Before You Go

• Start planning your trip well in advance of embarking on your adventure and include everyone. Including the kids on the travel plans will keep them from feeling strung along and give them more to look forward to.
  
  Once the adults have decided on a budget and an end destination, bring the kids in to help plan the route and stops along the way. Smaller kids may need suggestions, but older kids should be encouraged to do their own research on the Internet and with travel guides.
  
  Some kids will also benefit from spending a night or two in the RV before the trip to adjust to the atmosphere. This is especially true for young children who have not stayed away from home and children who do not travel often.
  
  

On The Road

• An on-board kitchen and bathroom may make it tempting for the adults to drive straight through from one destination to the next, but this is a recipe for disaster when traveling with kids.
  
  RVs are a lot more roomy than traditional vehicles and travel games, road games, music, movies and video games will keep kids entertained to a certain extent. However, kids are still full of energy and not stopping to let them run wild once in a while will result in moody kids or, worse, an attempt at a game of tag in the coach.
  Impromptu stops are a good cure for antsy kids. Have them watch for signs for attractions and sights that they may be interested in. You may all be surprised at what you find. Off of I-44 in Missouri for example sits the world's largest rocking chair, something you probably won't find in a guide book. Finding the local park with a playground is excellent for younger kids also.
  
  

Chores

• RVs are like miniature households and unlike hotels they do not come with room service or housekeepers. Children need to know that they are still expected to do their share of chores while on this vacation. Making the expectations clear will avoid a mid-trip meltdown. If you have a clear division of chores at home they may be transferable to your trip, but if not then let each child know exactly what is expected of them.
  
  Give each child their own area of the RV to store their belongings and make it clear that this area is their responsibility to keep neat and tidy. You may also assign other chores, such as taking out the garbage or cleaning up after meals.
  
  Older kids may also benefit by assisting with navigation. Beyond giving the adults a break, this task will help older children learn valuable skills and may pass the time for them as well.