backseat screens for movie viewing, a laptop or tablet will do. Download movies and watch the hours roll by during your long distance moving trip. Don’t forget the headphones for each child if you don’t want to listen to cartoons for the whole trip.

4. Noticing Games

Games like I-spy, Slug Bug, license plate spotting, and car bingo are fantastic ways to take a break from screens and encourage kids to observe the world they are passing through. Have treats or prizes on hand for winners.

5. Make Kid-Friendly Stops

Research the route ahead of time and find restaurants or rest break areas that will appeal to kids. Show them where you’ll be stopping and give them approximate times. Use the GPS function on your phone or tablet to chart the trip progress. This is also a terrific way to learn some geography.

6. Musical Instruments

Bring along the drum, ukulele, or any other musical instrument that kids like to play with. Encourage them to play along with recorded music or to contribute to a family sing along. 

Long car trips are easier for kids when you plan ahead. A Smooth Move serves the Cincinnati and Mason, OH, areas with local and long distance moving. They are a professional packing and moving company that will take the stress out of moving day. Visit their website to learn more about their service areas or call (513) 481-1316 for a free estimate.​​​​​​​