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John Segale recalls that, when he was as young as his two girls are now, he could sit in the passenger seat and tell people exactly how to get to his grandparents' house, even though he could not drive and didn't know the street names. "My real fear is that some day one of my kids will be asked how to get from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe and the answer will be, 'I don't know for sure how to get there, but it takes about two movies!' "

While these electronic activities can be a good option for families like Segale's--who is driving from Northern California to Idaho this summer--there are other creative travel ideas and projects for families in the car.

Automotive expert Steve Natt, host of Fine Living Network's summer special, Are We There Yet?, says he believes planning how to keep everyone happy in the car begins before you even leave the driveway. "Parents need to think ahead by packing several nutritious snacks, entertainment and crafts projects, and 'luxury' items for kids. For our girls, we bring a comfortable blanket and pillows from their beds."

Robyn Silverman, Ph.D., a child-development specialist, advises parents to bring along small packets of tissues, antiseptic hand gel, hand cream, Band-Aids, and any necessary pain relievers.

Silverman adds that there is something very much worth bringing on a trip that can make all the difference--an extra set of hands. "Grandparents or personal friends can be an exceptional distraction for children and indispensable for parents who need a break, especially single parents."

Once you've decided who and what hits the road with you, Natt recommends that families leave very early in the morning, if possible: "Fully load the car and be ready to drive off before you wake the kids. When it's time, gently transition them from bed to car seat and see if you can do it without waking them. This way, the first few hours of the trip your kids are either sleeping or very quiet. Once they're up at a normal hour, stop for breakfast when rush-hour traffic might be at its worst."

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