I’m so ready for spring. I’m getting the itch for a road trip. No, I don’t mean taking a flight or train, I mean actually driving and enjoying the beauty around us. For many of us, you are wondering where the beauty is, right? The roads are congested with traffic, construction keeps us gridlocked in traffic and frustration creeps in.
I know road-tripping comes with its own unique set of challenges, from staying awake during long stretches of driving to keeping yourself entertained when you’ve run out of things to talk about (or tea to sip) with your friends. I found some tips on how to have an AWESOME road trip.
Tip #1: I tend to get tired when we are driving those endless highways, what about you? If there is a group of people traveling, the chatty person should always sit in the passenger seat. They can help keep the driver and the rest of the car entertained. Remember those games we played with the kids in the car, like ‘I Spy’, what about some adult versions like Would You Rather, and the License Plate game. Yes, they sound silly, but trust me, after hours of driving and boredom, you’ll be so delirious these become funny.
Tip #2: Pack as little as possible on the backseat so there is room to stretch out. Try road tripping with kids using cubes to help stay organized. When you arrive at a hotel, do things seem to explode out of your luggage? The cubes could help you stay organized. In addition, bring a little laundry bag to put dirty clothes in so when you get home, you know exactly what needs to be washed.
Tip #3: Long car rides make me want lots of sugary candy like Starbursts, red licorice, and of course chocolate. I firmly believe it helps to me stay awake while I’m driving. Don’t burst my bubble! I keep everything within reach so I am not driving and struggling to reach snacks or drinks.
Tip #4: Apps are great, Google saves lives and GPS will get you where you want to go. I am still old school and write down directions and an itinerary ahead of time. I also figure out an approximate budget so I can stay on track.
Tip #5: The best part of a road trip is trying new foods and sampling the best each destination has to offer. I take recommendations from friends and family. I also like to check in with employees at the hotel for their favorite local non-tourist place.
Tip #6: Get off the big highways and interstates. Take a chance and drive down a random little road! That’s the advantage of a road trip: Getting lost is the best thing you can do, because it will help you discover something new. You’ll likely be incredibly be surprised by what you find—or who you’ll meet! I remember taking Sunday road trips with my parents and we always had so much fun.
What is YOUR best tip when going on a road trip? Share it with us.
Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!
Hope Wissel 