Long car journeys have been identified as one of the most stressful aspects of parenting, according to new research. The study, carried out by breakdown firm Britannia Rescue, surveyed 1,000 UK parents and found that 53% consider lengthy drives among the most difficult parts of raising children.
The findings come as 84% of parents prepare to hit the road this bank holiday weekend, with average journeys of four hours. A third (31%) said they are dreading trips with their children, while 51% struggle with keeping them entertained. Constant complaints such as "I'm bored" and car sickness were each cited by 32% of respondents.
In response, Britannia Rescue has launched the 'Road Trip Soft Play Guide', a resource highlighting soft play centres near major motorways. The guide aims to help parents plan pit stops to prevent tantrums, with 86% of parents of under-sevens saying a well-timed break can be a lifesaver.
The guide features reviews of centres across the UK, from Edinburgh and Newcastle to Bristol and London. Each location is assessed by undercover parenting influencers and rated for fun factor, parental perks, nap enhancement and overall roadside respite.
Parenting influencer Kelly Brady, from @the_manc_family, said the guide is "perfect to rescue parents" and helps make the journey as fun as the destination. Britannia Rescue's Jag Kullar said the company, named 'best breakdown service of 2025' by What Car?, created the guide to relieve the stress of travelling with young children.
