*Originally published on 7/15/09
Traveling by air can get pretty pricey. When you take that into account, and add in all the lines, waiting, possible delays, and other inconveniences, it wouldn't be too much of a stretch to say that once in a while, you're better off just driving. Flying has its benefits, for all of the annoyances, flying is quicker, but road trips can be fun if you prepare properly.
Now, first things first, use of the facilities is a must. You don't want to pull onto the interstate only to have to get off at the next exit for a bathroom break.
You do have one last chance, however, as it's recommended that you stop at a gas station before you really get on your way. This will allow you to fill the tank, use the restroom, and pick up snacks and beverages.
Snacks and beverages really help the drive go by quicker. Even if it's just a candy bar, it will sustain you for some time and it will make the drive more enjoyable. Most gas stations offer large bottles of various drinks and those are the ones I recommend you pick up. It's a mixed bag as they often don't quite fit in the cup-holder, but you can usually get it secure enough to ride around. This also gives you more beverage for your buck. It's vexing when you get thirsty and find yourself out of drinks.
If you're driving with someone else, take turns driving, this will allow the other person to take a break from driving and even get some sleep. With a rotating schedule, you can plow through the drive in one go as opposed to stopping off at a hotel. This is an endurance trial. If you're making a drive across the country, while it's possible to make it in one venture, sometimes it's refreshing to stop off at a motel and spend some time outside the car.
Music is a must. If you're driving through the country, you will find that radio stations come and go and there are times where you will get nothing but static. CD's are good, but if you have a car with a built in MP3 player or even an iPod hookup, this is the preferable option. It's especially true if you are driving alone as you no longer have to deal with the hassle of changing discs every hour. It's much safer as you don't have to take your eyes off the road as long.
If you have a second person with you, they can make a playlist and make sure that every song is a great one. If not, you can just put it on shuffle, although I find that with shuffle I find myself skipping a lot of songs looking for one that I want to listen to. It's not that big a deal, but it kind of defeats the purpose.
If you're, for some reason, not in the mood for music, audiobooks are great for long drives. If the drive is long enough, you can tear through the whole novel in one go. It's especially enjoyable when the book is really engrossing and manages to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Cruise control is your friend. While the passenger has more flexibility when it comes to adjusting their seat position, eliminating the need to keep your foot on the pedal makes it much easier. Without that restriction, you can move your legs around so that they don't cramp up as much.
If you are acting as passenger, utilize the advantage and move the seat as far back as possible to give yourself leg room. This also makes reclining more effective as you are closer to truly lying down.
If you have a GPS device, it helps a lot. With that, if you need to take a detour for whatever reason, the device will create a new route and set of directions where as with Mapquest directions, you have to fend for yourself if you want to get back on track.
Be sure to save up some money before you head out. The more financial resources you have, the more flexibility you have when it comes to meals, hotels, or just random shopping excursions. It is also better to pay cash for gas refills and food, as opposed to credit cards because those types of transactions add up. Splitting the cost between travelers is a great way to reduce the overall price.
You'll want to bring things to do. Even if it's just a book, you'll need something to help pass the time. A laptop is great as it gives you options. Don't expect internet service in the car (though some cars come with that now, which is awesome) but you can still do other things like play games to pass the time. If your car doesn't come with wi-fi, there are ways to use your cell's internet service on your computer.
Electronics stores sell adapters that plug into your cigarette lighter and give you electrical outlets. They're not terribly expensive, so they are definitely something worth looking into as you no longer have to worry about the battery life of your gadgets during the drive.
If you're going to stop for a meal, be sure to get out of the car. Even if you're just getting fast food, getting out of the car from time to time is refreshing and gives you a chance to stretch your legs and walk around. If you come by a restaurant that isn't in your local area, you should definitely take advantage and stop off at those restaurants.
In terms of stopping to see the sites, it's a tough call. A lot of times, the main factor is how well you're making time, so stopping off again and again gets in the way of that. On the other hand, if you don't stop and see things, then you just spend the entire drive...driving. While you shouldn't overdo it; it certainly wouldn't hurt to stop off once or twice to see a few things along the way.
While road trips are, no doubt, exhausting, they can be quite fun if you plan for it properly and head off prepared.
No comments:
Post a Comment