Every family road trip starts with good intentions: snacks packed, playlists saved, and a promise from the back seat not to ask “are we there yet?” for at least the first hour. But long stretches on the road can wear out drivers and passengers alike.

We have unpacked the biggest pain points of travelling with family and put together four tried and tested tips – courtesy of Road Lodges – to help you get there with everyone still smiling.

Short answer: Break up the journey into overnight stops, pack light with the 5-4-3-2-1 method, keep meals simple and regular, and build in time for spontaneous detours.

Sometimes the smallest wildlife sightings leave the biggest impression, like this cute little mongoose / meerkat seen at Road Lodge Kimberley.

1. Break up the journey

Splitting up a long drive into manageable stages is one of the simplest ways to keep everyone comfortable, and it's safer too. An overnight stop gives the whole family a chance to stretch their legs, sleep well, and start the next leg of the journey refreshed.

With 23 Road Lodges across South Africa, there is an affordable stopover waiting close to your route. Many Road Lodge rooms comfortably accommodate families with children, featuring a sleeper couch that is ideal for younger guests.

We’ve got hotels in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Potchefstroom, Rustenburg, Durban, Umhlanga Ridge, Richards Bay, Pietermaritzburg, Cape Town, Mbombela, Bloemfontein, Kimberley, Gqeberha, and East London. If you’re flying in and renting a car, you’ll find convenient Road Lodges close to the following airports too: OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport, Bram Fischer International Airport in Bloemfontein, and Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport in Durban.

Check in, take a shower, cool off in the pool, and enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant before an early night. Free WiFi and parking are included, and the team on duty will get you settled in quickly. In the morning, start the day with a light buffet breakfast, or order a breakfast box the night before to eat in the car during an early start. The in-restaurant coffee machines mean you won't leave without your caffeine fix either.

Not stopping over? Road Lodges also welcome day visitors who need a break, a meal, and to top up their water bottles.

2. Pack smarter

When you're travelling by car, it's tempting to pack heavy since the boot feels like “free” space. But overpacking makes it harder to load and unload at every stop, and easier to lose track of items along the way.

Try the 5-4-3-2-1 packing formula for clothing, recommended by Good Housekeeping magazine:

• 5 tops that all work with your bottoms
• 4 bottoms – a mix of pants, shorts and skirts
• 3 pairs of shoes: comfortable walking shoes, sandals, and one smarter option
• 2 layers: a warm jacket plus a jersey or hoodie
• 1 set of accessories: sunglasses, jewellery, scarf, belt, hat or bag
• Add pyjamas, underwear, socks, vests and swimwear as needed

3. Keep meals simple

It's tempting to load up on sugary treats for the drive, but sugar highs and crashes in a confined car lead to irritability fast. Rather stop for relaxed, proper meals at regular intervals, and pack snacks the whole family enjoys for in between – think protein bars, fruit, nuts, dried fruit, biltong, sandwiches, samoosas or small pies. These keep everyone fuller for longer and moods steadier. Swap fizzy drinks for water in reusable bottles.

4. Leave room for spontaneity

Exploring along the way often makes a road trip more memorable than the destination itself, even if that's a hard sell to anyone reluctant to stop for even a bathroom break. An interesting farm stall, local market, scenic viewpoint, unexpected playground, or great coffee shop can turn a routine drive into an adventure.

Rather than rushing through, slow down and enjoy the small milestones along the way instead of racing towards the one big moment at the end.

Family road trips were never about perfection – they're about shared playlists, unplanned detours, snack stops, laughter and the memories made in between. With a little planning, and a comfortable Road Lodge to rest at along the way, the journey can be just as memorable as the destination.

Ready to plan your next family road trip? Find your nearest Road Lodge and book direct for the best rates. Also, check out our regular special offers.

Family fun promo

Road Lodges are already known for offering exceptional value for money, making them a smart choice for families looking for comfortable, affordable accommodation while travelling. If you're looking to experience one of our other brands within the City Lodge Hotels group, we also have some great family promotions currently available at selected Courtyard Hotels, City Lodge Hotels and Town Lodges.

When you book a stay at any of our Courtyard Hotels, City Lodge Hotels, or Town Lodges, you’ll enjoy:

• 30% off your second room when it’s for the kids
• Kids stay FREE when your booking includes a room with a sleeper sofa
• Kids under 16 eat breakfast FREE when dining with their parents – because pancakes taste even better when they’re on the house

City Lodge Hotel Umhlanga Ridge

Why families choose Road Lodges

As part of the City Lodge Hotels group, Road Lodges are built around what families actually need:

• Plenty of parking
• Easy 24-hour check-in
• Comfortable beds
• Rooms that sleep up to three people (child on a sleeper sofa)
• Free, reliable WiFi
• Good food and drink options
• Attentive, friendly service
• Convenient locations along major routes
• Great value for money

Whether it’s a winter getaway, long weekend, or just some well-deserved family time, this is your chance to relax and reconnect.

Life is hard. Check into easy.