The Family Road Trip Survival Kit

May 28, 2005 — -- More than 37 million Americans are expected to pack into their cars and hit the road this Memorial Day weekend to kick off the unofficial start of summer. But anyone with kids knows how harrowing a road trip can be.

Heidi Mitchell, a senior editor at Travel & Leisure magazine, joined "Good Morning America" with tips on the latest gadgets and gizmos to help the family survive the weekend ride.

This kit lets the family travel with confidence and be prepared for the unexpected. It includes a first-aid kit, emergency light, jumper cables, reflector triangle, digital tire gauge, lug wrench with double-sided sockets, screwdrivers, insulated slip pliers, plug-in air compressor and durable case.
Price: $80

Kids need plenty of toys to keep them entertained, and this luggage made especially for the little ones helps keep all that stuff under control. The luggage is made of durable polyester, comes in turtle or ladybug print and includes address tags, reflective logos for safety, foam top carrying handle, in-line skate wheels and an extra front zipper pocket for more organization.
Price: From $50 to $120

You've got to feed the wild animals -- and these "bring your own" bags hold lunches and snacks for the kids. The neoprene bag has two insulated compartments that can hold both food and drink of many sizes. The bag folds open into a placemat. Plus, they look cool and are machine washable. There's also a BYO six-pack that holds six 12 oz. bottles or cans.
Price: From $14.99 to $19.99

With eye-popping graphics, widescreen LCD, wireless connectivity and the ability to play games, music and movies when and where you want, the PlayStation Portable gives you the freedom to enjoy entertainment on your terms. It's like an iPod, Game Boy and DVD player all in one.
Price: $200

If you're bringing your pet on the road, this "doggie seatbelt" keeps the family dog safe and under wraps. It attaches to any vehicle's seatbelt system and includes a built-in short walking lead for all-around use. Veterinarian approved.
Price: $29.95

When mom and dad need some peace and quiet on the road, they can pop on these headphones. They work as both headphones to listen to music and produce white noise that cancels outside sound. The design allows them to lie flat for easy storage.
Price: $299

When you want some shut-eye, these eye shades block out all light. Soft padding soothes eyes without pressure. Earplugs are included.
Price: Starting at $25

For the man who refuses to ask for directions, this portable GPS system has voice prompted, turn-by-turn guidance and touchscreen technology that makes navigating multiple destinations easy. It can be easily transferred from one vehicle to another and is loaded with U.S. and Canadian maps.
Price: $589

This device allows the whole family to listen to the same radio station via iPods and lets you download audio books from the Internet for the family to enjoy.
Price: $79.95