10 realistic tips for Thanksgiving travel with kids (that actually work)

10 realistic tips to make Thanksgiving travel with kids easier

Ground Picture/ Shutterstock

Here's the reality: we will not make it on time.

By Robin Eisenbrei Updated Oct. 14, 2025

Table of Contents

We’ve all been there. We’re so excited to be traveling, maybe having some time with our thoughts while we (or our partner) are driving, only to hear the words, “Mom, I have to pee!” It’s easy to forget that those diaperless times can be tough when you’re on the road. So, what do we do? We stop. My husband or I take them to the bathroom so that we can try to make it to Thanksgiving dinner on time.

Here’s the reality: we will not make it on time. We don’t need to set unrealistic expectations for our kids or ourselves. Here are some realistic expectations that can help make the journey easier for everyone.

Realistic Thanksgiving travel tips for parents

1. Use a bin

Set everything out in a bin the night before you leave. That way you can grab the bin and go in the morning. (If you forget something, that’s okay; blame it on the mom brain!)

2. Accept that your child might need a break

Know your children are going to need to get up, move around, go to the bathroom, etc. It happens! Long car rides are not easy for anyone—no matter what age you are.

3. Do NOT give the host a set time

You don’t know when you’ll be there. Children are unpredictable. This also alleviates some of the anxiety of trying to arrive at the time you discussed. The best answer to give is, “We will be there, but we can’t give you a time.” If they need a ballpark time, give yourself an extra hour so that you’re not rushing and have a little extra time.

4. Don’t rush

Safety is so important, especially with those little ones. Choose to be safe over being on time.

5. Kids will be kids

Your children could get fussy or cry over something going on in the back and that’s OK. Just know that it shall pass. Give them some items they can play with, color with and be content with for as long as possible.

For every problem, there is a solution. Letting go of high expectations will make your drive a little more bearable.

6. Pack snacks like your sanity depends on it

No one wants to be trapped in traffic during Thanksgiving travel with hangry kids in the backseat. Pack a mix of favorites—crackers, fruit, maybe even a few “special treats” reserved just for the car. When in doubt, snacks solve 90% of travel meltdowns.

7. Build in buffer time (and then some)

Add at least an extra 30 minutes to every part of your trip. Kids will need last-minute bathroom breaks, forgotten stuffed animals will need rescuing, and traffic on Thanksgiving travel days always moves at its own pace. Padding your timeline means you’ll stress less when plans go sideways.

8. Keep small surprises handy

Wrap up a few inexpensive toys or books and pull one out every hour or two. It keeps things fresh and gives your kids something to look forward to. Think of it as your secret weapon for long stretches of road or delayed flights.

9. Embrace tech (without guilt)

If there was ever a day to hand over the tablet, it’s during Thanksgiving travel. Download a few kid-friendly movies or shows ahead of time so you’re not relying on spotty Wi-Fi. Screens can buy you those golden minutes of quiet that make all the difference.

10. Don’t forget to reset your own expectations

The drive won’t be peaceful. The kids will get loud. You might not make every stop you planned. That’s okay. Thanksgiving travel with kids isn’t about perfection—it’s about getting there safely, together, and maybe even laughing a little along the way.

Remember what really matters

Thanksgiving travel isn’t about sticking to a schedule—it’s about showing up. Whether you’re five minutes late or two hours behind, your kids won’t remember the delay. They’ll remember the car karaoke, the snack breaks, and how you made the trip feel like an adventure.

Happy travels!

A version of this post was published on November 22, 2023. It has been updated.

This story is a part of The Motherly Collective contributor network where we showcase the stories, experiences and advice from brands, writers and experts who want to share their perspective with our community. We believe that there is no single story of motherhood, and that every mother's journey is unique. By amplifying each mother's experience and offering expert-driven content, we can support, inform and inspire each other on this incredible journey. If you're interested in contributing to The Motherly Collective please click here.

Categories:

Thanksgiving