What the Tech: Tech for traveling with kids on a road trip
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Whoever said, “Half the fun is just getting there,” never had kids in the backseat on a road trip.
Depending on their age, you might be tempted to just let them endlessly scroll TikTok or watch YouTube videos.
But you can keep them occupied by turning off the cellular signal on their phones and giving them some offline options.
There are plenty of offline entertainment choices. The app stores are filled with educational applications for kids of all ages for iPhone, Android devices, and Kindle Fire tablets.
If that doesn’t fly with them you can a digital coloring book on their device.
Our favorite is April Coloring because it requires you to color in the spaces with your finger or a stylus.
For most other apps, you tap to fill in with color. It’s free for a limited number of pages.
A monthly subscription is $10. It’s relaxing for adults too.
To keep them offline while watching movies and shows, Netflix and Amazon Prime allow you to videos ahead of time to prevent spotty internet service from interrupting the shows.
Borrow a few library books using the Libby app. It connects to your local public library giving you thousands of choices. “Diary of a Wimpy Kid”, “Clementine”, “Nancy Drew” and novels for grown-ups can be checked out for two weeks.
Don’t hit the road without Gas Buddy. The free app finds the best gas prices wherever you’re traveling and also gives some information on the stations from other drivers.
Find out if the bathrooms stay clean and if food is available before you pull into the pumps.
If everyone is on a device you’ll need chargers. Don’t rely on the USB outlets in the car.
They’re not meant for charging and will be slow. Take along portable batteries or pick up a charger that connects to the car’s cigarette lighter.
Phones will charge faster, keeping them, and the person behind the wheel, happy. And maybe the most important tech for kids in the backseat? earbuds or headphones.
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