Road trips are an awesome way to travel! You get to experience the destination as well as all of the places on the way. And sometimes the journey is even better than the place you end in. I've recently returned from an 18 day road trip where I traveled all over the country as well as a bit of Canada. Beginning in Florida, I went to Massachusetts, then San Diego, California, then Ontario, Canada and back to Florida. It was an amazing adventure with many positives and some unfortunate negatives. After that extensive trip I'm pretty sure I've become quite the road trip expert. Here are some tips and tricks to ensuring a fun and stress-free road trip!

1. Have the vehicle you are taking inspected.

The last thing you want to be dealing with on your road trip is car trouble. Make sure the tires are in good shape and get an oil change if you haven't in a while. On my trip, we ran into a few problems that were not very fun to deal with. Let's just say no AC and summer heat do not mix well.

2. Bring a huge song playlist.

Road trips require music. It is pretty much the main source of entertainment in a car. Be sure to have a playlist full of all types of songs to keep everyone enthused. Songs to belt out, songs to dance to and even songs to just stare out the window to are all equally important.

3. Pack a variety of clothes for all types of weather.

Weather can be very unpredictable, especially if you are traveling far where there is a large possibility of a climate change. On my trip I played in the snow in the Rocky Mountains then tanned in California, three days later, in 90 degree weather. Both of these happened in flip flops as I was not prepared for the cold. You never know what you're in for so at least have a couple items that will keep you prepared for anything.

4. Travel in good company.

Being squished in a car for a long time can bring out some frustrations in people. Make sure you are with people you get along with the majority of the time. I don't suggest going on a roadtrip with someone who annoys you or who is easily angered. If a conflict emerges, it puts everyone in an uncomfortable and inescapable situation. Be sure to be with people who make you laugh and create a positive environment.

5. Keep snacks and drinks in stock at all times.

Snacking on a road trip is just about as crucial as the music. Being bored in a car results in hunger and road trips are good excuses to eat gas station junk food. Running out of snacks or drinks when you're hours away from your next stop is not fun. On my trip, I made sure to grab a water and a couple snacks at every stop whether I needed them at that moment or not. This kept my supply full and I never didn't have something I wanted to eat.

This advice would have and did save me from some unpleasant events. Follow it to make your road trip the best experience it can be!