Spring semester has come and gone, grades are in, and you are left with three long months away from your college hometown. Often, my family plans vacations which usually require an extensive amount of time on the road and in close corners with the entire family. There are only so many ways to power through such an interesting journey on the road, and truthfully, they make the journey more enjoyable.

For starters, I was the only one in the family that didn't cringe at the thought of spending the next couple days on US 19. It allowed time to watch the roads I was familiar with turn into rivers and valleys and eventually mountains. I enjoyed watching the map of the US pass before me and listening to songs that comprise my childhood.

However, after hour 15, there are only so many ways to ensure that you will make it to your destination alive and still sane, so here I am sharing the good tips.

1. Throwbacks.

There is only so much joy the top 15 hits of the year can bring you. As soon as you bring back "Hot in Here" by Nelly, the entire car is up and ready to bump. My sisters and I would belt out song after song, each holding a different line of lyrics for each one. If you keep the older playlist going for the next hour, being the driver won't seem so lonely.

2. Podcasts.

I was introduced to a murder mystery podcast during a road trip two summers ago and I haven't stopped the addiction since. No obnoxious music, no confusing context, just a story. Not only are you not having to listen to the same things over and over again, but its like binge-watching a Netflix series except you aren't dangerously distracted by watching the television.

3. The alphabet game.

As states come and go, sometimes the most exciting thing to come is an advertisement for the "best peaches in Georgia". Watch out for all the letters that comprise the alphabet and the first one to get to 'z' wins.

4. Cracker Barrel.

The only positive aspect of getting up before the sunrise is knowing that you're going to be able to stop and eat somewhere after a couple hours. My family's favorite spot was a chain called Cracker Barrel and it never disappointed. After the umpteenth road trip, we eventually switched to a couple of other family favorites, but this one will always remain in my memory as a youngin.

Having been three years since the last family road trip, it leaves me excited for the next one to come. Sometimes they can be dreadful and tiring, but they will always hold a special place in your heart. Whether it be an hour trip or a two-day trip, these four tips will always promise some entertainment during your long drive.