You can remember when travel meant a chance to get away from it all. Even a car trip or an airplane ride was fun. But all that changed when you became parents. Add a couple of kids and travel becomes something to be avoided whenever possible.

Take heart! There are some things you can do to make travel fun and exciting. Whether you're headed across town or across the country, pack up for travel made easy.

The most important thing for you to take is a great attitude. If you get into the car (bus, train, airplane) with the attitude that the trip is something to be endured, you'll barely endure it. Travel can be fun if the adults in the car set out to make it fun. Kids are usually easily entertained with a bit of imagination and patience. Regardless of where you're travel will take you, pack a great attitude before you even get out your luggage.

Look for travel games. There are hundreds to choose from. You can play license plate poker or blackjack. Engage the family in a search for each letter of the alphabet on billboards or license plates. Keep a list of all the different states you see license plates from. See how many people in other cars will wave. Play "I'm going to the store to buy" and list (in order) something for every letter of the alphabet until someone can't remember. Remember to be age-appropriate so that everyone can play.

Sing. If you don't know many, you can find plenty of CDs with silly songs, folk songs and children's songs. The rules to this game are simple - everyone sings, regardless of ability. Talent doesn't count.

Look for the unusual. If possible, get off the major freeways and see what there is to see. Stop often, but don't always look for the chain gas stations. Short walks through tiny towns can be much more fun (and less expensive). Be safe, but be ready to explore. Kids love an adventure and you (with your positive attitude) can turn anything into an adventure.

Finally, be ready for anything. Take baby wipes or put several wet washcloths in a plastic baggie for wiping faces. Small pillows will make naps more comfortable. Crayons, paper, coloring books and story books may provide a much needed diversion.