Last week, we returned from a three-week holiday that we’ll never forget—filled with grandparents, laughter, home-cooked food, sleepy car cuddles, and just a little bit of chaos. Because we didn’t just hop on a plane…
We drove all the way from the UK to Transylvania. Yes—with two small children! 😅
It was long, it was tiring, and it was absolutely worth it.
So if you’ve ever wondered whether a long road trip with young kids is doable (especially one that involves crossing half of Europe), I’ve got some honest thoughts, survival tips, and funny stories for you.
Why We Chose the Car (and Not the Plane)
Flying would’ve been quicker—but not easier. With two car seats, snacks, bags, a buggy, and our need for flexibility, the idea of a road trip started to make more sense.
Plus, we wanted to take things with us we couldn’t bring on a plane—like presents for relatives, our car fridge, and my homemade goodies for the grandparents (they love my pickled peppers!).
There’s something so nostalgic about packing up the car and heading east, through countries and changing landscapes, until the signs start showing familiar Romanian names and the air smells like home.
The Car Ferry: An Adventure in Itself
Our journey started with a 1.5-hour car ferry crossing from Dover to Calais. The boys were so excited—more about the ferry than the actual holiday, I think!
Top Tips for the Ferry:
- Bring snacks and water: The food onboard was okay, but pricey, and queues can be long.
- Let them run around: We found a quiet corner with seats near the window so the boys could watch the seagulls and trucks being loaded.
- Pack a small bag just for the ferry: wet wipes, nappies, entertainment (hello, sticker books!), and spare clothes just in case.
By the time we reached France, everyone was fed, refreshed, and ready to tackle the long stretch of road ahead.
What Helped Us Survive the Drive
The drive from Calais to our little village in Transylvania isn’t short. We split it into manageable days, stopping overnight in family-friendly hotels in Germany and Hungary.
Here’s what made a huge difference for us:
🚗 Our Car Fridge
This was honestly a game-changer. I packed it with sandwiches, boiled eggs, yoghurt, fruit, and bottles of water. It meant fewer stops and better food options (especially for the fussy little one!).
🧺 Snack Station & Activity Bag
I kept a tote bag on the front seat filled with:
- Snacks in small containers
- Colouring books and crayons
- Travel games
- A tablet loaded with downloaded shows (used sparingly!)
💤 Timing Naps Around Driving
We learned quickly to start our driving blocks around naptime or after a meal. When the boys napped, we could cover big distances with peace and quiet.
🧴 Essentials Within Arm’s Reach
I had a little caddy between the front seats with wet wipes, tissues, hand sanitiser, and chargers. Life-saving!
Arriving in Transylvania: The Big Family Hug
After three days of travel, we finally turned into the familiar road leading to my parents’ house. The boys shouted, “Nagymamaaaa!” from their car seats, and I burst into tears (happy ones, of course).
There’s nothing like that first hug from your mum after months apart. And watching your children run barefoot in the same garden you played in as a child… it’s magical.
3 Weeks of Home, Lángos & Village Life
The holiday was everything we needed. Slow mornings with homemade plum jam, long walks to visit relatives, family lunches that turned into dinners, and the boys getting spoiled by every grandparent in sight.
They learned a few more Hungarian and Romanian words, saw chickens up close, and even helped pick herbs from the garden (which I’ll be drying and packing to take back!).
Would We Do It Again?
Absolutely.
It wasn’t always easy—there were meltdowns, traffic jams, and one moment when the baby threw yoghurt all over his car seat—but being able to travel as a family, with freedom and flexibility, was a blessing.
Plus, the memories made were priceless.
Final Thoughts: You Can Do It Too
If you’re thinking about a long car journey with kids—whether it’s to visit family, explore new places, or connect with your roots—don’t be afraid.
Plan, pack wisely, go slow, and leave room for the unexpected. And remember: the journey is part of the adventure.
If you’ve ever done a big road trip with little ones, I’d love to hear how it went! Leave a comment and share your best tip—I’m always learning from fellow mums on the move.
With love from my full heart and empty suitcase,
Krisztina 💛
