Family life can be chaotic. Between school runs and day trips, it often feels like you spend more time in your family vehicle than you do in your own home. If this is the case, kitting your vehicle out with essential items is necessary to maintain order and harmony during car rides. After all, an emergency supply of snacks may be the only thing between you and an ear-splitting toddler meltdown. Here are some must-have everyday items to keep in your family car.
Entertainment
Keeping your kids entertained on long journeys can be tricky. However, you can keep the little ones occupied by keeping an emergency entertainment pack in the trunk of your car. Include items like books, colouring crayons, sensory toys and puzzles to help pass the time. You can also purchase over-the-seat entertainment organisers, with compartments for all of your kids’ belongings arranged neatly for easy access and minimal clutter.
First Aid
Accidents can happen anywhere, so keep your family safe by carrying a first aid kit in your car’s glove compartment for quick access whenever needed. You can purchase a fully-stocked first aid kit from your local pharmacy or department store. However, you can compile your own according to your family’s needs. First aid kit essentials generally include plasters, gauze dressings, triangular and rolled bandages, safety pins, sterile gloves, antiseptic wipes and tweezers.
Spare Tyre
In the unfortunate event of a flat tyre, you will want to get back on the road as quickly as possible, particularly if you have your family in tow. Knowing how to change a flat tyre is crucial if you want to avoid waiting (and paying) for a recovery service. You must also ensure you carry your spare tyre at all times, which is generally located underneath your vehicle, directly below the cargo area.
Wipes, Tissues And Hand Gel
Young children are invariably messy. Every family gets through their fair share of baby wipes, and being caught short without any can be a nightmare. Keep your little ones clean, dry and comfortable by stowing a good supply of wipes, tissues and hand gel to combat sticky fingers and runny noses. This will also be helpful when you need to eat on the go, so you can clean up and resume your journey with minimal mess.
Booster Seat
A good-quality booster seat is crucial for the safety of your young children. Fortunately, you won’t need to look far to find an excellent booster seat in Singapore, ideal for urban families. When selecting a seat, look for features such as easily adjustable headrests and ISOfix fitting points. Your child’s booster seat should also be made from high-quality, breathable materials to help regulate their temperature and keep them comfortable on long journeys.
Changing Bag
Being out and about with a baby or toddler almost always involves carrying a changing bag. However, if you’re caught short without your trusty supplies, things can quickly go from bad to worse. Even if you’re running a quick errand and you think there is little need to grab the changing bag, keeping a spare in your car can be a lifesaver. Include diapers, wipes, creams, extra clothes and anything else you might need in an emergency situation. Here is some more advice to help you pack your changing bag like a pro.
Snacks
Hungry babies and toddlers can be difficult to soothe. Once your child has worked themselves up, de-escalating the situation can be a tricky task, particularly if you’re mid-journey. Prevention is the best method, so keep your little ones satisfied by offering them plenty of healthy snacks between meals. Stash a supply of non-perishable snacks, such as dried fruit and crackers, in your car’s glove compartment so your kids always have something to tide them over.
Charging Cable
There is no denying that in today’s modern climate, we rely heavily on our devices. You likely use your smartphone for numerous tasks whilst on the road with your family, such as satellite navigation, entertainment and communication. If you’ve ever had your device run out of battery whilst away from home, you’ll be familiar with the feelings of dread and panic once your window to the world has been cut off. Ensure your smartphone can function at full capacity by keeping an emergency charging cable or power bank in your car.
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