We don’t know if it’s this beautiful weather or because we’re (hopefully) past the height of a global pandemic, but we are beyond ready to hit the open road. There is something so special about road trips and having the ability to pull over and check out every historical sight or scenic overlook, but we get why some people may be hesitant. The fact is, road trips can be super stressful if you’re new to this type of adventuring. Allow us to give you some tips to make the whole process a little more ~chill~ and enjoyable for everyone!
(image via: the manual)
What’s the point? This should be the first question you discuss with everyone that will be taking this journey with you. Have you gathered a gaggle of foodies that are going to be all about the restaurant scene along the way? Maybe independent bookstores are loved by everyone, or local coffee shops, or haunted hotels; whatever the case may be, figure out why everyone is going and what you hope to take from your travels.
To save some cash while you’re on your trip, never buy food at a gas station (we know, it seems like part of the fun) but we promise you’ll get a lot more bang for your buck at a grocery store. Plus, depending on how far you’re going, you’ll probably get to check out new grocery stores and we promise you it’s more fun than it sounds.
It’s not just about the destination, it’s also about the journey. And by this, we mean that sitting in a car for hours can be heckin’ boring, so do your research and see where you can stop along the way and see some cool stuff, then get with your group and see where everyone wants to stop. This will break up the monotony, allow for ample bathroom breaks and leg stretching breaks, plus, you’ll get the chance to make even more memories.
(image via: forbes)
Kind of a no-brainer, but whatever car you’re taking should be thoroughly inspected before you hit the open road.
Never pass up the opportunity to ask locals what you should check out, we promise, this is how you’ll find some of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants, shops, sights, you name it.
When packing, make sure to leave a little room for the inevitable souvenir buying you will be doing. We aren’t saying you’ll nab something everywhere you stop, but the chances of coming home with a few more t-shirts than you left with are very high.
(image via: loco gringo)
Carry some cash with you. Yeah, yeah, yeah, we’re all spoiled and very used to just swiping our cards, but technology is only great when it works and we don’t know about you, but we’ve experienced the panic of a card machine being down or our card, for whatever reason, not swiping, not to mention unexpected tolls. So make sure to stash a little cash in your car and also in your wallet.
If you have the opportunity to get gas, do it. Top ‘er off every time. You’ll be glad you did when you’re on a long stretch of road with no stops and a full tank of gas.
Let your bank know where you’ll be heading. Not because they’re nosey or that they really care, but the last thing you want is your bank to think someone stole your info and to lock your card. Again, this is why we carry emergency cash, but letting your bank know you’re bumpin’ outta town will guarantee you won’t have to make any panic calls to your bank.