Easy morning wake-up: light breakfast at home or in your accommodation (yogurt, toast, fruit) and a quick pack check — confirm toddler bag with snacks, nappies, change of clothes and favourite toy.
Drive to Kingston Foreshore Farmers Market (if open) or local supermarket: pick up fresh picnic supplies, bottled water and any last-minute travel essentials for the road trip.
Return to accommodation to finish packing luggage into the car; install toddler capsule or booster securely and test sunshades — aim for a calm, unhurried pace so the toddler isn’t overstimulated.
Short play break at the nearby park (Forrest or Commonwealth Park playground): let the toddler burn off energy while you finalise maps and paper copies of bookings.
Brunch at Poppy’s Café in Kingston or The Cupping Room in the city: family-friendly menu and high chairs; keep it relaxed and avoid rushing before departure.
Leisurely visit to the Canberra Centre for a quick browse or a last-minute gift stop — useful if you need sunscreen, hats or travel games for the toddler.
Drive to the National Arboretum Canberra (20-25 minutes): easy stroll through the gardens with stroller-friendly paths and great views — ideal gentle sight before hitting the road.
Picnic lunch at the Arboretum Village Café or on the grass with a view of the surrounding pines; toddler can enjoy open space and a short nap in the shade afterward.
Head back to your accommodation to load final items into the car, top up fuel, and confirm route to Wagga Wagga; aim to leave Canberra around 2:30-3:00 PM to avoid peak afternoon traffic.
Depart Canberra for the first leg of the trip; plan for a relaxed drive with an easy tempo — play familiar children’s songs and have road snacks and drinks within reach.
Comfort stop at Yass bakery or service area (approx halfway to Wagga): stretch legs, change nappies if needed, grab coffee and a savory pastry for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Continue driving toward Wagga Wagga with another short stop if the toddler needs a break — choose a park or rest area with shade to keep things simple and refreshing.
Arrive in Wagga Wagga and check in to your family-friendly accommodation (suggested: Mercure Wagga Wagga or Quest Wagga Wagga) — settle toddler into familiar bedtime routine to help them sleep after the day’s excitement.
Dinner nearby at The Riverina Hotel or Cafe Dolce & Piccolo: family-friendly menu and relaxed atmosphere. Consider ordering early or choosing takeaway if the toddler is tired.
Short evening walk along the Murrumbidgee River or a quick visit to a nearby park if the toddler is awake; otherwise enjoy a quiet night in the room with a bath and storytime.
Prep for tomorrow: charge phones/portable battery, set out clothes, and double-check bookings for the next day. Leave a small bag with snacks and essentials near the door for a stress-free morning.
Lights out and rest: adults wind down with a hot drink while toddler sleeps — aim for a restful night to start Christmas Eve refreshed and ready for a relaxed day exploring Wagga Wagga the next day.
Wake gently — quick family breakfast at your accommodation (cereal, toast, fruit) and pack a toddler travel bag with favourite toy, nappies, wipes, spare clothes and easy snacks for the morning.
Check out and load the car, double-check toddler capsule/seat is secured, top up fuel, and grab takeaway coffee from a nearby café such as Ona Coffee in Kingston if you need a caffeine boost.
Depart Canberra toward Wagga Wagga; set up a playlist with familiar children’s songs and podcasts, and plan for a relaxed driving pace with scheduled breaks every 60-90 minutes.
Comfort stop at Yass (approx 1 hr 15 min) — stretch legs at Yass Showground playground or grab a pastry and coffee from the Yass Bakehouse; change the toddler’s nappy if needed.
Resume driving through pastoral NSW; enjoy farm and rolling-gentle-hills scenery while offering snacks and water for the toddler to keep them content between stops.
Short break in Gundagai — walk along the Tumut River and visit the Gundagai Dog on the Tuckerbox lookout for a quick photo and fresh air; there’s space for the toddler to toddle and expend energy.
Lunch stop at Junee: try the Junee Licorice & Chocolate Factory café or a family-friendly pub like the Commercial Hotel for a simple meal and a toilet/nappy change break.
Head back on the road for the final stretch to Wagga Wagga — plan a quiet activity for the toddler (board book, small soft toy) to encourage a nap on the drive.
Arrive in Wagga Wagga and check in to family-friendly accommodation such as Mercure Wagga Wagga or Quest Wagga Wagga; unpack essentials and give the toddler time to settle with a short indoor nap if needed.
Afternoon visit to Victory Memorial Gardens and playground — stroller-friendly paths, shaded lawns and a well-equipped playground let the toddler play while adults enjoy river views and photos.
Take a gentle riverside stroll along the Murrumbidgee River or hire a pedal boat from the Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens (check availability) for a toddler-friendly short outing if they're awake and curious.
Early relaxed dinner at The Riverina Hotel or Café Dolce & Piccolo — both offer family-friendly menus and high chairs; consider ordering a simple pasta or grilled meal for an easy evening.
Post-dinner playground time at Jubilee Park or a slow walk around the CBD to help the toddler burn off remaining energy before bedtime; pick a quieter spot if crowds are heavy.
Return to your accommodation for toddler wind-down: bath, storytime with a favourite book, and dim lighting to cue sleep after a stimulating day of travel and play.
Toddler bedtime routine completed — adults can relax, review the plan for Christmas Day, confirm reservations, and prepare a small gift or special snack for morning surprises.
If you’d like a short night out, enjoy a quiet drink or dessert at a nearby café such as The Daily Brew; otherwise unpack and double-check the car for tomorrow’s longer drive to Mildura.
Final preparations: charge phones/portable battery, lay out tomorrow’s clothes, and place a small day-bag by the door with nappies, snacks and paperwork for a stress-free departure.
Lights out — rest well so you’re refreshed for Christmas Day in Wagga Wagga tomorrow or the next leg of your trip if you choose to travel early.
Wake gently and enjoy a relaxed in-room breakfast: warm croissants or cereal you picked up earlier, fruit and milk for the toddler; set out a small wrapped Christmas morning surprise or stocking to make the morning special.
Casual gift time and family photos: open a couple of easy presents, take a few candid photos around your accommodation and let the toddler explore a new small toy while adults sip coffee and savour the slow morning.
Short walk to Victory Memorial Gardens (if you’re staying nearby) for fresh air and to let the toddler run on the lawns and playground equipment; the gardens are stroller-friendly and peaceful on Christmas morning.
Return to your room or a nearby café offering limited hours (check ahead) for a light second breakfast or hot drinks — if cafés are closed, enjoy picnic-style nibbles from your supplies back at the gardens or accommodation.
Leisurely visit to the Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens and Marine Park: stroller-friendly paths, shaded spots and the small aviary are toddler-pleasing; bring a sunhat and water as December can be warm.
Relaxed riverside stroll along the Murrumbidgee Riverbank near the Botanic Gardens; stop at shaded benches for toddler play and family photos with the river as a calm backdrop.
Christmas lunch at a family-friendly venue offering holiday service if available — check ahead for places like The Riverina Hotel or Riverina Maze & Café (confirm Christmas hours) or prepare a picnic-style festive lunch in a shady part of the Botanic Gardens.
Quiet downtime/nap for the toddler back at your accommodation: adults can relax, read, or take turns walking nearby for a short break to recharge after the morning activities.
Late-afternoon visit to Jubilee Park playground or Lake Albert (a short drive) for a gentle paddle or some ducks-watching; both spots are toddler-friendly and give extra outdoor playtime after lunch.
Ice cream or cold treat stop at Café Dolce & Piccolo or a local gelato spot in town to cool down — let the toddler enjoy a small scoop while adults relax on a bench and watch the local Christmas atmosphere.
Stroll through the CBD if shops are open, or explore nearby Christmas displays and community decorations; collect a few festive photos and maybe a small souvenir from an open stall or bakery.
Return to accommodation to freshen up and begin a calm pre-bed routine: bath, storytime with a favourite book and dim the lights to help the toddler wind down after an engaging day.
Early, easy dinner in-room or nearby takeaway: simple family favourites like roast chicken from a local deli, pizza from a family-friendly spot or pre-prepared sandwiches — keep it low-key and toddler-friendly.
Short evening walk to the riverfront or a nearby park if the toddler still has energy; otherwise enjoy quiet play and cuddles in your room with soft Christmas music to close the day.
Bedtime routine complete: tuck the toddler in with a favourite toy and a final story; adults can review plans for Dec 26 (drive to Mildura) and confirm times, route and any open services for Boxing Day.
Adults’ wind-down: enjoy a festive drink or small dessert, sort photos from the day and charge devices; pack a small day-bag for tomorrow with nappies, snacks and spare clothes ready by the door.
Lights out and rest: aim for a good night’s sleep so the family is refreshed for the next leg of your road trip — set alarms and double-check vehicle fuel and bookings for the Mildura drive tomorrow.
Wake gently and enjoy an easy in-room breakfast (toast, fruit, yoghurt) so the toddler has familiar food; dress for a warm day and pack a day-bag with nappies, wipes, sunhat, water and favourite toys.
Check out of your Wagga Wagga accommodation and load the car; secure the toddler seat, top up fuel at a local servo (BP or Caltex on Edward Street), and grab takeaway coffees from Ona Coffee or The Daily Brew.
Depart Wagga Wagga heading west on the Sturt Highway (A20) toward Narrandera then on toward Mildura; set a calm playlist and plan short stops every 90-120 minutes for stretches and snacks.
Comfort stop in Narrandera (approx 1.25 hr) — visit McGrane Park playground for a 15-20 minute play and a nappy change, and grab pastries or coffee at a local café such as Liberty Café to refuel.
Back on the road; offer toddler a morning snack and water, and encourage a short quiet time or nap with a familiar soft toy while you enjoy the rural scenery en route to Hay and Balranald.
Stretch legs at Hay (approx 1.75-2 hrs from Narrandera) — stop at the Hay Visitor Information Centre and take a quick walk by the Murrumbidgee River or visit the small playground near Lions Park for fresh air and photo opportunities.
Lunch break at Balranald (cafés vary in opening hours on Boxing Day, so plan for takeaway or picnic) — try the Sunraysia Café if open or set up a picnic in the Balranald Showgrounds shady area; change the toddler and let them toddle.
Continue the drive through the Riverina toward Mildura; encourage quiet car activities (board book, stacking cups) and keep hydration and sun protection handy as temperatures rise in the afternoon.
Comfort/refuel stop at Euston/Murray River rest area (depending on route) — short riverside walk to stretch legs and let the toddler see the Murray River; take photos on the riverbank and have a light snack.
Arrive in Mildura and check in to family-friendly accommodation such as Quality Hotel Mildura Grand or Comfort Inn Chaffey International; unpack essentials and let the toddler have a short rest or quiet play in the room.
Late-afternoon visit to the Mildura Riverfront (Proudfoots Landing and Langtree Avenue precinct) — stroller-friendly paths, lawns and nearby cafés make for an easy, toddler-friendly outing to stretch after the drive.
Treat time at a local café on Langtree Avenue — try Café Spoons or Sol Suns for gelato or a refreshing drink while the toddler watches river boats and feeds ducks (supervise closely near water).
Short ride on the Mildura Paddle Wheeler or a riverside stroll (check operating hours on Boxing Day) if available and toddler-friendly; otherwise explore the nearby Mildura Arts Centre lawns and sculpture trail for casual sightseeing.
Early relaxed dinner at Ricci’s on the River or The River Deck Café (check holiday service) for an informal family meal with river views — choose simple pasta, grilled fish or kids’ meals to suit the toddler’s tastes.
Return to your accommodation for the toddler’s bedtime routine: warm bath, storytime and familiar cuddles to wind down after a long travel day and new sights.
Toddler tucked in; adults can map out the next day (Mildura activities like the Australian Inland Botanic Gardens or Murray River cruise) and confirm opening hours for Boxing Day, plus set out clothes and nappies for the morning.
If you’d like a short evening wander, walk along Langtree Avenue to enjoy Mildura’s quiet riverside atmosphere and grab a takeaway dessert from a local bakery; otherwise relax in-room and charge devices.
Final prep and rest: double-check fuel and route for tomorrow, pack a small day-bag for immediate excursions, and wind down with a warm drink — aim for an early night to recover from travel and enjoy a fuller day in Mildura tomorrow.
Wake gently and enjoy a relaxed in-room breakfast (toast, fruit, yoghurt) so the toddler has familiar food; pack a small day-bag with nappies, water, sunhat, sunscreen and a favourite toy for morning activities.
Short walk to Langtree Avenue along the riverfront to let the toddler toddle on grassy areas and spot early morning river birds; this is a peaceful way to start the day and scope out nearby cafés for later.
Breakfast at Sol Suns Café (Langtree Avenue) — family-friendly menu, coffee for adults and a small pancake or toast option for the toddler; sit riverside if seats are available.
Head to the Australian Inland Botanic Gardens (approx 10-15 min drive) for stroller-friendly paths, shady playgrounds and themed gardens—let the toddler explore safe grassed areas while you enjoy a relaxed stroll.
Drive to the Sunset Zoo (Mildura) and arrive for the late-morning visit; the zoo is compact and toddler-friendly — see kangaroos, emus and smaller enclosures that are easy to navigate with a young child.
Toddler-friendly activities at Sunset Zoo: visit the petting/interactive area (if open) and let the toddler watch feeding times or feed small animals under staff guidance; keep snacks and water handy to maintain energy.
Lunch at Café Spoons on Langtree Avenue or a picnic on the Mildura riverfront lawns — choose a shady spot so the toddler can play safely while adults relax with a light lunch.
Back to accommodation for a rest/nap time for the toddler; adults can unpack photos, confirm afternoon bookings (paddle boat or Murray River cruise) and recharge devices.
Late-afternoon river activity: board a short Murray River cruise or the Mildura paddle wheeler (check current schedules) for a gentle, shaded trip that’s calm and entertaining for little ones.
If the cruise isn't operating, hire a small pedal boat or take a riverside walk to Proudfoots Landing — toddler-safe areas and plenty of ducks to watch make this a relaxed alternative.
Treat stop at Ricci’s on Langtree or a gelato from The River Deck Café — let the toddler enjoy a small frozen treat while you sit riverside and watch boats pass by.
Visit the Mildura Children’s Farm / family-friendly park (check local listings for opening hours) for hands-on animal time and a secure playground where the toddler can run and socialise.
Return to your accommodation to freshen up and start the toddler wind-down routine: warm bath, change into pyjamas and a calm story to transition from playtime to bedtime.
Early dinner at The River Deck Café or Ricci’s on the River (both offer simple family-friendly options); choose a quick pasta or grilled option so mealtime stays relaxed and toddler-friendly.
Short post-dinner stroll along Langtree Avenue to admire the river lights and let the toddler burn off any last energy; if tired, head back to the room for quiet play and cuddles.
Final bedtime routine: storytime, favourite toy and a gentle lullaby — aim for a consistent routine to help the toddler settle after a full day of new experiences.
Adults’ relaxed time: review tomorrow’s route to Murray Bridge, check fuel and accommodation details, and set out clothes and nappies for an easy morning departure.
Lights out and rest: unwind with a warm drink and ensure phones/portable batteries are charged so you’re ready for the next driving day to Murray Bridge.
Wake gently and enjoy a familiar in-room breakfast (toast, fruit, yoghurt) so the toddler has favourite foods before a longer drive; pack a small day-bag with nappies, wipes, sunscreen, sunhat and a couple of new small toys for car entertainment.
Check out of your Mildura accommodation (Quality Hotel Mildura Grand or Comfort Inn Chaffey International) and load the car; secure the toddler seat, top up fuel at a nearby servo on Deakin Avenue and grab takeaway coffees from Café Spoons or Sol Suns.
Depart Mildura heading south-east via Sturt Highway/A20 then Mallee Highway and Karoonda Road toward Murray Bridge; cue a relaxed playlist of toddler songs and audio stories to set a calm travel tone.
Comfort stop at Red Cliffs (approx 1.5 hr) — stretch legs at the Red Cliffs playground and grab a snack or a coffee from a local café such as The Big Ink Café; change nappies and let the toddler toddle on the grassy reserve.
Short scenic break at Ouyen or under shady roadside gums (depending on your exact route) — picnic-style snack on the bonnet or in a rest area, plus a short stroller-friendly walk to keep the toddler engaged and recharged.
Arrive in Swan Hill area for a riverside stretch if you prefer a slightly different route option — walk along the Murray River boardwalk (if stopping) and visit a café such as The Wharf Restaurant & Bar for a quick drink and tempting treats for the toddler.
Lunch stop in Robinvale or an open-town café en route (check holiday hours); choose a family-friendly spot like the local bakery or a pub with shaded outdoor seating and ensure the toddler gets a run-around break in a nearby park.
Back on the road toward Murray Bridge — offer the toddler a quiet activity (board book, pop-up toys) and encourage a car nap on this longer mid-afternoon leg to make the final approach easier for everyone.
Comfort/fuel stop at Pinnaroo or Tailem Bend depending on route choice — stretch legs, visit a small playground if available, refill the car and pick up chilled drinks and snacks from the service station for the last stretch to Murray Bridge.
Short detour to Tailem Bend’s SteamRanger precinct or the Murray Bridge lookout (if timing suits) — a 20-30 minute break to see trains/river views and give the toddler a sensory change from the car environment.
Arrive in Murray Bridge and check in to family-friendly accommodation such as the Murray Bridge Hotel or a family unit at Discovery Parks — unpack essentials, set up the toddler’s sleeping space and allow a short rest if needed.
Late-afternoon stroll along the Murray River promenade and visit the Riverfront Playground near Swanport Road — stroller- and toddler-friendly with shaded benches so adults can enjoy river views while the little one plays.
Early relaxed dinner at The Riverfront Bar & Grill or The Bridge Hotel Tavern — both offer family-friendly menus; choose simple meals like pasta, grilled fish or kids’ schnitzel and request high chair if needed.
Post-dinner ride on the Murray River if available (short ferry or tourist boat) or a gentle walk across the historic Murray Bridge to watch sunset reflections on the water — a calm family moment before bedtime.
Return to your accommodation for the toddler’s bedtime routine: warm bath, storytime with a favourite book and dim lights to cue sleep after a day of travel and new sights.
Toddler tucked in; adults can confirm plans for the final drive to Adelaide tomorrow, check fuel and departure time, and pre-pack a small bag with snacks and nappies for an easy morning.
Optional short evening walk or dessert at a local café such as Matteo’s Café for coffee and pastries if you’d like a relaxed nightcap — otherwise unwind in-room and review photos from the day.
Final prep and rest: top up fuel if needed, set alarms, charge devices and ensure all travel documents and bookings for Adelaide are to hand so you’re ready for a calm departure tomorrow.
Wake gently and enjoy an easy in-room breakfast (toast, fruit, yoghurt) so the toddler has familiar food; pack a small day-bag with nappies, sunscreen, water, a sunhat and a couple of new small toys for the final drive.
Check out and load the car; secure the toddler seat, top up fuel at a nearby servo (eg. Caltex Murray Bridge), and grab takeaway coffee and a savoury pastry from Matteo’s Café or a local bakery for the road.
Depart Murray Bridge for Adelaide via the South Eastern Freeway/M1 — set a calm playlist and plan one mid-drive stop so the toddler can stretch their legs and nap in the car if needed.
Comfort stop at Tailem Bend or Wellington (depending on traffic) for a 20-minute leg stretch, nappy change and a short park play — pick a shady spot so the toddler can toddle safely.
Arrive at your Adelaide accommodation (suggested: family-friendly options like Stamford Plaza Adelaide or a serviced apartment in Glenelg); check in if possible or drop bags and set up the toddler’s sleeping space.
Morning visit to the Adelaide Botanic Garden: stroller-friendly paths, the Bicentennial Conservatory and the core collection are calm and toddler-pleasing; enjoy a short, shady walk and take photos at the Palm House.
Head to the nearby Adelaide Zoo for a late-morning visit — compact enclosures, pandas and a children’s playground make it an easy, engaging stop for a toddler while being close to the city centre.
Lunch at the Adelaide Central Market or the Zoo café: choose a family-friendly cafe such as The Market Stall or grab picnic supplies at the Market to eat in the botanic gardens or at a shady bench near the zoo.
Return to your accommodation for toddler nap/quiet time; adults can unpack properly, confirm plans for tomorrow and charge devices while the child rests in a familiar environment.
Late-afternoon outing to the Adelaide Oval precinct and Riverbank Lawn: stroller-friendly lawns, open space for the toddler to run and a calm river view; pop into the River Torrens boardwalk for a short stroll.
Take the toddler to the nearby playground at Rundle Park (if you prefer east of the city) or the Adelaide Botanic Garden playground if you want a quieter spot — let them explore while adults relax nearby.
Make your way to Glenelg Beach (approx 25-30 minutes by car or tram) for a gentle seaside late-afternoon visit — paddle at the shoreline, watch the tram and let the toddler enjoy sand play (bring sunscreen and a bucket).
Dinner on Jetty Road, Glenelg at a family-friendly restaurant such as La Trattoria or Fishbank for simple pasta, fish and chips or kids' options; choose an early table to avoid busy dinner times with a toddler.
Post-dinner walk along Glenelg Jetty to watch the sunset over the bay and let the toddler enjoy the sea breeze; grab a small gelato from The Moseley Coffee or a nearby gelateria if desired.
Return to accommodation for the toddler’s bedtime routine: warm bath, storytime and dim lighting to cue sleep after an active day of travel and exploring Adelaide.
Toddler tucked in; adults can outline the final day in Adelaide (Dec 30), check ferry/tram times if needed, and prepare a small day-bag for tomorrow with nappies, snacks and sun protection.
If you’d like a short night out, enjoy a quiet drink or dessert at a nearby city bar or café such as Peel St or maybe a stroll around Rundle Street; otherwise unwind in-room and review photos from the trip so far.
Final prep and rest: charge phones/portable batteries, top up fuel for any onward travel, and confirm bookings and times for Dec 30 departure or extra Adelaide activities so you’re relaxed for the last day of your trip.
Wake gently and enjoy an easy in-room breakfast (toast, fruit, yoghurt) so the toddler has familiar food; pack a small day-bag with nappies, sunscreen, water, a sunhat and a favourite toy for morning activities.
Final check of luggage and car: load the stroller, toddler bag and any last souvenirs; top up fuel if you plan to drive home or onward and confirm checkout timing with your accommodation (ask about late check-out if needed).
Short morning stroll to the Adelaide Botanic Garden (if you’d like one more calm nature visit) — enjoy stroller-friendly paths and the Palm House while the toddler watches birds and sniffs the flowers.
Breakfast or coffee at The Botanic Shop & Café or nearby Market Street café — choose a riverside table or takeaway to sit in the gardens so the toddler can toddle on the lawns and burn some energy.
Option A — Gentle outing to the South Australian Museum and nearby Rundle Mall for a short indoor exploration if the toddler is curious about animals and natural history; use the pram-friendly routes and baby-change facilities.
Option B — If you prefer seaside time, head to Glenelg for a final beach visit: paddle at the shoreline, let the toddler play in the sand and stroll the Jetty Road precinct for any last-minute gifts or seaside treats.
Meet-up for an early lunch depending on your choice: Adelaide Central Market (The Market Stall or Red Door Bakery) if downtown, or La Trattoria/Fishbank on Jetty Road in Glenelg for family-friendly meals and kids’ options.
Return to accommodation for nap/quiet time for the toddler and to finalise packing; parents can use this window to confirm travel documents, ferry/tram times (if returning to the city by public transport) and any hire-car drop-off details.
Check out and load the car (or store luggage with reception if you have a late departure) — if staying longer, tidy the toddler’s sleeping area and make a quick checklist of anything left behind.
If time allows before departure, short, toddler-friendly stop at the Adelaide Zoo playground or Riverbank Lawn — a quick play session to stretch legs and create one last fun memory before travel.
Pick up light snacks and drinks from a nearby café or supermarket (Adelaide Central Market vendors or Coles/Woolworths) for the journey home; ensure nappies and a change of clothes are easily accessible in the car.
Begin departure from Adelaide toward your onward destination; plan for regular comfort stops every 60-90 minutes, play familiar songs and offer quiet car activities to help the toddler relax on the road.
Comfort stop at a child-friendly rest area or town en route (e.g., near Mount Barker if heading east) — change nappies, let the toddler run in a shady park and refresh with a quick snack and a drink.
Continue travelling with the aim to arrive at your next stop or home before bedtime; if you’re still in transit, plan a simple takeaway dinner at a family-friendly stop so mealtime stays calm and predictable for the toddler.
If you’ve arrived at your final accommodation or home, set up the toddler’s sleeping space and follow the usual bedtime routine: warm bath, storytime and a favourite toy to help them settle after the day’s activities.
Adult wind-down: review trip photos, make a short notes list of favourites and any places to revisit, and confirm any remaining travel details or car returns for the morning if relevant.
Final prep for the next day (unpack the essentials you’ll need first), charge devices and relax — aim for an early night after a gentle, toddler-friendly end to your Christmas road trip from Canberra to Adelaide.