This previous weekend I went on a road trip to Atlanta for a conference involving my major. Being stuck in the car with four of my classmates (and favorite friends) was predicted to be an adventure. If you or anyone you know is looking to go on a travelling adventure soon, here are some do's and dont's of road tripping.
DO research where you are going.
Knowing where you are going and what path you will take can be very beneficial. It is important to know the destination you want to reach so that you are able to plan all of the sights you want to see when you get there. But it is also important to know the path you are taking to reach your destination. There are some pretty cool things just off the side of the highway, like a giant ball of yarn. Just allow yourself to be open-minded and experience all you can.
DO have an open mind about other passengers' music choices.
I've been on a five-day road trip from North Carolina to California. Being stuck in a car for twelve hours only allows you to basically sleep or listen to music. My family and I would take turns with who was in charge of the iPod, and every person got a chance to pick three songs of his or her choice. It allowed everyone to be able to listen to what they wanted to, instead of only one person making all of the music decisions.
DO offer to pay for gas.
This is key, especially when riding with your friends. Don't be that person that pretends to fall asleep while the driver stops for gas. Chip in, pay your share, and don't be a cheapskate. And if you don't want to pay for gas, at least offer to pay for the snacks.
DON'T fall asleep while in the passenger seat.
On long road trips, I am sure that we are all guilty of this. But in reality, being the one in the passenger seat is the most important job. You have the responsibility of giving directions, choosing the music, and (the most important task) keeping the driver awake. Taking long naps in the front seat is not a cool move.
DON'T eat something you'll regret the night before.
If your road trip team is on a time crunch, don't make them stop every thirty minutes because your Chinese food from the night before didn't settle well in your stomach. Do I need to say more?
DON'T forget to safety check you car the day before.
Make sure all the tires have enough air, that the brake system is working, and that the check engine light isn't on. The last thing you want is to be stuck on the side of the highway at dusk due to your car battery dying. That's basically the opening scene of every horror movie.
What road trip tips do you have?
