The festive season is upon us, which spells vacation time for many! Unfortunately, this also means long road trips that could turn sour at any second.

And while travelling with children requires an extra amount of vigilance and care, keeping the little ones safe, happy, and entertained is equally of importance. This, however, can be a manageable part of what should be a time to make new memories filled with fun.

Here are a few things to bear in mind when carrying your precious cargo from point A to B and all the moments in between:

• Ensure your child has the right car or booster seat. Children under two need to be in rear-facing child seats, and children under 12 or shorter than 150cm should use a booster seat. Kids older than 12 should always wear seatbelts.
• The lower part of the seat belt goes across the pelvis, not the stomach. The upper part should go across the chest and collarbone and never touch the face or neck. Never put the shoulder belt behind your child’s back or under their arm.
• Keep junk food to a minimum. Pack healthy food, snacks, and water but steer clear of food a child could choke on or anything with too much sugar.
• Beware of loose items that could be hazards. Drink containers, iPads, handbags, and toys can fly around the car in the event of an accident. Bring along toys that are safe to play with at all times.
• Prepare backup activities for when they get tired of digital entertainment. Put on their favourite music, sing-a-long karaoke style, or plan outdoor activities during breaks to help them stretch their little bodies to release pent-up energy.
• Dress them in comfortable clothing. For example, take their shoes off in the car if it makes them more relaxed, or let them wear PJs on a late-night drive.
• Avoid having a grumpy little one by maintaining a pleasant temperature in the car. If you feel hot and stuffy or too cold, then they are too.
• Ensure all your maintenance is up-to-date. This helps to avoid any breakdowns that can delay your trip and cause frustration. The aim is to arrive safely and happily.