Sure, being at the cottage is fantastic. Getting there on the other hand, usually isn’t. In fact, the trip to the cottage can be downright miserable. But because, in the end, the long hard slog is worth it, here are a few things that can make the trip a little less torturous.
Entertaining
8 items to make your next road trip more enjoyable
Headphone splitter
Your kids want to watch Frozen for the three-hundred billionth time, but your head’s going to explode if you get any more requests to build a snowman. This headphone splitter means your kids can both watch Elsa and Anna in silence, while you sit back and relax. More info: amazon.com
Rechargeable battery iPhone case
It’s a battery! It’s a phone case! Actually, it’s both. This rechargeable case can give your iPhone up to 130 percent more battery life—that means eight hours of talk, 44 hours of audio or 11 hours of video. There will be no scrambling to look up directions before your phone dies. More info: mophie.com
Travel French press
OK, so grabbing a double-double at a certain iconic Canadian coffee stop is tradition for some -- but if you really, really like good coffee, then look no further than this french-press-travel-mug combo. Brew your own mug of kopi luwak, and set forth knowing you’ve caffeinated in style. More info: bodum.bodum.com
Doggy seatbelt
You can keep your four-legged friend in a crate for long car trips, but if you prefer to give Fido a little more freedom, then a restraint is a handy way to do so. The Sleepypod Clickit is a top-performing harness that allows your pooch to sit up and lie down, but keeps them—and you—safe in a car. More info: sleepypod.com
Overdrive app
The Overdrive app allows you to borrow e-books and audiobooks from your local library with no risk of losing books or incurring late fees. To make a long car trip a little more bearable—and provide your family with some interesting discussions—load up your mobile device with family-friendly audiobooks and re-learn the art of listening. More info: overdrive.com
Folding headphones
These ‘80s retro-neon beauties are infinitely portable, thanks to their foldability. Plus, they’re so bright, you won’t lose them in the bottom of your luggage. Their noise cancelling functionality allows you to drown out traffic noises and backseat squabbles with ease. More info: polaroidstore.com
GasBuddy app
We all know gas prices spike on the weekend, but the GasBuddy app can at least take a bit of the sting out by helping you find gas stations with the lowest prices. And hey, even if the prices are all the same, at least you’ll know where the gas station is before you get down to fumes. More info: gasbuddy.com
Comfy travel clothes
Whether you’re driving or flying, chances are you’re going to be sitting for a while, so you might as well be comfortable. Pick light, breathable fabrics that have a bit of stretch for maximum comfort, and don’t forget a light sweater, just in case the air conditioning gets a little chilly. More info: cottagelife.com
