Family Road Trips with Roof Tents: What to Pack & How to Stay Sane

Family road trips are some of the best memories you’ll ever make — but they’re also some of the messiest, noisiest, most chaotic moments too. Add a roof tent into the mix and you’ve got the perfect blend of freedom and “where’s the wipes?!”

Here’s how to pack smart, stay comfy, and keep the crew smiling on your next family road trip.

🚙 1. Choose the Right Roof Tent

Not all roof tents are created equal — and when you’ve got kids, space and comfort matter.

🎯 Look for:

• A 4-person+ capacity tent

• Annex options for extra covered space

• Quick set-up (no poles to wrestle with)

• A ladder-friendly layout for little legs

🔗 Browse Family-Friendly Roof Tents

🧳 2. Pack Like a Pro (Not a Stress Case)

Organisation saves your sanity.

✅ Must-haves:

• Roof box for bulky or daily-use gear

• Storage tubs for inside the vehicle

• Soft bags over hard suitcases — they flex and fit better

• Packing cubes for keeping kids’ clothes separate

🔗 Check Out Our Roof Box Range
🔗 Related: Van Life Essentials: Stay Comfy & Organised

🧸 3. Keep the Kids Entertained (and You Sane)

Boredom is the enemy of the road trip.

🎒 Essentials:

• Audiobooks & playlists (pre-download!)

• Tablets or devices with headphones

• Games like “I Spy” or printable bingo cards

• Notebooks, pens, stickers, and snacks (lots of snacks)

✅ Keep emergency entertainment in a seatback organiser within arm’s reach.

🛏️ 4. Night-Time Routine = Calm (ish) Campers

Sleep can be your best friend or worst enemy on the road.

Tips for tent bedtime:

• Stick to the usual routine: PJ’s, story, brush teeth

• Pack favourite toys or blankets

• Use blackout blinds or an eye mask for summer evenings

• Bring a small LED lantern for reading or comfort lighting

🔗 Shop Roof Tent Accessories
🔗 Also see: Interior Protection Upgrades

🧼 5. Embrace the Mess — But Prepare for It

✅ Don’t forget:

• Rubber car mats (you’ll thank us later)

• Wipes, tissues, and sanitiser in the door pocket

• Portable bin for snack wrappers

• Boot liner if you’ve got dogs or muddy gear

🔗 Interior Mats & Covers
🔗 Car Care Essentials

📦 6. What to Pack: The Checklist

🛏️ Sleeping:

• Bedding (duvets, pillows, sheets)

• Mattress topper for added comfort

• Sleeping bags for colder nights

🍽️ Cooking:

• Stove or BBQ + fuel

• Cutlery, plates, pans

• Water container + washing bowl

🧼 Essentials:

• Towels + toiletries

• Wet wipes, toilet roll, bin bags

• First aid kit

🧥 Clothing:

• Layered clothing for all weathers

• Waterproofs and wellies

• Hats and sunscreen

📚 Related Posts:

• UK Road Trip Routes That Are Roof Tent Friendly

• What It’s Really Like to Travel With a Roof Tent

• Best Roof Bar Accessories for Camping