What I Keep in the Back of My Van for a Smoother Summer with Kids



What I Keep in the Back of My Van for a Smoother Summer with Kids

Because motherhood is mobile—and a little preparation goes a long way!

Summer in our household is full of park days, field trips, homeschool meetups, and spontaneous adventures. And with four kids in tow, I've learned the hard way that a well-stocked van can be the difference between a meltdown (theirs… or mine!) and a smooth day out.

Over the years, I’ve developed a “summer survival station” in the back of our van. It’s not fancy, but it’s so practical. Today I’m sharing what I keep on hand to make our busy summer days easier, cleaner, and less chaotic. I’ve included Amazon Associate links to some of my favorite or similar items to help you build your own stash!

Portable Picnic Blanket

We’re often eating lunch outside—whether it’s a park bench, the grass, or the back of the van. I keep a foldable picnic blanket in the trunk at all times. I found mine at Costco, but this one is super similar and easy to clean. Great for impromptu picnics, shade from hot car seats, or even an emergency diaper change spot.

🚽 Potty Emergency Kit

Potty emergencies don’t care if you’re 10 minutes from the nearest bathroom. I keep a portable potty with liners in the van, similar to this one. It has saved us more times than I can count—especially with toddlers or long car trips.

💦 Water Jug for Refills

This large water jug filled with ice water comes with us everywhere during the summer. It’s perfect for refilling water bottles on the go, staying hydrated during long park days, and avoiding extra drink stops (or fights over the last sippy cup). Just one more way I keep our outings budget- and mom-friendly!

Cleaning Essentials Tub

In a plastic storage bin in the trunk, I keep:

  • Lysol wipes – for sticky hands, questionable picnic tables, or mystery car spills

  • Paper towels – for everything

  • Plastic cutlery – because I always forget to grab some at the drive-thru

  • First aid kit – stocked with band-aids, tweezers, antiseptic, and Benadryl

  • Plastic grocery bags – for trash, wet clothes, or surprise messes

It’s not glamorous, but this little tub has been a game-changer!

💡 Bonus Tips

  • Keep a few bottles of water in the car in case you forget the jug.

  • Stock a small cooler bag with non-melting snacks like granola bars or applesauce pouches and rotate weekly.

  • Don’t forget a change of clothes for the littlest ones!

Being prepared means I can say “yes” to more spontaneous fun and handle the curveballs with a little more calm. I’m not trying to be Supermom—I just know that a stocked van = fewer stressful moments.

From one mom-in-the-trenches to another—this is what’s working for me!

Connect with me on Instagram at @ministry.of.mothering for daily encouragement, easy recipes, and support. We’re all in this together!

#MinistryOfMothering #MomVanEssentials #SummerMomHacks #HomeschoolMomLife #LargeFamilyLogistics #ChristianMomLife #OnTheGoMom #BusyMomTips #SummerWithKids #MomVanMustHaves #FaithFilledMotherhood #HydratedKidsHappyMom

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