Family car trips can be some of your most memorable experiences, but they can also be challenging without the right supplies. It’s not always easy to accommodate the varying needs of babies, toddlers, tweens, and teens as you travel together so that the trip is enjoyed and not just survived!
At Mike White Ford, we love road trips, especially here in North Idaho. There is driving to the woods for hunting in the fall, heading north or east to the mountains for skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling in winter, fishing in the lakes and rivers in the spring, and towing a boat or a trailer to go boating, hiking, and camping in the summer. When you love road trips as much as we do, whether an hour’s drive or half a day’s drive, you want to ensure you equip your car for the journey.
For long road trips, especially, you want to ensure you have food, entertainment, and some housekeeping supplies so that your trip is harmonious and trouble-free. So whether it’s regular weekly trips to baseball practice or embarking on a long journey to visit relatives for a holiday, outfitting your Ford vehicle with family-friendly accessories can make all the difference. Here are eight accessories that can enhance your family driving experience:
1. Car Seat Protectors (For Infants and Young Children)
Car seat protectors are a must-have for families with young children. These mats go under the car seat to protect your vehicle’s upholstery from spills, crumbs, and indentations caused by heavy car seats. Many protectors come with pockets for storing toys, bottles, and snacks, making them a practical addition to any family car. They keep the items your child needs or wants within instant reach.
2. Rear Seat Entertainment System (For All Ages)
Keeping children entertained on long road trips can be challenging. A rear-seat entertainment system can transform your Ford into a mobile theater. With options ranging from built-in screens to portable DVD players, these systems allow kids to watch movies, play games, and even connect to streaming services. Before you set off, take a little time to assemble a playlist and select some movies and games that will appeal to everyone.
3. Travel Organizers (For Toddlers to Teens)
Keeping a car organized with kids in tow can seem impossible, but travel organizers make it manageable. Seat-back and center console organizers provide ample space for toys, travel games, books, gadgets, and snacks. These organizers keep everything within reach and help maintain a tidy vehicle. It sure beats stopping the car to access the cargo area or rummaging around assorted boxes looking for what you want.
4. Portable Cooler and Warmer (For All Ages)
A portable cooler and warmer that plugs into the vehicle’s power outlet is perfect for keeping drinks and snacks at the ideal temperature during long trips. Whether you need to warm up some milk or formula for an infant or keep some drinks and fresh fruit cold for the teens, this accessory ensures everyone’s refreshment needs are met.
5. Sun Shades (For Infants and Young Children)
Protecting your little ones from the sun’s harsh rays is crucial, especially during summer. Sun shades for the rear windows can keep the car cooler and protect children from UV rays. They are easy to install, remove, and store, and they can make a significant difference in comfort when driving on a hot summer day.
6. Child Safety Mirror (For Infants)
A child safety mirror allows you to check on your rear-facing infant without turning around. These mirrors attach to the rear headrest, giving you a clear view of your baby from the driver’s seat, ensuring peace of mind and safety.
7. USB Charging Ports and Adapters (For Older Children and Teens)
In a world filled with devices that keep you connected with family, work, and friends, keeping phones and pads charged is essential, especially when you may be in the vehicle for hours or relying on a phone for navigation. Additional USB charging ports and adapters ensure everyone can keep their phones, tablets, and other gadgets powered throughout the trip. These chargers can be installed in the front and back seats for easy access.
8. Portable Vacuum Cleaner (For All Ages)
Kids can be messy, and a portable vacuum cleaner helps keep your car clean on the go. These compact devices are lightweight, portable, rechargeable, and powerful enough to handle crumbs, dirt, sand, and other debris, helping you maintain a clean vehicle.
Outfitting your Ford vehicle with any family-friendly accessories can significantly enhance your driving experience, making trips more enjoyable for everyone, from daily commutes to extended drives. From keeping the car clean and organized to ensuring your children are entertained, fed, and comfortable, these accessories cater to all age groups, providing a pleasant journey for the entire family.
To order Ford accessories or to find the perfect vehicle for your next road trip, contact or visit Mike White Ford, with showrooms in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint. We’ll make sure your next road trip is a pleasant experience for the whole family.