Image courtesy of Geofflivingston.com
I once heard someone compare road trips to childbirth: Done right, it can be an experience of a lifetime. Done wrong, you’re stuck in a car for 16 hours wondering whose “brilliant” idea this was?!?
Road trips are one of the best ways to celebrate the sizzle of summer. Sun, fun, a whole lot of music and friends are the essentials for any good road trip. This summer, I have two road trips planned. I’m actually in the midst of one as I write this.
I’m a cheap traveler, penny-pincher to the max. This is why I love road trips. When you’re riding in a group the costs can be dispersed amongst everyone, making everything much more cost-efficient.
The most expensive aspect of the trip is usually gas, depending on how far you’re traveling of course. The gas does add up, but as of right now gas prices are down 20%!
So I’ve devised a small list of my top five road trip essentials:
1,) Get your car checked out before you leave. Make sure to get a full inspection on oil and other fluids. Don’t forget to check the front and the taillights. You don’t want to have to deal with minuscule issues that can later result in traffic tickets.
2.) Travel with people you love. Or at least like. Good company can make all the difference. The longer the trip, the more compatible you want to be with your fellow passengers. Long conversations can and often do turn into confessionals or sing-a-longs.
3.) Take turns driving and NEVER let the gas get close to “E.” Driving can be exhausting, and everyone wants to enjoy their vacation. It’s also nice to get a break from just sitting and watching out the window and trying really, really hard not to say anything when the other driver gets really, really close to the car in front of him. Don’t forget to keep the tank filled. No one wants to be stranded in the middle of nowhere. It’s not “part of the adventure.”
4.) Pack food, drinks, music and trash bags. I never really understood why some people don’t pack a cooler and snacks when they take a road trip. Are you just hoping to find something deliciously nutritious at a gas station? Load up on water bottles, pop, juice boxes, crackers, pre-made sandwiches, fruit and other travel-friendly, non-perishable snacks. As for music, always pack twice as much as you’ll need, and bring a variety. I promise you’ll get sick of listening to Lady GaGa, and yearn for the comforts of Bach at some point.
5.) Plan extra time for unexpected stops. Life’s unpredictable. Sometimes your window won’t roll up or that #1 stop turns into a #3. Stop and take pictures in front of those really cool bluffs. Some of the coolest places I’ve been have been on the way to where I was going. The best road trips are just as much about the journey as the destination.