There is nothing quite like a good road trip and the thrill of going somewhere new (or just different) and leaving behind the mundane in your ordinary life. Road trips are the total package. They affect your mind and body, and it is because of this complexity that a true road trip cycles through five very specific stages.

Stage 1: Pump-up. This is the stage that ensues right after the initial planning of a road trip. A lot of excited jumping around and packing is a defining factor of stage one. You probably create the perfect playlist and pack all the right foods for your sure-to-be epic trip. Parents and friends try to shush your puppy-like enthusiasm.

Stage 2: Beginning of the trip. In this stage, you all-too-eagerly spring out of bed at an ungodly hour as you bound around the house to get ready as fast as possible. This stage includes bouncing in your seat and hassling the driver about all the places y'all could stop for food. You put on your favorite driving song and settle in for a comfortable journey.

Stage 3: Boredom sets in. At this point, a few hours later, you have eaten all your food, played all the songs on your playlist, and no longer have any feeling in your rear from all the sitting. Your friends or family are pretty much ready to strangle you from your consistent "How much longer?" You suddenly realize that patience is a virtue you very much lack.

Stage 4: Home stretch. This stage usually happens when you are about 30 to 60 minutes away from your destination. A newfound energy overcomes you as you realize the end is near. Excitement and feeling in your limbs returns.

Stage 5: Arrival. You made it! You have never been so happy in your life as you frolic around and spin in circles, finally free of a vehicle's restraint. After your two-minute happy dance is complete, you proceed to crash on the nearest somewhat-comfortable surface until the next day. Doing nothing in a car all day sure is draining.

And the trip home is an abyss of sadness and sleepiness.