Travel with Teens and a Thule
Modern cars are not created for large families. On a recent family trip, I found myself with five children and a car designed for 3 children maximum.
Roof box to the rescue! I discovered my teenage daughter was just the right height to fit comfortably (when lying down) into a travel roof box.
I punched three large air holes into the top of the compartment. I provided her with the comforts of a warm fleece blanket and pillow. All she needed was her iPod and away we went.
I don’t recommend this for children under the age of thirteen as they might panic in the small, dark compartment. Also, it is imperative that the child understand that a roof box is only safe for human travel if the occupant agrees to lie still until the vehicle stops and they are released from the roof box for a break.
I find a two hour stint is the maximum amount of time a child should travel in the roof box. At the 2 hour mark, my daughter was ready for a short break. We pulled over at a road side restaurant so she could stretch and walk about.
Yes, a large van is ideal when traveling with 5 children; but in a pinch, a roof box is better than someone missing out on a family trip.
*Do NOT attempt this without the author’s direct supervision.
JOHN HART
Love your sense of humour!
Mix Hart
Thanks S! I’ve decided to be true to my nature and write more articles just for the fun of it.
Penny Wallace
Sounds like a good solution to the space problem , but I know you are kidding.
Mix Hart
Yes, one of my better ideas I think 😉
theodoor van dam
I like the imaginary step that Mist uses to get into the coffin, um… roofbox.
Mix Hart
Yes, she’s quite graceful in her attempt to climb on top!