The sun is out and the birds are chirping, you know what that means! It's time to pack those bags and hop in the car for a road trip but first there are a few things you need to remember.

Bring a friend.

It's always nice to have someone with you to control the music and make sure you are staying awake and hydrated as well as taking a shift behind the wheel and of course, cop watch.

Have a sick playlist.

Yes, the radio can be fun to listen to, it can also be very frustrating to listen to the same commercials and songs over and over again. Burn some CDs, or create a playlist on your iPod before you leave.

Bring a map.

Even though you probably don’t know how to use one because your phone and car are both equip with a GPS, it might be fun to try and find your way with a piece of paper. If all else fails it will make a totally rad Instagram post.

Plan your bathroom breaks ahead of time.

If you plan when you are going to take a break you won't end up stopping every time someone needs to use the bathroom. This way everyone can plan how much water they consume between each stop.

Have snacks that are easily munched on while driving.

Chips, trail mix, or baby carrots are the way to go or even a sandwich. The last thing you want to try to do is eat some pasta while driving 75 mph.

Have a change of clothes handy.

When you are eating and in the car there is bound to be a spill. Also, just sitting in the same clothes for more then 8 hours can get a little suffocating.

Keep extra water bottles in the car.

You never know what can happen and the last thing you want is to be stuck in the middle of nowhere without water.

Always have one phone charged in case of an emergency.

Checking your Instagram is not an emergency.

Now, you're ready to hit the road and remember -- sometimes it's about the journey, not the destination.