Family road trips are a much loved part of life in the UK, and as electric vehicles become more common, more families are choosing a cleaner and quieter way to travel. If you are travelling with children, though, the idea of stopping to charge may raise a few concerns. One of the biggest is how to keep the kids entertained while you wait.
The reality is that charging stops do not have to feel like an inconvenience. With a bit of planning and the right vehicle, charging an EV can become a welcome pause in your journey. It is especially relevant with the May half term coming up, when many families will be heading out on day trips and short breaks.
Why Charging Stops Can Work in Your Favour
Charging an EV takes longer than filling up a petrol or diesel car, but that extra time can actually improve your journey. Rapid chargers can add a significant amount of range in around 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the vehicle and charger.
Rather than seeing this as a delay, it helps to think of it as a scheduled break. Children often struggle with long periods in the car, so having a natural stop built into your journey can help prevent boredom and frustration.
Many charging locations across the UK are set up with convenience in mind. You will often find them at service stations, retail parks, and leisure areas with access to toilets, cafés, and open space. Planning your stops around these facilities can make charging an EV far more enjoyable.
A highly recommended, useful tool for planning is Zapmap. It provides details on charging points and nearby amenities, helping you choose the most suitable stops for your family.
Simple Ways to Keep Children Entertained
Keeping children happy during a charging stop does not need to be complicated. A mix of movement, snacks, and activities can make all the difference.
Fresh air can work wonders. If there is space nearby, encourage the children to stretch their legs, have a short walk, or play a quick game. Even ten minutes of movement can help reset their energy levels.
Food is another key part of any successful journey. Bringing along snacks that your children enjoy can turn a charging stop into a small treat. While most service stations offer food options, having something familiar on hand is always helpful.
For quieter moments, digital entertainment can be very useful. Tablets, games, and audiobooks can keep children engaged while you wait. It is a good idea to download content before you travel in case the signal is limited.
You can also make the stop part of the adventure. Encourage children to spot different types of vehicles, count how many electric cars they see, or keep a simple travel diary. Small activities like this can make them feel more involved in the journey.
Planning Ahead Makes All the Difference
A smooth family trip often comes down to preparation. Before setting off, take time to plan your route and identify suitable places to stop and charge.
Look for locations that offer more than just charging. Facilities such as toilets, seating, and food outlets can make your stop far more comfortable. If you can find a location with a bit of outdoor space, that is even better.
It also helps to plan your stops around your daily routine. For example, you might time a charging session to coincide with lunch or an afternoon break. This way, it feels like a natural part of the journey rather than an interruption.
During busy periods such as the May half term, it is wise to allow extra time. Charging stations can be in higher demand, so having an alternative location in mind is always a good idea.
Choosing the Right EV for Family Travel
The vehicle you choose plays a big role in how enjoyable your trip will be. At EVision Electric Vehicles, there is a wide range of options to suit different family needs.
For many families, a larger electric SUV is a great choice. For example, the Mercedes EQA or even the Kia EV6 are fantastic vehicles for the family. These vehicles offer plenty of space for passengers, luggage, and everything else you need for a day out or a longer trip. They also tend to include modern infotainment systems, which can help keep children entertained during the drive.
If you need even more space, an electric van with 5 seats can be a practical option. With flexible seating and generous storage, it is ideal for group travel, sports equipment, or holiday gear.
View the full range of available vehicles to hire and book your holiday rental. This makes it easy to find the right EV for your family plans.
Making the Most of the May Half Term
The May half term is a perfect opportunity to enjoy time together as a family. With longer days and better weather, it is a great chance to explore new places across the UK and make the most of a well earned break.
If you are looking for a family friendly destination to build into your journey, Diggerland UK Theme Park is a fantastic option, especially for younger children. With locations across the UK in Kent, Devon, Durham and Yorkshire, it offers a unique day out where kids can ride, drive, and operate real construction machinery with the guidance of our experienced marshals. It is an exciting way to break up a longer journey and gives children something memorable to look forward to during the May half term. Plus, there is free EV charging available for all Diggerland visitors!
By planning your route with stops like this in mind, charging an EV becomes less of a pause and more of a highlight. Approaching charging an EV as part of the overall adventure can create a more positive and enjoyable experience for everyone in the car.
How to Book an Electric Vehicle Hire from EVision
Booking with EVision Electric Vehicles is designed to be simple and flexible.
Start by viewing the full fleet of vehicles available on our website. Once you have chosen your vehicle, select the length of hire that suits your plans. You can then decide whether you would like to use our insurance or your own.
After that, you can add any additional drivers and choose how you would like to receive the vehicle. You have the option to collect it from one of our UK collection points at no extra cost, or you can arrange delivery to your chosen address.
Once your booking has been placed, the EVision team will contact you to request any required identification and paperwork. They will then finalise the hire with you, making sure everything is ready for your journey.
Ready for the Family Road Trip?
Travelling with children in an electric vehicle does not have to be complicated. With a little planning and the right approach, charging an EV can become a helpful and enjoyable part of your journey.
By choosing suitable locations, preparing activities, and selecting the right vehicle, you can keep your children happy while making the most of your travel time.
Whether you are planning a short day trip or a longer adventure during the May half term, EVision Electric Vehicles can help you get there comfortably and with confidence.
BOOK YOUR ELECTRIC VEHICLE HIRE HEREAll information correct as of: 5th May 2026.
