Traveling checklist for kids in a car
Use this guide to help you tailor your child’s checklist for your next trip. Keep kids entertained and happy during long car rides.

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Everyone has their own seat, so everyone has their own area. When traveling in a car, it’s essential to keep things together. As there isn’t a lot of space, a bag which holds all of their things is a great idea. Learn how to create a car bag filled with personalized items and engaging activities.
What is a car bag?
The car bag is packed by the child. Give them the essentials list that must be in their bag. The child can then add other items. Depending on the age, you might want to check the bag. The child’s car bag is placed next to them in the car.
My Kid’s Suitcase Set
I found this Rockwell on Amazon years ago. They have been working perfectly for them for the past 5 years. When you open the suitcase, there is enough room for your child’s items. On the inside where it opens, there is a zippered mesh compartment. You can see the two outside pockets. These have held up for many trips in the car and on the plane.
The tote bag is the “car bag.” This bag has many pockets and can fit everything they need to have with them while they are in the car.
The car bag helps the child to prioritize what they can bring. As everything has to go in the bag.
They pack it, you approve it which is why they should be quite happy in the car!

Essential items that must be in every child’s bag:
This is part of how to keep kids happy on a road trip. Here are my must haves all my children should have in their car bag:
- Sun glasses
- Headphones: My kids preferred the over the ear ones instead of the earbuds.
- Snacks: These are selected by each child. This is great way to organize snacks. Each child can have their own or you can combine them.
- Water bottle
- iPads and chargers: Games and movies are all downloaded if they aren’t using a hot spot.
- 1″ Binder: The binder holds paper games, maps, journal pages, etc. that fit the child’s interest.
- Writing utensils: Pencils, colored pencils, crayons, etc. to use in the binder.
- Pillow and blanket: These do not go in the bag. We always travel with our pillows. No exceptions.
Other items to add to their car bag:
Personalizing their bag will help them stay happy. Here is some things my kids have added to their bags:
- Small stuffed animals
- Puzzle books: Suduko, word finds, ect.
- Books
- Magnetic games like this chess set.
- A deck of cards and other card games.
Check out my other post on Now to Keep Kids Happy on a Road Trip:
Have any items you bring that aren’t listed above? Let me know in the comments below!