Road Tripping Abroad with a Toddler: Your Essential Guide
- andrew
- Apr 16
- 7 min read
Road trips are probably our favourite way to explore a country and having a child was not going to change that! Whilst going on a road trip with a toddler has its challenges you are rewarded with stunning scenery, the freedom to explore off the beaten track and lasting family memories. This guide provides essential tips and gear recommendations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable international road trip with your little one!
Car Hire: Save Money and Reduce Hidden Costs
At first glance renting a car abroad can be expensive, however here is what I've learned to avoid hidden costs and hassles:
Spacious Boot: A spacious boot is essential for accommodating your pram, suitcases, bags, and any souvenirs or groceries you might acquire. Consider a car with at least 400 litres of boot space however it will depend on how much you intend on bringing. Thinking about this in advance will prevent the frustration of arriving and realising your luggage doesn't fit meaning you need an expensive upgrade!
Deposit Requirements: Most rental companies require a credit card (usually VISA or Mastercard) for the deposit. I once learned this the hard way when my Amex wasn't accepted, forcing me to buy the expensive full coverage insurance. Double-check accepted cards before you arrive to avoid surprises!
Insurance Overcharges: Rental companies often push their own full coverage insurance, but it's usually much pricier than what you can find online. I would recommend choosing their basic insurance then separately purchasing car hire excess insurance which will give you peace of mind if anything does happen to your car rental. I highly recommend Reduce My Excess - it's quick & easy to book and they have saved us thousands over the years!
Hidden Clauses: Always read the fine print! Look out for clauses about cleaning fees, mileage restrictions, fuel tank filling or specific return requirements. For example, in Marrakech, we encountered a clause requiring the car to be returned "car wash clean," otherwise a hefty fee would be incurred! A little time spent reading can save you a lot of hassle (and money) later.
Photo Evidence: During the inspection, always take thorough photos on your phone. This will be your evidence to challenge any claims of damage during drop-off. If picking up your car at night, use a torch to illuminate the car and spot any hidden scratches.
Reputable Car Hire Companies: Having rented and driven cars all around the world there is nothing worse than a shoddy car company as they will really do their best to make your life difficult. Hidden clauses, overcharging and poor quality cars are some of the things which can really get your holiday off to the wrong start. I always do my research on local companies to see what the user reviews are - however this can take some time so if you want to skip that then choose a reputable companies such as Hertz which often are based in the airport itself so there's no need for a transfer off site.
Alternative Hire Methods: Consider alternative car hire options, for example, in countries such as Albania, Croatia and Greece, you can use Rentout which is about 30% cheaper than traditional hire companies as you hire cars directly from locals.
Making your road trip as smooth as possible
1. Safety and Comfort: Creating a Happy Car Environment
Car Seat: A properly fitted car seat is the most important safety item. While rental companies offer car seats, they are expensive (and subject to unexpected price hiking) and may not be the cleanest or most reliable option. Bringing your own lightweight, foldable car seat is often the best solution, especially for international travel. Look for a car seat that meets safety standards in your destination country and consider features like ISOFIX compatibility and a travel-friendly design, I'd recommend the foldable Maxi-Cosi Nomad which is 4kg and easy to install using the cars seat belt.
Window Shades: Protecting your little one from the sun is key for a comfortable ride. Window shades can prevent overheating and keep the glare out of their eyes, which can be especially helpful during naptime. This window shade has UV protection and a fun turtle design.
2. Driving Essentials: My Must-Have Road Trip Gear
Phone Holder: A reliable phone holder is essential for hands-free navigation. Even if your rental car has a built-in system, it's always good to have a backup (this was particularly handy in Salta, Argentina where our car didn't have a built in system). Don't forget a USB cable and cigarette lighter USB adapter!
Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto Adapter: These adapters create a seamless connection for music, podcasts, and navigation which makes the drive so much more enjoyable. I've tried a few and found this Wireless Car Adapter to be the most reliable.
E-sim: These have been revolutionary for us! You buy the plan and download the e-Sim before departure meaning you can continue using data abroad meaning so you always get up-to-date traffic information. We use Sim Local which has been easy, quick and reliable - for your 5% discount use the code "TODDLER" at checkout.
Olbas Oil: It's an odd one but this is my personal must-have for staying alert on long drives - it smells nice and sniffing this helps keep me sharp!
3. Entertainment: Keeping Toddler Boredom at Bay
Maximise Naptime: Planning your drives around naptime is the easiest way to get some quiet time. Remember to put on a fresh nappy to minimise leaks and have those window shades ready to reduce glare.
Song & Play: Engage your little one with songs, stories, and games and turn the journey into an adventure by pointing out interesting sights along the way.
Music & Audiobooks: Create a playlist of your toddler's favourite songs and some calming music for when things get a little overwhelming. Audiobooks are also a great way to entertain them and spark their imagination.
Toys: Pack a selection of small, travel-friendly toys that will keep your little one entertained. I'd recommend these Keep Em Quiet activity bags (use the code "VIP" for 10% off) and you can read here for a list of our top toys to bring on planes as these work well in the car too!
Tablet/Phone: We try and minimise screen time and this is often a last resort but there is no escaping that a tablet/phone loaded with downloaded movies, shows, and educational apps can be a lifesaver for longer stretches. Miss Rachel is now on Netflix, which makes life so much easier - don't forget to bring toddler headphones!
4. Comfort and Care: Preparing for Every Need
Snacks & Drinks: Snacks are essential for preventing hunger meltdowns! Have plenty on hand, but be mindful of mess. We tend to avoid pouches in the car and opt for raisins, biscuits, and crisps, which are generally easier to clean as even if it gets messy you can simply wipe away the crumbs.
Milk: If you're still breastfeeding, consider using a portable breast pump. When our daughter was younger, this was a must-have for long car journeys. We tried a few, and Minna found the Elvie to be the most comfortable and effective.
First-Aid Kit: Pack a small first-aid kit with essentials like paracetamol, plasters, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications.
5. Tips for a Smooth Road Trip
Frequent Stops: Plan for regular breaks every couple of hours to let your little one stretch their legs and burn off some energy. We try to find small towns between destinations and stop at a park for my daughter to play.
Smart Packing: Keep your essentials nearby in a bag (snacks, toys, wipes, nappies). There have been too many times we've had to pull over to get snacks out of the boot of the car!
Be Flexible: Things don't always go according to plan, especially when traveling with toddlers. Be prepared to adjust your schedule and expectations as needed.
Park outside Tourist Destinations: When possible, park outside of busy tourist areas. For example, in Marrakech, parking outside the medina is often easier than navigating the narrow, crowded streets within the medina.
Assess Driving Conditions: If we're not picking up the car immediately, I like to use the time to assess the driving conditions I'll be expecting. Though be warned, you may not always like what you see... For example, in Nairobi, I saw several cars drive the wrong way down a 4-lane road the day before picking up our rental car!
Your Essential Road Trip Packing List
Planning a road trip with a toddler can feel overwhelming, but a well-organised packing list can make all the difference. To help you prepare for your adventure, we've created a comprehensive printable packing list that covers all the essentials, from car safety items and entertainment to snacks, comfort items, and first-aid supplies. This list will ensure you don't forget anything important and make packing a breeze!
Download it below:
Conclusion: you’re ready to hit the road!
International road trips with toddlers can be incredibly rewarding experiences. They offer the flexibility to explore at your own pace, discover hidden gems, and create unforgettable family memories. While it requires some extra planning and preparation, the payoff is immense. By following the tips and advice in this guide, and using our handy packing list, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the challenges and embrace the joys of a road trip adventure with your little one. Now it's time to buckle up, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!
If you want inspiration on where to go on your next road trip check out our itineraries for road trips in Romania, Albania, Croatia & Montenegro and Morocco
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