Our Vehicle Setup for Road Trips with Kids
One of our biggest challenges when traveling—especially on family road trips with kids—is packing all the things. I will be the first to admit I am an overpacker, but over the years we have learned that there are certain must-haves that truly make road trips with little ones easier and far more enjoyable.
Most of our trips include me, Michael, Frankie, my parents, and oftentimes our dog. That is luggage for five people, plus everything a baby or toddler needs. Choosing the right vehicle and setting it up well has made all the difference.
Choosing the Right SUV for Family Road Trips
When we picked out our SUV seven years ago, we knew we wanted something that maximized trunk space while still offering a comfortable third row. That turned out to be a much bigger challenge than we expected. Many third-row seats were incredibly cramped and not realistic for anything longer than a short drive, let alone an eight-plus-hour road trip.
We eventually settled on a Chevy Traverse, and it has been a great fit for our family. On a normal day, we keep the third row down, which gives us plenty of room for a stroller, groceries, and everyday errands. When we do need the third row, it is actually comfortable enough for adults to sit for longer trips.
Keeping the Trunk Organized for Road Trips
Early on, we added a cargo net across the back of the SUV to prevent items like groceries from rolling out when you open the trunk. We also use a few back-of-the-car organizers to corral groceries and other loose items, which keeps everything much more manageable.
Adding Extra Storage for Long Road Trips
When we planned our first big trip as a new family, we knew we would need more space. We purchased cross rails for the Traverse, which are very easy to install, and then added a roof rack basket that attaches to the rails. The basket came with a waterproof storage bag, and it has been a game changer.
On average, we can fit at least four duffel bags plus smaller odds and ends in the roof bag. This extra storage allows us to keep the inside of the car more comfortable while still bringing everything we need.
For our first trip with four adults, a nine-month-old, and our small dog, we were able to pack:
- Luggage for five people (plus a bag for the dog)
- Pack and play
- Bounce chair
- Christmas presents
- Full-sized ice chest with premade food
- Small heater
- Keurig
- Large kennel for the dog
- Bags with snacks and premade food
- Bags with car entertainment
- Dog bed
- A week’s worth of diapers
We did not have room for the stroller, but we knew we would not really need it for that trip. The car was truly filled to the brim, as you can probably tell from the photo above. At the time, I am sure everyone thought we were wildly overpacked. However, when we ended up snowed in at our cabin with no power for 24 hours, we were incredibly thankful to have all of those supplies. (I’ll be sharing a full recap of this trip soon, including how we handled being snowed in with a baby.)
Tips for Using a Roof Storage Bag on Road Trips
When packing the waterproof roof bag, we always start by laying everything out and figuring out how it will fit while the bag is still on the ground. Once packed, we use ratcheting straps to securely attach the bag to the basket.
After our first trip, we quickly realized we needed an easier way to access the roof bag. We added steps that attach to the car to make loading and unloading much simpler. A quick note of caution: be mindful of the amount of weight you put on them, as too much pressure can cause a small dent inside the door frame. Thankfully, it is not visible, but it is worth mentioning.
Road Trip Essentials for Traveling with a Toddler
As Frankie got older, we added a few more car necessities. Once we started potty training, we purchased the OXO travel potty seat. This has easily become one of our favorite road trip items. It works as a standalone potty with disposable bags for on-the-go stops, which is ideal when you are traveling with a newly potty-trained toddler. It can also be used at a hotel or cabin as a potty seat, making it much more comfortable and familiar for little ones.
We also bring a foldable step stool so Frankie can reach the sink to wash her hands and climb up onto the potty independently.
For our more recent trips, we added a back-of-the-seat organizer to store toddler toys, wipes, and other essentials. I also purchased a storage box that fits between the captain’s chairs. It is perfect for holding toys, and it is sturdy enough that Frankie can use it as a step stool to climb into her car seat.
Must-Haves at a Glance
Below is a quick-reference list of all the items we mentioned above. These are the things that have truly made our road trips smoother, more organized, and far less stressful. I have linked each item so you can easily find what works best for your family.
- Chevrolet Traverse – Our go-to family SUV with generous cargo space and a comfortable third row.
- Roof rack cross rails – Easy to install and essential for adding extra storage on long trips.
- Roof rack basket + waterproof storage bag + ratcheting straps – Perfect for hauling duffel bags and bulky items while keeping everything dry and secure.
- Steps to reach the roof rack – A huge help for safely loading and unloading the roof bag.
- Foldable potty seat with disposable bags – Great for on-the-go potty breaks and can also be used at a hotel or cabin as a toddler potty seat.
- Foldable step stool – Encourages toddler independence by helping little ones reach the sink and climb onto the potty.
- In-between car seats storage organizer – Ideal for toys and essentials, and sturdy enough to double as a step for climbing into the car seat.
- Back-of-the-seat car organizer – Keeps toys, wipes, snacks, and other necessities within easy reach.
- Cargo net for the trunk – Prevents groceries and loose items from rolling out when you open the back hatch.
This setup has helped us stay organized and prepared for everything from quick rest stops to unexpected travel surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions About Road Trips with Kids
What is the best family vehicle for road trips?
A midsize or large SUV with a usable third row and flexible cargo space, like the Chevy Traverse, makes long road trips with kids far more comfortable.
Is a roof rack worth it for family travel?
Yes. A roof rack with a waterproof storage bag adds valuable space for luggage and bulky items, especially when traveling with babies or toddlers.
What are must-haves for road trips with toddlers?
Travel potty solutions, seat-back organizers, snacks, and easy-access storage are key for smoother and less stressful drives.