Tips for "RV-ing" with Kids

Editor's note: I asked the folks at Road Trip Rentals, one of our great partners and major prize sponsor for our 75th Anniversary celebration, to provide some tips about RVing and let you know a little about what they do.

Spending time with your family can be an amazing adventure with a lifelong reward. That being said, some of the best ways to spend much needed togetherness is to take an RV Vacation. However, many people are unsure of what to do before going. If you're an RV newbie or even a pro, here are some tips that might be helpful.

1. Prior Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance – or in this case prevents angry and irritable little ones. Make sure you take into consideration where you're going before you go on your RV-adventure. Create a checklist and include every family members needs. Make sure you are going to age appropriate locations.

2. Adventure and Fun is the name of the Game – Make the trip an adventure from start to finish. Have your children help create an adventure map of all the places you may go on your trip beforehand. Make the whole experience interactive by creating games for your children to play upon arriving at your destination. Try creating superlatives and award them for different categories. You can pick up inexpensive prizes at the dollar stores and oriental trading company. Also, help foster creativity and create your own family camp stories.

3. Stretch out and walk around– Going RV-ing can give you, "the best of both worlds." It's especially a great idea when traveling with infants. Make sure you don't just stay indoors the whole time on your RV vacation. Get out and have a picnic, go for a walk, stretch your legs, etc. Keeping yourself or the kids inside the RV will without a doubt give you a case of "Cabin Fever."

4. Do the Backyard Boogie – Keep in mind camping in the backyard won’t prepare your children for the road trip. It will however get them pumped up and ready to sleep outdoors or in an unfamiliar setting. Start off by introducing a few activities and games that your kids will play on your RV-vacation. It's kind of like dress rehearsal before the big performance.