If you have at least one child you know how difficult it can be to travel. Add in more than one child and things can get downright hectic. On top of buying a vehicle with enough space, safety should always be something that is on your mind.

Like many, you may have an interest in buying a minivan. Although you have many options, not all of them are going to meet your requirements in terms of price, features, and of course, safety rating.

Despite the fact that you have a lot on your mind, safety is one of the first things you should consider when shopping for a new car. This is true no matter if you are shopping for a minivan or some other type of vehicle.

Every year, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety makes public its top safety picks based on its crash test score.

Here are the minivans that were rated safest for 2012.

Chrysler Town and Country

Two years in a row the Chrysler Town and Country has found itself on this list. To go along with a variety of safety features, as well as a high crash test score, this vehicle gets above average gas mileage while also offering a rear-seat DVD system (perfect for small children). With more than 40 safety features, you can rest easy when you travel in this vehicle.

Honda Odyssey

The Honda Odyssey is one of the top selling minivans in the United States. It is well known for its reliability and safety.

The Odyssey has found its name on this list four times. In addition to the many safety features, there is a 16.2-inch DVD system with two screens. Does it get any better than that on a long trip?

Dodge Grand Caravan

For many years, the Dodge Grand Caravan has been one of the most popular minivans around. Consumers love this vehicle for many reasons, including its high safety rating.

For two years in a row, the Grand Caravan is on the list. It scored well on all four-safety tests. Along with this, it offers multiple convenience features such as its famous stow-and-go seating.

Toyota Sienna

In terms of reliability, the Toyota Sienna is just about as good as it gets. But did you know that this vehicle also has one of the highest safety ratings?

Thanks to its high crash test scores, the Sienna is on the list for the third straight year. In addition to safety features, the seats are easy to adjust (perfect for large families) and there is a lot of storage for those long road trips.

Volkswagen Routan

Volkswagen has long been known for offering some of the safest vehicles on the road. The Routan is no exception. Anytime you find yourself in this vehicle you will feel 100 percent safe. On top of this, you are going to enjoy all the space as well as the entertainment systems located in both the second and third row seats.

Are there any other minivans on the road? Of course. That being said, they are not as highly rated, in terms of safety, as these five.

When you consider one of these vehicles, you never have to stress out over safety. And of course, there are other features that make them family friendly.

If nothing else, consider the crash test results and safety features before buying a minivan. This will help you purchase the vehicle that is best for you, your children, and anybody else who will be traveling with you.