My family has taken our share of road trips. We have carted five people, bikes, skis, and a shocking amount of gear all over this country. We have been cramped, exhausted, and frustrated, but I wouldn't give up these trips for the world. Road trips have expanded my world view and relationship to the country that I live in. It is thanks to our travels that I felt confident enough to move from Georgia to Oregon for college because I know that there are people everywhere that I can relate to and love.
Here is some advice I have complied after many hours of sitting in the back seat watching the world go by. Enjoy and go far!
1. Always create a playlist
Maybe it's themed or just a collection of your favorite tunes, but every journey needs a soundtrack.
2. Eat local food
It might require some planning ahead of time. However, after you devour the best cheeseburger or pizza you have ever tasted, you will be glad you checked out the local dives and not just something familiar.
3. Walk in the city
You can't really know a city without walking its streets. Its is a great way to orient yourself and come across something that might not be in the guide books.
4. Drive in the country
Driving through Indiana or Nebraska might sound mind numbingly boring, but it is surprisingly beautiful and humbling to take in the vastness of the country. Don't avoid those country roads!
5. Don't forget to stop and smell the roses
Road trips get a bad rep because they can be dull at times. You have to remember to pull off the highway every once in a while and visit some of the hidden treasure along the way. Even a simple picnic in the park is a great way to break up the day.
6. A road trip is only as great as you plan it to be
Research! Research! Research! It can be a pain, but it will pay off in the end. You will know what tourist traps to avoid and what destinations are must sees. Planning ahead will guarantee a more successful and satisfying journey.
7. Try new things
This might sound rather obvious, but it is so essential to adventure. Take a new form of transportation, go to a sports game, try a new food- anything. You will never forget that experience.
8. Visit family and friends along the way
If you have family that is spread out across the country, you don't always know the next time you will get to see them. Take the opportunity to connect with loved ones if you are anywhere near by. A little love sweetens any day.
9. Visit a National Park
National and State parks are preserved for a reason: they're incredible! Their environments are like no other. Yellowstone is teeming with wildlife and Joshua Tree has more climbing ready boulders than you can imagine. Take the time and visit some of these sites, even if it's just for an hour or two.
10. Look out your window
The simplest yet the most impactful tip I can give you is to pay attention. Phones, music, and conversation are all amazing, but they are also something that you can engage in at anytime. While you're on the road, look out and take in the passing beauty. We live in a country that is wild and varied. Never give up the chance to admire and try to understand it.
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