This is Part II of ‘Avoid a Bumpy Road Trip with These Tips.’ My trip to Northern California was an experience. At one point, I felt like I was on a wild goose chase! All-in-all the trip was a success. My creativity was renewed, and I learned a lot about myself and some lessons along the way.
Road trips can be more than driving to places and visiting the sites. You may end up on a journey to self-discovery that you didn’t plan. The lessons that you learn along the way could shine some light on questions you wanted answered. Perhaps you discover that what you were seeking was already in your backyard.
Tips and Tricks
- Bring snacks and water with you for your road trip. Carrying water is essential. You can stock up on power bars, dried fruit, jerky, or other snacks to keep your energy levels high. Don’t forget about vitamins. One a day can keep you on the move;
- Make sure you dress in comfortable, loose clothes. Don’t wear clothes that bind you because if you begin to sweat (depending on where you’re at), you may feel like you can’t move. This will make your road trip unbearable;
- If you’re not on a freeway, turn off the A/C and open the windows. Ok, ‘essence of road work’ and manure doesn’t smell that great. But, blooming flowers and fruit trees smell great. You’d be surprised how ‘sweet’ nature can be and smell;
- Travel with an open mind. Enjoy the ride and don’t worry so much about getting there. This can be easier said than done when you’re a ‘lone’ driver. That’s why it’s essential to take as many breaks as you need. You’ll feel rejuvenated and ready to drive;
- When in doubt, leave it out. Believe it or not, you can buy toothbrushes and toothpaste. If you forget to pack something, don’t fret about it. Have fun shopping in a new area. You never know what little ‘gems’ you’ll find along the way;
- Expect the unexpected. Yep, you never know what will happen on your road trip. Instead of panicking or getting upset, take a deep breath and get some clarity. Life is an adventure, just go with the flow. You’ll find your way soon enough. I found this out first hand. I took a couple of detours while I was in Northern California, but I made it back to AZ!
If you’re planning a road trip, review these tips and tricks. If you’re driving alone, good luck! Sometimes it’s necessary to take a trip alone, but it can be lonely and hard on the body. Traveling with a friend can be fun, plus you share the driving. Just make sure you and your friend travel well together. Have a great drive!
~Rebecca
What advice do you have to make a road trip more enjoyable?
Definitely some good advice. Another would be: drive a comfortable car. I thought I had a good one for a 6 hour drive, but it became very uncomfortable after the 2nd hour…my back was killing me by the time we arrived.
Great article. Definitely agree that a comfortable car is necessary. It helps if you have more than one driver. Of course, an RV would really be comfortable :)
Rebecca I meant to tell you on Monday what a great post this is – I just got home from three days on the road and your advice is right on!
@Chinamatt – SO true! I will never again buy a car without taking it for a test weekend and really driving it for at least a few hours in one trip…..I learned so much from my last car about what I DON’T like, and comfort is now my top priority (along with drink cup holders – they have to be just right – I hate when they are inconveniently placed or not large enough (or too large) for the drinks I regularly put in them)…..
Thanks Trisha…Thanks Chinamatt…
I learned a lot from my trip to Northern California. I’m grateful that it was only 12 hours, unlike my first road trip in 2007 — driving from OH to AZ. I still can’t believe I drove over 2,000 miles.
I think if I drove by myself again, I’d have to rent a big SUV :) Of course, an RV is probably comfortable. Greyhound’s slogan “Leave the driving to us” makes sense.