The last few weeks of summer mean it's time to head back to school and get started on another Fall season ahead. Still, there's just enough time to squeeze in a family road trip for a few more memories of summer fun. Family road trips are a great time to bond with family members, spend some quality time in a new location and explore some new territory.

Whether you're heading to another state or just staying close to home, the experience can be fun and memorable with the right plan. You can ensure the family road trip is enjoyable by packing the right gear and preparing for unforeseen emergencies.

Packing the right gear ensures everyone ? especially the kids ? are occupied with an assortment of activities throughout the trip. Not only does this prevent temper tantrums, but also encourages kids to be creative with basic games and activities during a long trip. Be sure to pack crayons, toys, handheld games and other activities to keep kids busy during that long stretch.

Packing food and snacks will keep hunger pangs at bay and can also reduce anxiety and irritability during those long stretches. Packing up healthy snacks such as granola bars, fruit leather, peanut butter sandwiches and other treats can also prevent kids from becoming hyperactive in the confined space, and will reduce or eliminate the need to make a pit stop at a fast food restaurant.

For those really long stretches of time, anticipate that most family members will spend the time snoozing. Plan ahead for ?sleep y time? with a few travel pillows and blankets to make the ride that much more comfortable.

Take regular breaks on long trips so that everyone has time to release pent up energy, get some fresh air and freshen up for a few minutes. This can be as simple as stopping at a gas station or area restaurant for a break, or even setting up a mini-picnic at a park along the route.