It’s always fun to go on a family outing with the kids. On days when it feels like there’s nothing to do or everyone is falling into a routine, you may want to gather up the crew and find a new activity to get into. However, the best family outings require a little more planning and a little less spontaneity. Here are four ways to have a successful family outing.

Choose an Activity

Think outside the box. What does your squad want to do, or what’s something you all have not done yet? Choose an adventure-filled activity that will keep everyone occupied for the day.

Get your kids pumped up for the outing by choosing together. Ask a friend, neighbor, or family member what they recommend. If your kids have started to take an interest in certain hobbies, see if you can find a relevant activity.

Pack a Bag

The essentials are important. Every mommy needs a go-to bag when she’s out with the kids. Kids run on love and oxygen, but sometimes they need a little more. Include some of their favorite toys, snacks, and extra clothing, just in case. The temperature may drop, or they could have an accident, so you want to prepare for anything.

Choose a bag big enough for your personal items as well, or bring a separate bag for yourself. For your bag, include:

• Tissues
• Wet wipes
• Hand sanitizer
• A phone charger
• A sweater

If the outing requires paperwork of any kind, make sure it’s either on your person or inside the bag.

Stop for the Potty

Bathroom breaks are essential. Naturally, you’ll make sure everyone uses the bathroom before leaving the house, but everyone will need the toilet eventually. If the activity for the day is outside, they’ll need help with the porta-potty.

Depending on how much fun they’re having, they probably won’t tell you when they need the bathroom. After every drink, check in and see if they need to go. A good rule of thumb is asking every hour or 30 minutes. Stay close and make sure everyone uses the bathroom before the ride home.

Spend the Whole Day There

Here’s a little tip just for you. The goal is to have fun on this day. But the real goal is to tire them out before the day is done. You want to get the kids good and drowsy by the time you get home so you only have time for dinner, a bath, and one story before bed.

Don’t rush the outing. There will be times when they want to stop and observe something, or they’re having too much fun with one activity to move along to the next. Let them wear themselves out. Make sure you run through every pretend game their active imaginations can cook up. And, of course, document everything. Take as many pictures as possible because these are the times you all will want to remember most.

Every family outing may not be successful, but these four tips will make sure your next one is.