My favorite type of adventure is road trips!! I am currently on one with two of my friends. It is truly a bonding experience... missing exits, going the wrong way, watching the sunsets through the car windows, taking pictures, cranking up the tunes and enjoying the journey and eventually the destination. Here is my own suggested list to keep in mind on your next road trip.
1. You can't go wrong with spontaneity, but planning ahead is lit.
When you plan ahead, you can add in little details and can often do more in a shorter amount of time. Don't get me wrong, please don't schedule to the minute. Enjoy the time, no need to overdo it.
2. Don't ever forget the AUX!!
This is absolute priority. Like don't even bother leaving without it. Being able to rock out to all the music that you're feeling is the way to go! If you're looking to pump up the jams, or listen to the song that hits ya right in the feels, either is available at the tips of your fingertips.
3. Work within the budget. No shame.
As a "poor working college student", counting pennies is too common. But then again we are all in this together. You can always have a great trip within what your wallet can manage. Don't panic, just be smart. Instead of going out to eat every meal, go buy food at the market. you would be surprised how little things help.
4. Expand your horizons.
Don't limit yourself to the same old trip. If you tend to be drawn to the beach, go to a quarry! Go cliff jumping; buy an inner tube and float while soaking up the sun!
5. Invite the right people.
Some people just don't understand the enjoyment of a road trip. Find people with exciting attitudes who will go with the flow of the journey. Some great memories are created and many laughs are shared.
6. Pictures are priority.
I don't know about you, but I have always loved to look back at all the pictures from great trips. I already know most people love to take pictures, including myself, so no need to expand on this subject.
7. Live in the moment.
That said, pictures are great and all, but don't be stuck on your phone. Enjoy the experience. I don't wanna miss the little things, and instead just have all of my social media feeds memorized. Don't play that game; it's honestly silly.
8. Safety first.
Be aware of your surroundings. Stay together and watch each others' backs. Don't be so caught up in the fun stuff that you don't remember the reality of bad people in this world. Also, buckle up in the car. Don't risk your life.
9. Have real conversations.
My friends and I stayed up for hours on hours, talking about pretty much every possible topic you could thing of. A lot of that involves things that matter, like what is happening in our world today. Those are the conversations that you will remember.
10. Make the most of your time together.
The trips are fun and the sightseeing is exciting, but the people and the relationships are truly the most important. RTB4L(Road Trip Buddies 4 Life)!! ...yes I did just say that. Only the people on the trip will ever have shared that experience with you.
