It may seem like common sense of what to pack for on a vacation, but sometimes hopping in a car for a day trip seems to take as much effort. We like to travel so that we aren't stretching the wallet too far. Having a larger vehicle takes more gas. Having a larger family takes more food. We always have everyone grab a filled water bottle before we leave. We bring a back pack filled with snacks such as cracker packs, fruits and sandwiches. Make sure to take the bug spray!!! If you plan to hit any of the swimming holes bring your towels, blanket, tanning lotion and toys. A change of clothes for the kids is a good idea as well as the 'sand' locally is not like beach sand. Bring your camera! There is so much beauty in New England. When I navigate with the kids I stop to take pictures of anything I think is appealing. When my husband navigates he is destination bound, and I am usually empty of cool pictures. :) Bring your map just in case. I really like mapquest to get driving directions. I can say it honestly hasn't failed me yet.
OK! Ready for the photo tour!? Oh wait.., everyone use the bathroom before we leave!!
I named this blog Roaming New England because as a family that is just what we like to do. We are a large family by today's standards, 6 in all. To travel with 4 children can be a challenge and a reward. All at various ages and stages they have differences of what to do and how to do it. Of all the things we try to do it is the travelling around to new local State Parks and outdoor destinations that end up being the biggest hit. Yes, at first our teenager groans and grumbles at having to bare through sitting in a car with his *gasp* family. Yes, our youngest huffs and puffs over the thought of physical labor (ie; walking). And yes, our two middle boys fight over who will sit where. But after we get them packed and in the van and on our way everyone soon settles in. We have found many wonderful spots through out New England. We hope to find many more to come.
