Do you ever get the urge to just pack your things and get away for the weekend? To drive so far that you no longer recognize the roads or the scenery that surrounds you? Maybe you just need a break from the overwhelming atmosphere at school; or maybe, you have an adventurous soul and the only place you feel at home is in the middle of nowhere, cruising down the open roads. Whatever your reason, road trips are truly necessary aspects of life.
Driving for hours on end is like therapy for me. And although I don’t understand why, I know some of you cringe at the thought of long car rides. Let me just say this: if you hate road trips, you are doing them wrong. Yes, you heard me. Just like there are certain items you must bring to the beach to have the perfect beach day, there are most definitely things that are essential to a fantastic road trip. If you’re wondering what those things are, you’ve come to the right place; just keep reading!
The 5 essential things to bring with you on a road trip:
1. Water bottle & healthy snacks
Bringing along healthy snacks will help you from having to stop on the way to your destination and spend money on junk food! My favorites are nuts and seeds, but fruit is also a good option! Also, having a snack to munch on will distract you and keep you busy during the drive. I like to bring a refillable water bottle along with me instead of buying a bottled water. Not only does that save me from stopping and spending money as well, but I’m also able to keep refilling my water bottle throughout the day and at the destination. Plus, making sure you’re drinking water during the drive will stop you from overindulging in snacks!
2. Sunglasses
Okay, whether I’m on a road trip or just driving to the grocery store, sunglasses are a must for me. They’re especially essential during a long drive though because eventually without them, your eyes will start to get heavy from the sun and you’ll find yourself getting really sleepy really quick!
3. Sneakers
This one’s kind of more of a preference thing, however I truly think wearing sneakers on a long drive is more comfortable than wearing open toed shoes! Mainly because my mom always told me to wear closed toed shoes while driving far distances and we all have those weird things we were taught growing up that stick, lol. So, this is pretty much one of them. However, if you’re someone who’s feet get cold easily like mine do, sneakers stop this from happening!
4. Good playlist & aux cord
A good playlist is so important. You want something that’s going to keep you engaged and alert, not just something to play in the background. Think of songs that make you want to sing along! Having an aux cord that both allows you to play your own music and charge your phone is the best option. If you’re someone who gets bored easily, try podcasts! My favorites are Modern Love, Radio Lab, and TedTalks.
5. Journal
Finally, it’s so beneficial to bring along a journal. Documenting pictures, thoughts, ideas, memories, and really anything at all! You never know how much of a trip you’re going to remember and what you might forget, so journaling throughout is always smart. Plus, it’s fun to look back at old entries and remember how you felt in particular moments.