Summer is here and so is road trip season. After recently completing a long (VERY LONG) journey in my tiny little two door car, I feel that I need to share some tips to help anyone who may be traveling across this beautiful nation this summer.
1. Bring a buddy.
Having someone to trade off driving with is so important for your sanity. You think you won't get bored and that you are going to have this amazing "me" time. Yeah, that lasts about 4 hours and then you are sick of yourself and your thoughts. Having someone to switch off with makes the journey more enjoyable and you can also see more of this beautiful nation without having to worry you are going to miss your exit. This way, if you feel a sudden tiredness creeping in, you have someone who can take the wheel (literally and figuratively).
2. Have activities to keep your brain busy.
Now, you may think that only little kids need activities to keep them occupied but nope, you will get bored too. So I suggest making a bomb playlist, with many genres to keep things interesting. I also suggest downloading an audio book. This way you keep that brain of yours engaged and alert. Mystery novels are a personal preference because it keeps you thinking and can feel sort of like you are watching a thriller (but obviously you aren't because you should be watching the road). Podcasts are also another great option.
3. Plan but don't overthink it.
It is important to have a general idea where you want to stop and sleep, but you don't necessarily need to book a hotel in advance. You may feel like you can continue on past this destination or you may need to be done for the day way earlier than you planned. Save yourself the money and misery by loosely planning where you want to stop. This way you don't pay for a hotel in a town you don't end up staying in. Also, just try to stop for gas every half tank, give or take. You don't have to plan out every place you are going to stop, but just try to stop somewhere once you meet that half tank marker, just in case there isn't another gas station for a while.
4. Invest in a Car Mount.
If you plan on using your phone for your GPS on your road trip, get a car mount for it. You can find some for under $30 and they are totally worth it. It keeps your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, rather than messing and looking down at your phone GPS. I used mine through the whole trip and will continue to use it forever and ever.
5.Pack your own snacks.
Packing your own snacks saves you money and gets you to your destination faster. Instead of having to stop whenever your feel the need to munch, just bring your own. Your stomach and bank account will thank you. Also, having snacks in the car helps to keep your brain awake and alert.
Hopefully this helped you out in your exploration of travel knowledge. Just remember: hit the road, don't let it hit you. Peace, love, adventure and stiff legs from hours in the car. Happy trails to you. Safe travels. And any other road trip phrases you can think of to inspire travelers.
