What are the signature techniques Hilary Erickson uses for engaging children during road trips without a DVD player?

Hi, I’m Hilary Erickson from The Pregnancy Nurse. How can I help?

I’ve very intentionally chosen not to have a DVD player in our car, because I like using road time for imagination and family connection. To keep kids engaged, I lean on a few simple, low-tech traditions:

• Wrapped “surprise” gifts from the dollar store, handed out at set intervals (like every 100 miles)
• 100‑mile prizes that might be a snack, a game we all play, or a small toy
• Rotating music to set the mood (yes, including calming tracks like Enya when everyone needs to chill)
• Classic car games: the ABC game (letters on signs or items that start with each letter), and car bingo
• A small “car purse” or bag for little ones, stocked with a few toys so they can manage their own entertainment

Would you like ideas tailored to your kids’ ages and how long your typical trips are?