RVing with Kids: Tips, Tricks, and Travel Hacks for a Smooth Journey
Vacations bring excitement, memories, and a chance to unplug from everyday life. But if you really want to elevate the fun, an RV adventure can be a game-changer. There’s something special about hitting the open road with your family, taking in new sights, and having the flexibility to stop wherever the journey takes you. It’s travel on your terms—and for kids, it can feel like one big sleepover on wheels.
Still, every parent knows that traveling with young children comes with its own set of challenges. The best way to kick off your RV journey is by choosing a kid-friendly destination—and Lake Wales, Florida, checks all the boxes. It's scenic, relaxed, and full of family-friendly outdoor fun that won’t break your budget.
In this article, you’ll find practical tips, tricks, and travel hacks to make RVing with kids not only manageable—but memorable.
1. Book Your RV Resort Ahead of Time (and Choose Smartly)
Waiting until the last minute to find a spot for your RV can lead to disappointment, especially during peak seasons. Booking in advance gives you peace of mind and better options. In a place like Lake Wales, location matters. You'll want to be close to outdoor attractions, including all the free things to do in Lake Wales FL, like hiking, especially if you're traveling with kids who need frequent breaks or spontaneous playtime.
The Resort at Canopy Oaks stands out as a top choice for families. It offers spacious, full hook-up RV sites, clean restrooms, and a wide range of kid-friendly amenities. It’s also close to Lake Wales’ best free activities, making it easy to explore the area without long drives. With both fun and comfort in one place, it’s the kind of base camp that helps turn a good trip into a great one.
2. Make a Realistic Travel Plan (and Share it with the Kids)
Kids handle travel better when they know what to expect. Laying out a basic plan helps them feel included and reduces those dreaded “Are we there yet?” questions. Let your children know the general schedule: how long you'll be driving, when you'll stop, and what’s planned once you arrive. Of course, plans might change, but having a structure can help avoid anxiety and crankiness. Build in buffer time for bathroom breaks, playground stops, or short hikes to let off steam.
3. Pack Strategically: Not Too Much, Not Too Little
Packing for an RV trip requires balance. Overpacking can turn your RV into a cluttered mess while underpacking might leave you without the essentials. Focus on clothing that works for different activities. Pack enough for a few days and plan to do laundry on longer trips. Bring any comfort items your kids can’t do without—favorite blankets, bedtime toys, or a nightlight if they use one.
4. Stock Up on Snacks and Simple Meals
Snacks are a must when traveling with kids. They help pass the time, prevent mood swings, and keep everyone energized between meals. Choose options that are easy to store and don’t create a mess—fruit cups, string cheese, crackers, and granola bars are all great picks. For meals, plan things you can cook quickly with minimal cleanup. Keep things simple, and you’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the journey.
5. Set Up Zones Inside the RV
When you’re traveling with kids, space matters. And in an RV, every inch counts. One of the easiest ways to bring some order to the chaos is by setting up defined zones. Kids need their own little space to feel secure, especially when they’re spending hours on the road. Create a cozy corner with a few soft pillows, a blanket, and their favorite books or toys. Keep their belongings organized with bins or soft organizers so they know exactly where to find their stuff—and where to put it back.
A separate play or reading area helps reduce arguments over space and gives kids a sense of routine. You can also establish a parent zone for planning and a shared area for meals and games.
6. Don’t Skip Safety Checks
Safety is non-negotiable when you’re RVing, especially with young kids in tow. Before you hit the road each day, do a quick walkaround. Check the tires, lights, propane connections, and brake systems. Inside, make sure child seats are secured properly if you’re towing a trailer or driving a motorhome with seatbelts.
Keep your first-aid kit within easy reach and stocked with basics like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and kids’ medication. Also, talk to your kids about what to do in an emergency—whether it’s staying near the RV or how to contact you if they get lost at a stop.
7. Plan Kid-Approved Activities Along the Route
Long drives can quickly wear everyone down. That’s why planning a few short, kid-friendly stops along your route can make a world of difference. In Lake Wales, for example, you’ll find plenty of free or low-cost activities that are perfect for families. Places like Spook Hill offer a quick roadside curiosity, while Lake Kissimmee State Park gives you wide-open trails and wildlife viewing that’ll burn off some energy.
Even small detours can keep the excitement alive. Look for nature trails, local farms, or small-town museums. These don’t have to be major attractions. A simple stop at a scenic overlook or fishing pier can give kids just the right break from riding in the RV. And if you're lucky, it might turn into one of their favorite parts of the trip.
8. Keep the Entertainment Flowing
No matter how many scenic stops you plan, there will be stretches of downtime on the road. That’s where having a solid entertainment plan pays off. Load up devices with downloaded shows, movies, and audiobooks—don’t count on reliable Wi-Fi. Bring coloring books, travel-sized games, sticker sets, and puzzles. Rotating what’s available keeps it fresh and helps avoid screen burnout.
Let kids help choose some of the entertainment before the trip. If they have a say in what they bring, they’re more likely to stay engaged. Just remember, the more options you have, the easier it is to navigate unexpected delays or rainy days at camp.
RVing with kids can be both an adventure and a learning experience—for them and you. With thoughtful planning and a flexible mindset, it becomes less about the challenges and more about the joy of discovery. Whether it’s setting up a comfy corner inside the RV, exploring new places, or laughing over campfire stories, each moment adds up to something bigger: a trip that brings your family closer together. With the right prep and a spirit of adventure, your next RV journey might just be your best vacation yet!