Crew Not Cargo! Backseat Survival

MISSION 001: BACKSEAT SURVIVAL

MISSION OVERVIEW

Long road trips can mean EPIC adventure – but they can also mean being stuck in the back seats for a LOOONG time!

This mission is designed to get you through the journey.

MISSION OBJECTIVE: Survive the journey without boredom, meltdown, or snack-related conflict.

Bust Boredom

1. Pack puzzle books, sketchpads, playing cards (and the latest copy of Roadster!).

2. Create a playlist – are your family brave enough to let you be the car DJ?

3. Stay in charge! Make sure all your devices (including headphones!) are fully charged and ready.

4. Prepare to top up – don’t forget to take the correct charging cables, power adapters, travel adapters and fully charged battery packs.

Roadster! Top Tip: Download films, audiobooks, podcasts and playlists before you leave – mobile signal can disappear just when you need it most.

Smart Snacking!

1. Pack enough fuel! Ensure you have a supply of healthy, dried and sweet snacks like nuts, seeds, cheese sticks and water-rich fruits.

2. Who says you can’t have sweets? Use “tactical sweets” in very small doses to boost energy, focus and team morale when needed.

Roadster! Top Tip: Frozen pouches, like fruit purées and yoghurt pouches, kept in a cool bag thaw gradually and make a refreshing chilled snack for the first part of a long, hot day.

Hyper Hydration!

1. Keep your systems powered by sipping water regularly.

2. Try freezing half a bottle of water, then topping it up to stay cool for longer.

3. Supplement your water with juice boxes or flavoured drinks using a straw for quick, easy refreshment and a bit of variety.

Roadster! Top Tip: Refill whenever you stop – service stations, cafés and visitor centres are great opportunities to top up water bottles before getting back on the road.

Climate Control

1. Pack flexible layers so you can easily adjust to changing temperatures during the journey.

2. Choose slip-on, slip-off footwear to keep things comfortable and practical on long trips.

3. Bring key comfort items like a blanket, sun hat, neck pillow, sunshades and lip balm.

4. Pack a lightweight, foldable raincoat – weather can change quickly when you’re on the move.

5. Don’t forget a personal comfort item, whether that’s a plush toy, blanket or travel pillow.

6. Keep sunglasses within easy reach – even on cooler days, bright light can be tiring over time.

Roadster! Top Tip: The best comfort setup is simple and adaptable – wear layers you can adjust easily, use footwear you can slip on and off, and keep essential comfort and weather items close by so you can respond quickly to changing conditions without unpacking everything.

Wise Wellness

1. Ensure there is a crew sickness pack in the cabin. It should contain tissues, hand sanitiser, travel bands, sickness bags and all your necessary medications – just in case!

2. Ensure there is a first-aid kit in the car to provide immediate support to your crew should you need it.

3. Take regular movement breaks. Stretching your legs, walking around and getting some fresh air every couple of hours can help everyone stay comfortable, alert and road-trip ready.

4. Try to limit screens on twisty roads – looking down at phones or tablets can make travel sickness worse. Instead, look out of the window or switch to audiobooks and podcasts.

Roadster! Top Tip: Take regular movement breaks – stretching, walking and getting fresh air every couple of hours helps everyone stay comfortable, alert and road-trip ready.

Emergency!

1. Some European countries require drivers to carry warning triangles and high-visibility vests. Check local regulations before you travel.

2. Keep a small torch or headlamp within easy reach – it can be invaluable if you need to check something outside the vehicle after dark.

Roadster! Top Tip: Keep a small torch or headlamp within easy reach and make sure someone in your crew knows how to call for help and share your location using a mobile phone. Apps like what3words can be really useful if you ever need assistance.

Mission Bonus! Easy Reach!

1. Keep all your travel kit within easy reach using a backpack or seat hanger – don’t pack it in the boot!

2. Keep a “next-stop kit” handy with wipes, tissues, snacks and drinks so you can grab everything you need without unpacking half the car.

Roadster! Top Tip: Pack it yourself so you know exactly where everything is, and keep essentials within easy reach so you can find them quickly when you need them.