“Are we there yet?” “I have to go to the bathroom.” “I’m hungry.” We’ve all heard the typical phrases coming from the back seat — the seemingly desperate cries to escape the confines of the car or airplane seat. It’s called the family trip and although it can be one of your family’s most memorable and fun events, it can also be stressful for all involved.

Avoiding Road Rage

Timing

If you want your kids to sleep through much of the trip, consider leaving before sunrise or after dark. This strategy will cut into your sleep but will make for a faster and more peaceful trip. When the kids are awake, avoid driving for long stretches without a break. You may get there quicker, but you’ll have some seriously unhappy campers. When planning your itinerary, keep in mind that estimated distances will be considerably longer with a baby (or children) on board.

Tech Power

For a quiet road trip, technology is your best bet. If you don’t own a portable DVD player, consider renting one. Handheld gaming devices, headsets and smart phones also keep kids engrossed. If your children are constantly glued to their devices, however, they could miss the best part of a road trip: the scenery. At least when approaching major vistas, ask for an intermission.

Retro Fun

The most important part of a road trip is quality time together as a family. For more interaction, try time-honored games like 20 Questions, I Spy, Counting Cows, The License Plate Game, or Slug Bug.

Make It Cozy

Encourage calm by giving each child a pillow and a blanket. These can double as defensive barriers, should any sibling turf wars arise.

Snack Attack

Sugary snacks and fast food may initially appease kids. But if you want to save money—and your sanity—pack healthy snacks instead. Foods that travel well include apple slices, peanut butter sandwiches, raisins, pretzels, granola bars and saltine crackers (good for car sickness). Tote along “sippy” cups with juice and bottles of water. (Avoid soda, which will amp the kids up and result in more bathroom breaks.)

The “Gimme Goblin”

Vacations can awaken greed in children; every gas station and tourist trap elicits pleas for more stuff. Consider giving older kids a small daily “travel allowance.” If they beg for roadside treats or souvenirs, simply direct them to their own resources; this teaches budgeting and self-control.

Keep It Clean

Minimize debris with toys like magnetic board games, mess-free markers, and magnetic drawing boards. Bring trash bags, wet wipes, and freezer bags along for easy cleanup.

Incentivize

If your budget allows, buy a few new toys and hide them until the trip. They don’t have to be expensive; novelty is powerful. For extra oomph, wrap the gifts and reward good behavior by distributing them at major mile markers.

In-Flight Entertainment

Knowledge is Power

If you haven’t flown in a while, read up on the latest Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules. Remember that everyone — including babies — must go through security. You can carry on medications, baby formula, baby food, breast milk, and juice, as long as they do not exceed 3.4 ounces. Research the airline’s policies (e.g., whether a child safety seat is provided, whether child discounts are available, etc.) Children under two may be able to fly free in your lap (but sometimes that extra ticket is worth it!)

Practice Makes Perfect

Kids love to “play school.” Why not “play airport” too? Doing so will help your children know what to expect. Stage a security gate at your house, including an improvised metal detector. Have your kids remove their shoes, jacket, and backpack and place them in a plastic tub to slide through. You can even create a play passport and have the kids “travel” to exotic destinations. Use this as an opportunity to teach them about other countries and cultures.

Dress for Less Stress

For a fast track through security, have everyone wear slide-on shoes. Dress the kids in vibrant colors so it’s easier to track them. Have your children wear layers to cope with temperature fluctuations. If your child is prone to motion sickness, stash an extra outfit in your carry-on. Have each child wear a small backpack with games and snacks. This will make your child feel grown up and you’ll literally shift some weight off your shoulders.

Getting on Board

Airlines usually offer an early boarding option for those with small children. But the longer your kids are in a tiny, enclosed space, the greater the odds of a tantrum. So it may be best to decline this privilege. If you are traveling with another adult, divide and conquer: have one person watch the kids in the boarding area while the other loads luggage.

Happy Fliers and Pacifiers

For infants, pack an extra pacifier in case one gets lost. For older kids, bring gum along to help keep ears from getting clogged.

Reverting to the Dark Ages

Remember your child won’t be able to use all of his/her electronic devices during the entire flight. Pack some “old fashioned” entertainment (e.g., Mad Libs, a deck of cards, or books).

Traveling with children can be chaotic, but try to focus on your spouse and your children. Time will help erase memories of the more stressful moments. But the positive experiences from your vacation will not be forgotten.