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Hitting the open road with kids can be an amazing adventure. But when travelling in an electric vehicle (EV), it can take some significant planning to keep your trip running smoothly. EVs have some fantastic benefits for family road trips. However, you need to carefully consider range, charging stops, and power consumption to avoid being stranded.
This guide covers key tips to make EV travel with kids more enjoyable. We’ll look at smart packing strategies, keeping kids entertained, using helpful EV apps and tools, climate control and charging approaches, and important safety considerations. Follow these tips to maximise your EV’s potential for awesome family road trips!
For more tips on family road trips, check out our guide to taking a family motorhome trip.
Planning Your Trip
When planning a road trip in an electric vehicle (EV) with kids, the most important thing is understanding your vehicle’s range capabilities and planning charging stops accordingly. Modern EVs can generally go 200-400 km on a single charge, but range varies based on driving conditions. Use online trip planning tools to map out charging stops at intervals within your EV’s estimated range.
Allow extra time for charging stops, and identify backup charging locations in case stations are occupied when you arrive. Choose accommodation with EV charging availability when possible. Pack essentials like food, water, and entertainment to keep kids occupied during charging stops.
Packing Light
Packing light is key to maximising your EV’s range. The heavier the load, the more energy required to move the vehicle. Therefore, it’s an excellent idea to keep your packing as limited as possible.
Use soft-sided lightweight luggage and avoid packing heavy items like unnecessary tools, books, or toys that your kids won’t actually use. Take advantage of your EV’s front trunk for storage, evenly distributing weight between front and rear. Set aside space for any items accumulated during travel. Utilise roof storage with care, as external additions increase drag and energy consumption.
Entertainment and Activities
Kids can often get restless on long drives, so be prepared with entertainment and activities. Pack tablet devices pre-loaded with movies, e-books, and games. Bring headphones so kids can watch or listen without distracting the driver. Provide toys and prepare traditional car games like I Spy. Schedule frequent breaks to get out and run around at parks or rest stops. Pack snacks, healthy meals, and plenty of water to keep kids nourished and hydrated.
Apps and EV Tools
Smartphone apps and EV trip planning tools are invaluable when travelling with kids. There are plenty of apps on the market that allow you to locate charging stations and check availability. EV-specific navigation apps like consider vehicle range and direct you to optimal charging stops. Family road trips can often be very stressful, and these apps can go a long way to making your journey more manageable.
Apps can identify amenities and attractions near charging stations to keep kids entertained during charging stops. Some EVs have built-in apps and tools that provide range estimates, charging status, climate controls, and more. Use these to maximise efficiency and comfort.
Climate Control and Charging
One advantage of EVs is climate control can run without the engine, making maintaining comfortable temperatures easier. In extreme heat or cold, minimise use of climate control to preserve range, dressing kids appropriately and using seat warmers instead of heat.
However, don’t compromise safety or health. At charging stops, use the vehicle’s app to pre-heat or cool the cabin while charging when possible. Have them switch to low-power devices or take breaks from screens to allow devices to charge faster.
Safety considerations
Follow all recommended child restraint practices and ensure car seats are properly installed. Take extra precautions in extreme weather, carrying backup chargers, extra layers of warm clothing, or coolers with ice depending on climate.
Teach kids proper EV charging station etiquette and safety around high-voltage charging equipment. Stay with young children at all times near parking lots and roadways when moving between the vehicle and charging area. Lastly, don’t leave children unattended in the car while charging.
Insurance
When planning a long-distance EV trip, review your insurance policy and make you understand exactly what you are covered for. Confirm that all members of your family who will be driving are listed as covered drivers.
Lastly, note duration limits for hired or borrowed EVs – you may need to extend rental coverage for longer trips. Taking time to understand your insurance details provides peace of mind for the journey ahead. For a simple, easy-to-understand electric vehicle insurance, check out your coverage options with ROLLiN’ Insurance.
With smart planning and preparation, an electric vehicle can be a great option for family road trips. Focus on maximising range, packing efficiently, keeping kids entertained, and utilising helpful technology tools. Stopping more frequently provides chances to stretch legs and explore new places along your journey. Embrace the adventure of EV family travel!