Episode Details

With summer airfare through the roof, road trips are having a major moment — and honestly, they deserve it. In this episode, Melissa shares her best family road trip tips from two cross-country drives and multiple thousand-mile trips with her kids: how to plan your route, pack the car smart, keep everyone happy on long driving days, and use points, miles, and credit card perks to save big on hotels and gas.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro & why road trips make sense this summer
01:41 – Route planning: apps, mindset & building in buffer
06:04 – Packing the car: comfort, gear & staying organized
13:55 – Food & entertainment on the road
19:53 – Saving money: gas, tolls, hotels & park passes

Credit cards mentioned:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred
• Capital One Venture X
• United Explorer Card

Gear mentioned in this episode:

• Cigarette lighter USB power strip
• Inflatable footrest
• Mini cutting board & knife
• Portable jump starter & battery pack
• Yoto Mini
• Toniebox
• USB mini vacuum

Apps & tools:

• Roadtrippers
• Wanderlog
• GasBuddy
• CardPointers

Road trip guides on The Family Voyage:

• Michigan Road Trip Itinerary
• New York & Canada Road Trip
• Road Trip Tips with Kids

Have a question or a topic you'd like covered? Reach out at melissa@thefamilyvoyage.com or find me on Facebook/Instagram at @thefamilyvoyage.

If this episode was helpful, share it with a family who's figuring out their summer plans — and don't forget to leave a five-star review wherever you listen. It helps other families find the show!

Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone.

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