Would you drive this far in one day or break up the miles by getting a motel?

Question

I have a trip to make and it's about 220 miles one way. My mom and I are going and I am thinking about taking my four year old because i don't really have anyone to watch her. I think driving back in the same day would be too much traveling for my daughter in one day. So we might get a motel and come back the next day, but motels are kindof expensive. So would you drive there and back in one day (440 miles) or stay the night and spend the money on a motel? thanks.

Answer 1

YOu don't say how long you need to be in the vicinity of your destination, but you're looking at a good 8 hours on the road.  That leaves only about 4-6 hours for doing whatever it is you are going to be doing there.  I see no problem with such a trip, but you may want to be sure that you and  your mom take turns driving.  

As for the little one, with the right things for a child to do (personal radio, tape player or even a DVD player) and a few safe snacks (small bit of trail mix, cheerios in a sandwich bag, etc and drinks)  you can drive it all straight through. Plan plenty of extra time for bathroom breaks and such. Also, chances are that the child will sleep on the way back anyway.

Answer 2

I would spend the money on a hotel.  I don't know why you are traveling, but if you stop at a place with a pool, the trip would be more exciting for your daughter

Answer 3

Can you stand to be in a car with your mum and child for 4 hours each way, and still concentrate on driving?

Answer 4

I think it's pretty safe to say driving there and back would be fine for your daughter, not too mention more cost-effective.  I've been on trips 600 miles plus in one day when I was younger, and it didn't hurt me any.  Go for it!

Just be sure to give the child some toys and yummy snacks throughout, and you should be just fine.

Answer 5

Children normally sleep great in car rides. So I say save the money from the motel and just drive through, as long as you or your mother aren't too tired to drive.

But if both of you are tired from the days events, definitely get a motel for the night. It will be better to pay the money for a motel for one night, rather than getting in an accident.

So choose wisely and have fun!

Answer 6

I used to make round trips that far with my wife and young daughter, but our daughter rode in  the car really well, and my wife and I would share driving.  It depends if your mother can share the driving, and how well your daughter handles car trips.