Hit the road this football season with our top family road trip tips! From packing essentials to vehicle checks, Hicks Family Subaru has you game-day ready.
Football season is officially underway! Some families look forward to cozy football-filled weekends gathered around the living room TV, cheering on their favorite college and pro teams. But for others, football season is all about packing up and hitting the open road in search of unforgettable gameday memories.
Whether you’re setting off to watch the number one draft pick or cheering on your kiddo at a travel league game, you must make sure your crew and your ride are prepared for the road first.
With the right vehicle, a little planning, and a few essentials, your journey to the big game will surely be a touchdown. From vehicle prep to snacking essentials, we’ve covered you with tips to make your journey smooth, fun, and stress-free. Read on for seven football road trip trips!
Before planning snacks or playlists, consider whether your current vehicle has everything you need for a smooth, comfortable journey. After all, you don’t want to deal with a dogpile in the backseat or risk fumbling your cargo!
For larger families or groups, a spacious and reliable vehicle like a Subaru Outback or Subaru Ascent provides ample cargo space, supportive seating, and all-wheel drive for steady handling, rain or shine.
Need to upgrade your ride? Hicks Family Subaru has an array of fuel-efficient, family-friendly vehicles that are perfect for road trips to cheer on your team. Get an estimate on your trade-in value online now and stop by Hicks Family Subaru to explore models built for comfort and adventure.
When your goal is to be on the sidelines by kickoff, the last thing you want is to spend your time on the side of the road! That’s why ensuring your vehicle is in road-worthy condition is one of the most critical road trip tips for families.
Getting routine vehicle maintenance and an inspection before a family road trip can ensure a smooth journey – and prevent your plans from being benched.
Start with a pre-trip inspection at Hicks Family Subaru to ensure your vehicle is ready to go the distance. Tire, brake, fluid, and battery checks can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns so you can focus on the excitement of game day.
Packing smart can ensure your “team” is fueled up, comfortable, and ready for game day. From snacks to cargo organizers, here’s a handy checklist to get started:
Keep everyone hydrated and satisfied with a mix of healthy and indulgent snacks. Keep your crew hydrated with water bottles, sports drinks, or juices. Ensure you have filling, easy-to-eat options like granola bars, crackers, dried fruit, nuts, applesauce pouches, or protein bars. Don’t want to stop at the drive-thru? Pack a cooler with protein-packed sandwiches, roll-ups, fruit, veggies, and dips.
A comfortable crew is a happy crew. Show your team spirit with blankets and warm gear for tailgates and chilly stadium seats! You’ll want this gear for the game and the ride to and from the stadium – especially if one of the kids decides that their ride would make for a great nap opportunity!
It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so it’s a good idea to keep a basic first aid kit, jumper cables, and a portable charger on hand.
When traveling with your tailgating must-haves, family, and belongings, things can quickly turn chaotic. Keep organized and efficient with cargo organizers – ensuring you’re ready to grab and go once you arrive.
Looking for the perfect fit? Hicks Family Subaru offers cargo organizers designed with your vehicle in mind that keep snacks, essentials, and stadium gear neat and accessible.
Football road trips are all about family fun, but long hours in the car can test even the most patient young travelers. Try these ideas to keep your kids engaged:
Tablets or portable gaming consoles can be lifesavers on long stretches. Subaru models come equipped with USB ports and rear-seat charging options to ensure your crew can stay connected – and you can still charge your phone, too!
Can’t keep your kids entertained on your playlist alone? Try tuning into a family-friendly audiobook that the whole crew can get into. Keep your kids’ minds and hands busy with books, coloring books, or small travel games they can play together in the backseat. Mix things up to keep everyone engaged.
Rest stops are essential on family road trips, especially with kids in tow. Look up rest areas or scenic stops along your route so everyone can stretch and refresh. For families with toddlers, plan stops with accessible bathrooms and changing facilities to make the journey smoother.
Fall weather is unpredictable, so pack gear for all conditions. Bring rain jackets, sunscreen, and hand warmers for cold mornings or drizzly afternoons. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and climate control features offer peace of mind when tackling weather surprises on game-day trips.
You never know what might catch your eye at the stadium. Save space for a few souvenirs in the trunk. Subaru’s versatile seating and cargo solutions make it easy to load up all the extras, from team flags to coolers, with room to spare.
The road to game day is as memorable as the game itself. From comfortable rides to essential gear, Hicks Family Subaru has everything you need to make this football season one for the books.
Drop by for Express Service, schedule a pre-trip service check, or explore our selection of Subaru vehicles that are perfect for any family adventure. Visit Hicks Family Subaru today, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!