When you’re on a family road trip, the only thing that beats the sight of a baby sleeping is the sight of a baby sleeping at the right time.

Photo credit: Heather Flett

I can’t promise you perfectly timed naps and roads clear of construction and traffic, but I can give you a few pointers as you plan your getaway. Before you pull out of the driveway, consider these tips:

1. Car. Get your car serviced before you get on the road. Increase your peace of mind with a full tank of gas, properly inflated tires and a carwash, too.
2. Maps. Know your best route before you start driving. Bring along maps or a handy dandy GPS unit.
3. Schedule. Plan your driving times to coincide with nap times, if at all possible. Bring along pacifiers, loveys and sleepytime music to encourage the rest.
4. Food. Pack a little cooler for chilled sippy cups of milk and healthy snacks for rest breaks. Please DO NOT give your child baby carrots or any choking hazard while driving.
5. Toys. With two little guys in car seats in the backseat, I keep a tote bag filled with toys and books they can reach themselves. No crayons … nothing with small pieces.
6. Music. Fill your iPod or make a mix CD of favorite kid’s music in addition to your own.
7. Rest. Expect that you’ll need to stop and stretch (or run!!) for about 20 minutes every two hours … at least.

Most importantly, keep your expectations in check. As long as you expect it to be a wild adventure with some tears and much, much slower than you’d travel on your own, you will have a great time!