iPads on the road you say? Nah, the kids will be learning and playing in the outdoors… Which generally is the case, however, reality is, they use there iPads and they are a super handy device when travelling and schooling your kids. Dare I say it, they are essential if you’re travelling full time.

Our three kids have an iPad each and we bought them about 4 months into our first lap. Initially, out of necessity. Being that, we needed to get our young kids through those big kilometres in the outback of Australia + our eldest nearing Kindergarten.

Truly the best investment! Not only are there some excellent educational apps, they also get you through that last hour driving to you next destination. When you know you’ve got a 500km day driving these things just come in handy!

For us, we most certainly have a rules around iPad use and screen time. If you stick to your rules, then having iPads on the road won’t be a drama. For the most part, our kids iPad use is restricted to the car. We will get them out on a rainy day and sometimes use them for schooling.

Some of OUR rules, take it or leave it…

No iPads 2 hours before bed. We find this makes them wired and a lot harder for them to fall asleep.
Screen time is restricted to an hour and then they have to get up, go for a ride, swim and burn some energy. Breaks are essential.
For the most part, iPads are for car travel only and longer than one hour.

When you’re travelling Australia, your kids really won’t have much time to watch iPads. You’ll be busy exploring, snorkelling, hiking and making new friends. Our kids (yours will be to) are by far the happiest when out in nature and remember that this is why you decided to travel and do this trip. So stick to your family’s rules and the kids will adjust.