Should I use a roof box?

Only if you've exhausted your trunk space. Roof boxes increase wind resistance and fuel consumption, and they make it harder to access your gear at gas stations.

How do I keep kids from kicking the back of my seat?

Install a seat-back organizer. It keeps their tablets and water bottles contained and acts as a barrier that discourages them from kicking the upholstery.

So packen Sie Ihr Auto für einen Familien-Roadtrip

Prioritize accessibility by packing the trunk by weight and frequency of use, keeping emergency gear and snacks in the cabin. Use soft-sided bags instead of hard suitcases to maximize every cubic inch of your vehicle’s storage space.

Map your trunk zones. Divide your trunk into three zones: 'The Bottom/Back' for heavy items (coolers, tents) that stay put, 'The Middle' for medium-sized luggage, and 'The Top/Front' for items you need for quick stops (jackets, snacks, stroller).
Use soft-sided duffel bags. Hard-shell suitcases leave gaps you can't fill. Use duffels or gym bags that can be squashed into corner voids and under-seat gaps.
Create a 'First Response' bag. Keep a small backpack in the passenger footwell containing chargers, wet wipes, medication, travel documents, and a change of clothes for each child. Never put this in the trunk.
Secure the heavy load. Ensure heavy items are pushed against the back of the rear seats. This lowers the center of gravity and prevents items from becoming projectiles if you have to brake hard.

Should I use a roof box?: Only if you've exhausted your trunk space. Roof boxes increase wind resistance and fuel consumption, and they make it harder to access your gear at gas stations.
How do I keep kids from kicking the back of my seat?: Install a seat-back organizer. It keeps their tablets and water bottles contained and acts as a barrier that discourages them from kicking the upholstery.