8 hr road trip?

Hi. I'm visiting from the first year forum... A dear dear friend of mine who lives in London will be in the states for a few weeks in October. She'll be at her parents, an 8 hr drive from me. Am I crazy to consider taking an 8 hr road trip with the twins, who will be 14 months old then? I'd guess they'll be walking by then.. they've just started cruising pretty regularly. Anyone attempted this? Will they go absolutely bonkers if they are strapped in their carseats for that long?? (obviously, we'd have to take a bunch of breaks...) Hmm.... maybe I should try to fly. Anyway, just wondering if anyone has done this and had any thoughts/advice.

TIA!

-maria
DS1 4.5
DS2 DS3 11 months

 

I know some kids do great in the car, but personally if it was between an 8 hour drive or a 1 hour flight, I'd fly. If you do decide to drive, realize it won't take 8 hours, but much longer with all the breaks. Maybe break it up over 2 days? GL with your decision.

 

we just did a 9 hour road trip with our girls about a month ago (they were 11 months). the trip took us about 11 hours with the extra stops. i found the girls couldn't go much more than 2 hours at a time before needing to stop & get them out of their car seats for a little bit. it's definitely doable - have a plan but be ready to be flexible & you'll do fine. GL!

 

We do 7 hour road trips about every 6 weeks or so and have since the twins were tiny (we rotate between DC and CT). My suggestion is to leave right before their regular nap time. And, EXHAUST them before you leave. Bring lots of snacks and stuff to play with in the car. We sing a lot of songs. Point out trucks, planes, cars, buses, etc. (I've heard that the Doodle Pro's are great. I'm planning on picking up a couple before our next trip.). Take a long lunch and run them ragged at the rest area. Weather permitting, we do a picnic outside so that they can run in the grass. We lunch for at least an hour so that they get the energy out. Lots of favorite treats for after lunch (M&M's are a favorite). Another pit stop may be necessary depending on traffic and naps. Also, you need to accept that your car will be TRASHED. Seriously, a detailing may be necessary afterwards.

Good luck!!