“Mum, Mum, Mummmmmmm, I need the toilet.” Or “Are we there yet? Dad, are we there yet? How long’s left?” The vast majority of parents will have experienced these infamous phrases many, many times. Everybody loves a day trip or a mini-break, but the challenge of keeping kids entertained during the journey can be problematic at the best of times, so we’ve rounded up some of the best tips and tricks to keep them occupied.

As always, check out our easy-to-use route planner – It’ll give you the quickest route and it allows you to incorporate breaks into your trip, which is essential when travelling with children. Think; spills, toilet breaks, fresh air (breathing space for adults), ‘hangry’ kids. But most importantly, a break from the Frozen soundtrack that you’ve already listened to 20 times!

We’ve recommended a number of free child friendly apps. Don’t forget to download them before you set off:

• Draw Something – This game involves kids having to draw images for other users to guess and vice versa. It can be played against each other locally or online. An easy to play social game!
• Cut the Rope – This addictive game becomes progressively more challenging. The aim is to feed Om Nom (the little monster) who is hungry for candy. Will keep older children busy for hours.
• Angry Birds – I’m sure you’ve all heard of Angry Birds by now, it’s the biggest mobile game of all time! One of the most well known game apps for a reason. Great fun and simply to play.
• Animals for Kids Forest – It’s an education game with a funny twist, suitable for children of all ages.
• We also recommend the ‘Toca Boca’ series of games (particularly Hair Salon 2), these silly games will ensure lots of giggling in the back of the car.

Alternatively, if you want to divert your kids’ eyes away from a screen for a change, pop into Moto WHSmith and shop their huge range of children’s books.

If you’re looking for something more engaging (or you just want to get in on the fun), there’s the old fashion favourites:

• I Spy – A classic game! Pick something in sight and declare “I Spy with my little eye something beginning with…”, give the first letter of the object. Everyone then has to try and workout what the object is.
• Spot the Car – Mum/Dad shouts out a type of car or colour, the kids then scramble about trying to be the first one to spot it.
• 20 Questions – There are a few variations. Choose a person, place or thing. The others then ask 20 questions, if the guesser gets it right in twenty questions or less, they win!
• Sing Along – Just make sure it’s something that everyone can sing along to!

If you have a pen and paper, try Noughts and Crosses or Hangman. Things might get a little competitive among kids (and adults) though.

We’d also suggest packing a lunch, but if you’re short on time you can always grab something at your nearest Moto. We have a selection of nationwide brands that the kids will love. If you download our app you’ll receive discount at the Eat & Drink Co., Costa Coffee and Burger King.

Other essentials:                               

• Wet wipes – for those spillages (Remember to just relax and breathe, it’s just a spill).
• Water – driving can be thirsty work.
• A phone charger – whether it’s a portable one or a car plugin one, it’ll keep those tablets and other devices fully charged for your journey.

Thanks for reading, we hope you enjoy your trip!