What parent doesn’t relish the thought of a family vacation? The kids in the backseat hitting each other, asking when you’ll get there for the hundredth time; your spouse refusing to stop and ask for directions; the ten bucks that you’ll have to spend for a small soda at the amusement park.

It all sounds like great fun! Sarcasm aside, a family road trip can be incredibly enjoyable, if you start off with the right attitude. Here are five things to keep in mind when you’re getting ready to hit the open road:

Everyone Has Limits

Any child behavior expert will tell you that even the best behaved children have limits. Mental health professionals will tell you that adults have limits as well. Keeping this in mind will allow you to have a much better vacation. If you know that your children are bound to get anxious and cranky if they don’t get enough sleep, have them lie down in the back of the RV and take a nap. If you know that your spouse will get frustrated at the smallest thing after driving for five hours straight, switch seats after hour number three. Knowing everyone’s limits and knowing when to step in will keep the trip running smoothly.

You Can Have Fun Alone

Even though you’re taking a family vacation, you don’t have to be glued at the hip for the entire trip. Once you park for the evening, take a walk by yourself, send the kids to the playground or send your spouse to the pool with a good book. Being cramped together in an RV can take its toll on even the most patient family member. Each member of the family should take an opportunity for some alone time, provided that they are old enough to do so.

More Time Equals Less Stress

The more time you plan for your vacation, the less stress you’ll experience. Giving yourself even an extra hour or two to reach your destination can alleviate your worry about getting somewhere on time. Plan for a couple of unscheduled days at the end of your vacation. These days will allow you to stay for an extra night if you want to, stop at quirky attractions on the way home or even make a few extra stops at the rest areas along the highway. Your vacation doesn’t have to be planned down to the minute; give yourself some space.

You Don’t Have to Disconnect

Most vacation blogs and articles will suggest that you leave your cell phone, tablets, laptops and other electronic devices behind. This is a fantastic idea for those that can handle it. For others, disconnecting causes more stress than they would experience if they had their smartphone in their pocket. If you can’t completely disconnect without experiencing high levels of anxiety, at least make a deal with yourself to check your email once a day instead of every hour.

Stay Grateful

Psychologists tell us that focusing on positive feelings and being mindful of our emotions, we are more apt to stay in a happier, kinder frame of mind. Try to remember to be grateful that you have the opportunity to take a road trip with your family. Not every family has the ability to spend time together, let alone travel in an RV on the open road. When you stop to consider how fortunate you and your family are to be able to spend time together, not letting the little things bother you becomes quite easy.

Before you pull out of your driveway in your shiny recreational vehicle, make sure that you have the proper insurance coverage, all of your bags packed and loaded, and the right attitude. A family road trip isn’t something to survive, but something to be treasured. By following the five tips above, you and your family are sure to build memories that last a lifetime.

Laura Wilson writes for insurance blogs. Read her work to learn more about options for specific insurance on recreational vehicles and compare at Kanetix.