1. Throwback Playlists
Vehicles double as a time machine when fitting music is playing through the speakers. My personal favorite is Maroon 5's first album, "Songs About Jane." Whether you and your friends/family are tone-def, or harmonize like naturals, there's something about singing with the windows rolled down, beside the people you love, down a straight road that is so fulfilling.
2. Small Towns
Small business boutiques and ice cream parlors are simple, and running because of hard work and personal touches. Never underestimate the possibility of encountering a big find in a little town. I don't encourage anyone to browse these stores with the intent to find something specific, my dad and I recently came across an ornate lawn table and chairs set repurposed out of tractor wheels without any intent to spend a penny.
3. Food Finds
The perfect snacks for a roadie are essential, my friends and always double check to make sure there's enough suckers and cool beverages in the back. However, I love going to small, unpredictable, restaurants. Two of my all-time favorite places were found due to impulsive decision to stop at because "this place looks good," 7 Mile Pizzeria in Marathon, Florida, and Rafferty's in Nisswa, Minnesota.
4. Highway Games
Sure, I Spy, "I'm Going on a Picnic," 20 Questions, and Hangman will forever be cheesy and rather lame, but they sure can bring out the creative side no matter your age, and be almost as fun as when you were 11.
5. Quality Conversations
I've learned long drives are a great setting to talk and learn a lot about the people you already thought you knew everything about. They are also an excellent time to share stories as you create another one on your road trip.
6. Scenic Views
Thanks to the one girl who pretends she is artsy on her snap story you can see a mediocre picture of the sunset almost every night, but watching it go down yourself in the midst of the random place you're driving through is something so captivating. Driving beside the grand lakes of Minnesota, or even countless tumbleweeds in South Dakota is so peaceful.
7. Wrong Turns
We all have that friend who thinks they know where he/she is going. Don't get angry when they forgot to tell you the turn was five miles ago, for these are the beginnings to some of the most legendary stories.
8. The Satisfaction of Arriving
Stretching your legs, praying the luggage and coolers do not come crashing down when you pop the trunk, and finally being able to say, "We made it" with a smile is arguably the greatest, and most rewarding part.
