RV travel with kids in the summer is the perfect time to hit the road with your family and explore the great outdoors. Whether you’re seasoned RV travelers or planning your first trip, this guide will provide you with essential tips and tricks to make your summer RV travel with kids an unforgettable experience.

Traveling by RV offers a unique blend of adventure, comfort, and the opportunity to create lasting memories with your kids.

1. Plan Your Route and Stops

Before you hit the road, it’s crucial to plan your route and make reservations at campgrounds and RV parks in advance. Summer is a popular time for travel, and many places can fill up quickly.

• Research Campgrounds: Look for family-friendly campgrounds that offer amenities such as playgrounds, swimming pools, and hiking trails.
• Map Out Stops: Plan for frequent stops to let the kids stretch their legs, have a snack, and burn off some energy.
• Use Apps: Utilize travel apps like RV Trip Wizard to plan your route and find interesting stops along the way.

2. Pack Smart and Light

Space in an RV is limited, so packing smart and light is essential. Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently:

• Clothing: Pack versatile clothing that can be layered. Don’t forget swimsuits, hats, and plenty of sunscreen.
• Toys and Games: Bring along a few favorite toys and games to keep the kids entertained during downtime.
• Outdoor Gear: Include items like bicycles, fishing gear, and hiking boots to encourage outdoor activities.

3. Keep Kids Entertained on the Road

Long drives can be challenging for kids, so it’s important to have a variety of entertainment options to keep them occupied.

• Road Trip Games: Classic games like “I Spy,” “License Plate Bingo,” and “20 Questions” can keep kids engaged and entertained.
• Audiobooks and Podcasts: Choose family-friendly audiobooks and podcasts that everyone can enjoy together. We LOVE The Trivia for Kids Podcast!
• Screen Time: Download movies, shows, and educational apps for the kids to watch on tablets during long stretches of the drive.

4. Make the Most of Your Campsite

Once you’ve arrived at your campsite, make it a fun and comfortable home base for your family.

• Set Up a Kid-Friendly Space: Create a designated area for the kids with a picnic blanket, outdoor toys, and a small tent or shade structure.
• Campfire Fun: Plan for campfire activities like making s’mores, telling stories, and stargazing.
• Explore Nature: Encourage your kids to explore the natural surroundings by organizing scavenger hunts or nature walks.

5. Plan Kid-Friendly Activities

Keeping the kids active and engaged is key to a successful RV trip. Here are some ideas for kid-friendly activities:

• Water Fun: Look for campsites with lakes, rivers, or pools where kids can swim, kayak, or paddleboard.
• Hiking and Biking: Find family-friendly trails for hiking or biking. Make sure to choose trails that are suitable for all ages.
• Local Attractions: Research local attractions such as museums, zoos, and amusement parks that you can visit along your route.

6. Embrace Flexibility

While planning your RV travel with kids is important, it’s also crucial to remain flexible and adaptable. Unexpected changes and challenges are part of the adventure.

• Weather Changes: Be prepared for sudden weather changes by packing rain gear and having indoor activities planned.
• Adjust Plans: If a particular activity or destination isn’t working out, be willing to adjust your plans and try something new.
• Relax and Enjoy: Remember that the goal of the trip is to spend quality time together. Don’t stress over minor setbacks and focus on creating positive memories.

7. Prioritize Safety

Safety should always be a top priority when traveling with kids.

• First Aid Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit in your RV and make sure you know how to use it.
• Safety Gear: Ensure that everyone has the proper safety gear for activities like biking, swimming, and hiking.
• Emergency Plan: Have an emergency plan in place and make sure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.

8. Make Time for Learning

Traveling is a great opportunity for kids to learn and grow.

• Educational Activities: Incorporate educational activities like visiting historical sites, science centers, and nature reserves.
• Travel Journals: Encourage your kids to keep a travel journal where they can document their experiences, draw pictures, and collect mementos.
• Interactive Learning: Use apps and guides to learn about the flora, fauna, and geology of the areas you’re visiting.

9. Connect with Other RV Families

One of the best parts of RV travel is the community you can connect with along the way.

• Join RV Groups: Join RV family groups on social media to share tips, ask questions, and plan meet-ups.
• Attend Rallies: Look for RV rallies and events that are family-friendly and offer activities for kids.
• Make New Friends: Encourage your kids to make friends at campgrounds and participate in group activities.

10. Capture the Memories

Finally, make sure to capture all the wonderful memories you’re creating.

• Take Photos and Videos: Document your journey with plenty of photos and videos. Encourage your kids to take their own pictures too.
• Create a Scrapbook: Put together a scrapbook of your travels with photos, ticket stubs, and other memorabilia.
• Share Your Adventures: Share your adventures on social media to inspire other families to embark on their own RV journeys.

Summer RV travel with kids is an incredible way to bond as a family, explore new places, and create lasting memories. With careful planning, a sense of adventure, and these helpful tips, you’re sure to have an unforgettable summer on the road. So pack up the RV, hit the open road, and let the adventure begin!