Planning a family road trip to Saudi Arabia may seem daunting. However, even with all of the different things to consider, it doesn’t have to be hard. Navigating your way through picking out the right accommodations, to gas and charging spots, and even picking the best food stops can be overwhelming.
Saudi Arabia is a massive country that has a wide variety of landscapes. It is also a country chosen by many foreign entrepreneurs who come here to start a company and benefit from the local opportunities. From stunning desert vistas to breathtaking coastlines, and vast green mountains, there is so much to see. That means that road-tripping through this fascinating middle eastern country is the way to go!
When it comes to putting together an unforgettable family holiday, there are a few steps you definitely need to take. In order to save you more than a few headaches, this list of helpful tips was made to make planning your road trip to Saudi Arabia much simpler! Check out these top hacks to make your family vacation go so much smoother!
Flying and Rental Car Considerations
First things first, you’ll need to not only get into the country, but you’ll need a way to get around once you are there. When you fly, it’s simple to fly into a large airport and then get a rental car. For instance, a large airport like that of Riyadh will have plenty of options.
If you are looking at Riyadh car rental reservations, then you know that you definitely need to book your vehicle way ahead of time. You can save a lot of money by booking your flight and your rental car at the same time. Be certain to check multiple websites and apps to find the best deals.
You also need to think about car emergencies and car care. Double-check when your rental was last serviced before you set off. Not to mention if there are emergency tools and kits in the car for your safety. It’s better to ask before you drive off the lot than to find yourself in the middle of the road without anything you need!
Packing and Snacking
Probably the most important part about planning any road trip is packing and snacking. You will need to pack not only your personal items like clothes and essentials, but you’ll also need to pack the car with activities and food.
If you’ve ever road-tripped with your family, then you know it isn’t the easiest if you don’t have all the essentials. A family road trip to Saudi Arabia won’t be magically different just because you are in a new place. Here are some necessities to keep in mind when planning out your packing list:
For Parents:
- Maps
- Chargers
- Tablets and Phones
- Water
- Books
- Headphones (for music or audiobooks)
For Kids:
- Coloring pages
- Fun books
- Headphones for tablets
- Tablets (it is ok to still limit screen time on the road!)
For Everyone:
- Water
- Fun beverages like soda, juice, or electrolyte drinks
- Lots of snacks, including healthy options
- Possible candies and treats
- Paper towels or rags to clean up spills
- Hand Sanitizer
- Tables, or Lap organizers
- Printable games, or small games
- Trash bags, or a trash container
No matter what you pack, be certain you have things to entertain the whole family, as well as snacks and beverages for everyone. You never know when you will be able to stop for food, so having snacks on hand is important. Not to mention something to do during the long hours in the car.
Routes are Important!
Speaking of stopping for food and hours in the car, it is extremely important to plan out your route. Not only do you need to know where you can stop for gas or a car charge, but you also need to know if you can stop for food and bathroom breaks.
If you are planning a route out, you need to take everyone in the car into consideration. That means planning stops for the littlest ones, as well as for the primary driver to take breaks. You will need to think about food, accommodations, bathroom stops, gas and charging stations, and so much more.
You also need your route in order so you don’t get lost, or stranded in a foreign country. Unless you are from Saudi Arabia and know the area very well, then you’re good. However, you will probably have to plan out every turn and stop. The best family holidays are organized and thought out. Including your family road trip to Saudi Arabia.
Accommodations Along the Way
Once you have your route situated, your packing list made up, and your flights and rental cars worked out, it’s time to start thinking about booking lodging for your trip. There are lots of options throughout the country, so it will be easy to choose. Simply remember that you should definitely book hotels in advance. Especially in bigger cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, or Makkah (Mecca).
You can choose to camp, stay in hotels, find family-friendly resorts, and so much more. Really think about what you want, and what your family will want, after a long day in the car.
Planning Out Activities
Activities for the whole family are really easy to find throughout the beautiful kingdom of Saudi Arabia. From camel rides and desert adventures to theme parks to museums and more, there is literally something for everyone.
Because the weather is pretty hot in the region, planning out activities and your road trip during the winter months will still mean you get to do outdoor activities. Consider the weather, how long you may have to drive that day, as well as local accommodations before booking any activities. So if you are booking in the summer heat, take that into account when looking at outdoor options.
Most family-oriented holiday activities will need reservations. Be certain to book your museum tickets, your theme park passes, and your guided tours before you leave your home! That way you can plan them into your route, your packing needs, as well as your accommodation considerations.
The Family Road Trip to Saudi Arabia You Will Never Forget
Planning out a road trip doesn’t have to be difficult! By first booking plane tickets and rental cars, then moving on to the right packing lists and routes you will be able to start off the perfect family road trip to Saudi Arabia before it even begins! Finding the best hotels and campgrounds for your family can lead to some of the most memorable activities that Saudi Arabia has to offer. Start planning out your road trip to Saudi Arabia today to get the most out of your next family vacation.
