Taking a road trip may seem like a fun and exhilarating experience. However, it isn’t just about the fun in the road trip. Most people plan road trips to experience the world at first hand. By meeting new people, experiencing different cultures, and learning to problem solve from mistakes and accidents that weren’t expected to happen, you can gain life-changing skills. Everyone should take a road trip at some point in their lives. Here are the top tips to help you plan your next trip!
Make a Plan
I know what you’re thinking–“Isn’t the point of a road trip to be spontaneous and just let life happen?” Yes and no. You need to make sure you’re planning ahead and researching places you want to see and things you want to do. You don’t just want to hop in a car and drive across the country. In that case, all you’re going to see is the fastest route to the other side of the United States (aka the highway). First, decide how much time you want to spend on your road trip. Maybe you’re unemployed so now is the best time to go and take your time. Or maybe you only have two weeks to get to your destination and back. Once you decide how much time you’re allowing yourself on your road trip, it will be easier to make frequent stops at places you want to see. This may also take up more driving time, but hey, isn’t the point of a road trip to be on the road anyway?
Meet People, See Stuff
One of the worst things you can do on a road trip is not getting out and talking to people. No. Don’t pick up strangers on the side of the road. I mean talk to people who are doing the same activities as you. There are plenty of apps that can help you meet people that are on journeys just like you, such as meetup. It’s also just as important to get out of your car and experience the different cultures of wherever your stops are. For example, Baton Rouge has a great french influence, that’ll make you think you’re in a whole different world. While the whole state of California has a different influence depending on which city you go to. The point of a road trip is to see what’s out there in the world, while not being afraid of trying new things and meeting new people. You’re going to come back completely amazed with a different perspective on life in general.
Plan for Emergencies
Not to be a nagging parent here, but seriously- be prepared for emergencies. Yes, expect your car to break down, run out of gas, have no hotel for one night. Expect it all, but be able to accept it. Things happen. The important thing is to have a positive attitude and know that you have nothing to worry about because you already planned ahead for the situation to happen. No, you can’t plan ahead for everything, but simply budgeting money out for more than you actually think you’ll need is a great way to plan for an emergency. Remember, a road trip is all about learning from your mistakes and finding yourself. Planning ahead doesn’t mean you’re not spontaneous, it just means you’re being responsible.