Toddler survival-kit car-essentials

By Ané Theron

Planning a trip that involves toddlers? Preparation is key! Here is what your toddler survival-kit will need to make your trip as stress-free as possible.

Sunscreen and hats, and sun visors for the windows

Slap the kids with sunscreen before you leave so they don’t burn if they sit in the hot sun – or even better, buy some inexpensive sun visors before you set off. Always have hats in the car for when you’re out sightseeing. Keep the sunscreen in your cubby hole.

Snacks and drinks

The healthy stuff only – save the Jelly Babies for emergency situations only – and by that we mean toddler-meltdowns after spending too many hours on the road! Pack non-messy padkos such as biltong, droëwors, diluted fruit juice, nuts and cut-up cucumber pieces. For divine sandwich ideas, click here. 

Music

Having your children’s favourite tunes on hand are a sure way to chill them out. But make sure the driver gets a turn to listen to his/her own music too, so he keeps his cool behind the wheel.

Wet wipes/cloths and tissues

For runny noses, messy mouths and sticky hands, this is a MUST. Also, you may find that you have to answer the call of nature in the middle of nowhere.

Anti-nausea remedies

Many kids struggle with motion sickness. Natural remedies include ginger lollies available from Dischem, or good old ginger ale. Bear in mind that ginger ale is high in sugar, though. Ask your chemist about something stronger if these don’t work.

Devices (and chargers)

We’re not saying your kids should play on their tablets / phones for the entire journey, but they do come in handy when the little ones get grumpy and restless. Pack chargers, and if there are multiple devices, a multi-USB hub that plugs into your car’s cigarette-lighter socket.