Planning (and Surviving) a Road Trip with Teenagers |
What to do when the excitement of “going on an adventure with mommy and daddy” turns into “being TRAPPED in the back seat with wardens up front”.
Just face it, gone are the days when your child is content to go anywhere with you, on your terms, and be totally complacent, thrilled and fulfilled, just because he or she is in your presence. And please don’t let it get you down. For teenagers, this is a perfectly normal part of growing up, so your best bet is to laugh about it and make the most of the situation.Include your teen in the planning process. Make sure there’s something in it for them at your destination.
Luckily, our whole family enjoys the music of a European band called “Muse”. When we discovered they were playing in Montreal, we bought concert tickets for the whole family and then planned a 5 day trip around beautiful Old Montreal, taking in other local attractions as well.
We’ve done the same when a different group was playing in Boston. We all attended the concert, and used the opportunity to explore the lovely city of Boston. Everyone had a great time!
There’s a fantastic ski resort that happens to be located a grueling eight hour drive from our home. Nobody complains about the drive because the destination couldn’t be better. They LOVE to ski! Simple! Luckily, many of their friend’s families go also which, of course, helps immensely when it comes to the social aspect. Which leads me to my next point….
Consider inviting a friend. Especially for only children, this remedy can ease a lot of pain. It doesn’t mean they don’t like or love you any less, but no parent can replace the special connection and fun teens share with their peers.
No matter what, make sure your teen doesn’t forget their iPod! These little gadgets are a must-have, especially for long distance trips. Everyone gets to listen to exactly what they want, when they want it. Being able to “tune out” from one another periodically can keep the peace and give everyone some space. Which leads me to my next point…
Space. Consider getting two adjoining rooms instead of one room. My husband and I have shared one room with two queen size beds and a cot jammed in with our three teenagers and I have one big question. Why do teenage boys love to break wind continuously? At least you can quickly open a window when it happens in the car! For this, and MANY other reasons, I highly recommend going for two rooms at a budget inn, verses one room at a higher end location. You may even save money, and you will all have more privacy. Which leads me to my next point…
Keep your trip short. Travelling with teens is expensive. Plus, being in close quarters for an extended period of time will eventually get on everyone’s nerves, and that doesn’t mean we don’t love each other! It’s just a fact of life. Great memories and wonderful bonding experiences don’t take two weeks to happen.
Use this opportunity to relax and enjoy each other. Cherish this stage of your teenager’s life, and appreciate them, just as they are.
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