(StatePoint) While the saying “getting there is half the fun” is a great concept in theory, in practice, a road trip can be quite stressful on families. But with a bit of smart packing and preparation, you can make your long summer road trips and shorter commutes more entertaining for kids.

This summer, be sure to stock your car with some great activities and books.

Science Fun

Science and fun can go hand-in-hand, especially in the car. Try the middle-grade adventure series “Nick and Tesla,” which follows the adventures of two tween siblings who use their inventions to solve mysteries. The series is co-authored by “Science Bob” Pflugfelder, an award-winning elementary school science teacher and regular guest on “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” and Steven Hockensmith, a former journalist.

Their latest book, “Nick and Tesla’s Secret Agent Gadget Battle,” features a riveting mystery plot as well as easy-to-follow instructions and diagrams to recreate the devices the characters use to solve their conundrums.

With this action-packed book in your arsenal, kids won’t even realize when you’re stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic! Information about the series can be found at www.NickandTesla.com.

A Novel Idea

There is no better way to kill time than with one of the oldest forms of entertainment — a novel. Teens can check out “Hollow City,” the sequel to the 2011 best seller, “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children.”

A mix of fantasy and vintage photography, this book aims to mesmerize young readers into a state of perpetual road trip complacency. For more information, visit www.quirkbooks.com/hollowcity.

Fun and Games

Take Tic Tac Toe to the next level with “Tic Tac Tome.” No apps, batteries or touch screens are required to enjoy this addictive “book that will beat you in tic-tac-toe.”

Created by Willy Yonkers, the lead industrial designer at ThinkGeek, Inc., it features more than 1400 pages, hundreds of draws and losses, and only one way for a reader to win each game. Take this one along for a guaranteed distraction from the boredom of endless highway. Visit www.quirkbooks.com/book/tic-tac-tome to learn more.

When it comes to road tripping, don’t leave home without a comprehensive toolkit. Drinks and snacks will keep bellies full, but brain food in the form of books and activities is a great solution to put the brakes on that age old question — “are we there yet?”

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Photo Credit: (c) Maksim Toome – Shutterstock