Road trips. Most people enjoy being jammed into a car, and flying down the open roads. Road trips are something that many families find pleasure in as they force the whole family to be under one same car roof. Where ever the trip may take you, there are some bumps that can be hard to avoid.

I go to college 2,000+ miles away. So twice a year, I head out on a long road trip. Now, don't get mad at me... but road trips aren't my favorite. Sure the beauty is great, and I love seeing how in different states the landscape changes, but at times- it can be miserable. Have you ever gotten super bloated on a road trip? How about stiff from sitting in one position? Maybe your sleep patterns are throwing you for a loop because of all the "resting" you are doing. Whatever may be the "issue" you deal with, there is a number of ways that can make your road trip even more enjoyable!

Here are my Top 5 Road Trip Tips that I do when on the road! These ALL help and play a HUGE role in feeling great when traveling! I could think of many more tips, and I am sure you could add to this list too. Why I only decided to include 5 is because these are the top ones that help me, and it can be easier to focus on a smaller amount. After starting to do these, I am really enjoying road trips more, and so is my body.

My 5 Road Trip Tips

1. HYDRATE

Yeah, I know. THE last thing you want to hear. I have heard so many people say that they don't drink or hydrate as much when traveling, so that they don't have to take as many rest stops. Ok, so I know where you are coming from. I have the same problem. I realized though, it is a price that is worth paying. Making sure you hydrate, and even go above and beyond your normal amount is going to help your body in numerous ways. You are going to feel more present, energized, and less bloated.

2. Get sleep

So many people love the fact that through the not-so-great parts of the road trip, they can just sleep. This is great, I mean I am all for rest, but too much can actually be a root cause to some problems. Do you ever hit a sluggish state when you are on a road trip? I know I do! One of the keys I have found, is to make sure you don't spend all of your time resting in the car. Make sure you are able to get a good nights rest once you hit a bed (at the time your body is used to). Making sure you sleep well is going to play a huge role in how your body feels.

3. Outside

This is my favorite way to make sure I am taking care of myself when traveling. Once I get to the hotel, if there is time, I like to put grass between my toes. Some people call this grounding, but for me, just the fact of being outside helps. It feels so good to walk around and spend some time breathing outside. Even if it is only for 15 minutes, you will notice the difference.

4. Fast Workout

Usually hotels have some sort of weight room. Make sure to take advantage of that! It is so good to get your heart pumping after you have been in the car all day. Sometimes it can be hard to squeeze in, so I like to wake up 15 minutes earlier to squeeze a fast workout, then do another fast workout at night when I get to the hotel. It makes you feel SO good. Look up "fast hotel workouts". They are my all time favorite when I don't want to go to the weight room.

5. Stretch

I think everyone can relate and agree with me on this one. When you are stuck in the car for a while, you get stiff. Best way to keep up your flexibility and well being is to stretch! Try stretching and getting out of the car every time you gas up and stop.

Those are my top five tips. What do you like to do when you are on a road trip? What helps keep your body feeling good, and your moral up? There are so many ways this can be done. Ready for your next road trip?