With spring break just around the corner, it’s time to start planning. There is nothing like hitting the road with friends or family on a quest to get to the ultimate vacation spot, but a lot of planning needs to be done before you get in your car and take off. To make traveling easier, follow these eight road trip hacks that are guaranteed to make the perfect trip:
1. Make a plan ahead of time. Since most roadtrippers have a timeline for when they would like to arrive at their vacation destination, it is smart to plan which cities you will be staying at each night. Also, plan out how many hours you will be driving each day. Do not to exceed more than eight hours per day.
2. Pack light. There will be plenty of things you may want to buy when you arrive at your destination. Wouldn’t it be a bummer if you could not fit your new items in your car? Packing light also gives everyone in the car more space while driving.
3. Don’t pack a lot of electronics. Yes, road trips can get boring , but they are an adventure in themselves. Put away your myriad of devices and stay in the moment. Talk with the people in your car, point out scenery, listen to music, or make up games. You’ll soak in the sights around you much better without electronic distractions.
4. Leave early or at night. This one mainly applies to those travelling with children. Children can get antsy in a car for long periods of time. Leaving extra early in the morning or late at night helps children sleep for most of the ride.
5. Ask a local where to eat. It is hard to know where to eat in unfamiliar territory. That is why it is always best to ask a local where to eat when you enter a new town. The locals will most likely their favorite place and can give much better advice than a website or guidebook.
6. Take pictures. Do’nt just take pictures and selfies for your social media accounts, take them to remember the experience. Take them during every part of your road trip. Even though you are not at your vacation spot when you are driving, the road trip is just as much a part of your vacation as the actual vacation spot - document the moments.
7. Embrace the gas station. A road trip requires you to stop at numerous gas stations. Do not dread the stop, embrace it. Check if the station has your favorite snack or a ice cream. See who can find the best out-of-state gas station knick-knacks. Try to make stopping at the gas station a positive experience rather than a negative experience.
8. Be safe. As we have already said, do not drive past eight hours per day. You want to stay fresh and alert while driving. Don’t forget to bring healthy snacks, pull over if you feel tired, and bring a first aid kit in case of injuries. Being prepared will be the best tool to keep you safe during your road trip.
The most important tip of all for spring break road trips is to have fun! If you plan ahead of time and remember these tips, you will have a much more enjoyable trip. Safe travels!
