As a minivan mom, I can honestly say there's nothing better than a car your toddlers can climb in and out of on their own, one with a DVD player that keeps them quiet for longer car rides, and seats you don't panic over when someone spills cheddar bunnies or squeezes a juice box too hard. My only rule? If you make the mess, you help clean it up.

A few months ago, I was listening to a podcast and someone asked Kris Jenner how she managed to raise seven successful kids while balancing motherhood and everything else. Her answer? It all started with a clean car. Now, she might live in a different world than the rest of us, but she has a point. A clean, well-stocked car really can make life a little easier.

Over the years, I've learned that keeping certain things in the car can make or break a chaotic day. My friend, who has triplet three-year-olds and a six-month-old, keeps a stash of plastic cups in her car so she can pass out snacks without having to share one by one or have her kids drop their snack through there tiny hands. I always keep band-aids, wipes, and a few extra plastic bags for dirty shoes or surprise messes. Even gum or mints can help a kid who suddenly claims they are car sick!

Other smart things to keep on hand? A spare outfit for each child, a small first aid kit, sunscreen, bug spray, hand sanitizer, and an old towel that is perfect for drying off a wet slide at the park. A blanket can double as a picnic mat, and an extra pack of water bottles is always a good idea.

Your car doesn't have to be spotless, but it helps to make it functional. Because sometimes, it's the little things, like having snacks, wipes, or a band-aid ready to go, that keep the day running smoothly!