With the holiday season right around the corner, chances are pretty high that you’re planning at least one road trip. Over the mountain and through the hills – to grandmother’s house you go! Sometimes road trips are just a part of life. Before you let traffic and gasoline prices set the tone for your mood on the road, check out our checklist of how to survive your next road trip with pets and/or kids. 1. Make a list. Yes, item number one on our checklist is to make a list. We like the irony, too. But really, starting your planning with a mindfulness session is perhaps the best way to make sure that you don’t forget anything important, and that you don’t over pack. Take a look at the weather, and then pack with purpose. Dream up what sorts of activities and snacks the kids and pets will respond to the best, without making your car a mess, and put them on the list. Making a list will ultimately save you a lot of time and stress. 2. Give yourself time. Start packing your bags about a week in advance. As you do laundry, start putting items aside that you know you want to take with you. This will keep you from stressing out about dirty laundry and the location of certain items when the time crunch sets in. If you can pack everything but essentials early, then it becomes easier to not forget items later. The morning you leave, just pack everything your hands touch; toothbrush, hairbrush, makeup, toiletries, phone charger. Everything else should already be packed. 3. Be smart. In some parts of the country, holiday travel can get dangerous. Higher altitudes may already have snow, and some places may be getting a lot of rain and wind. Temperatures are also starting to drop. Plan for success by planning for failure. By this we mean, be sure to toss a couple of blankets, pillows, emergency first aid kits, and even some spare gas in your car. Being prepared for whatever road trip disaster may come your way will help you recover and stay in control on the road. 4. Bathroom Breaks We’ve all experienced it. Kids or the dog crossing their legs and putting you in a dire situation with an immediate need for a toilet or rest stop break. Usually, this happens in the middle of a traffic jam. Just rewrite the script by planning to take restroom breaks on a schedule. It may slow you down a bit, but it’s likely to keep stress under control and the passengers happy. Plus, taking a walking break is good for your focus and legs, too. 5. Precharge your devices. Especially if your kids use electronic devices, try to have them pre-charged before you leave. This helps the boredom monster stay at bay. 6. Get a good night’s sleep. No matter what time of day you’re planning on hitting the road, make sure that you’re well rested before you head out. If you’re leaving at night to beat traffic, then take the day off of work to sleep. Being well rested keeps you alert, and keeps everyone safe. 7. Slow down. Not just on the roads, but in your mind. We understand that there is a perceived rush to get to the destination, but slowing down and noticing the things around you is a great way to pass time and keep yourself safe. Drive the speed limit, and stop for rest if you need it. Since you’re likely traveling for a gift-giving holiday, why not bring a gift with you! A QALO is a great gift to give since it’s small, lightweight, and affordable. It won’t take up too much space in the car, and it won’t eat up all of your gas money, either. Why not start with our stackable rings collection? Check them out, here.