3 mistakes to avoid on your next road trip
Much of my early twenties was spent traveling as much as possible (or as much as I could afford to, anyway).
During those years I’ve made plenty of good decisions. Some great decisions. And, well… some not-so-good decisions.
Luckily for you, I am here to share my experience in hopes that your next adventure goes as smoothly as possible.
Here are three things you should avoid the next time you hit the road.
1. Only taking the interstate
Don’t get me wrong, interstates are great and all if you need to get to one place as quick as possible.
But, if you’re anything like me, you like to stop and smell the flowers (as they say).
There is no better way to do that then venturing off the main route. Not only is this usually more scenic, but you’ll most likely find more local restaurants and fun stops, adding to your vault of memories.
You’ll also have a higher chance of running into the locals at your pit stops. Striking up a conversation with them can point you in the right direction of the best restaurant in town or hidden gems you would’ve otherwise missed.
2. Not bringing a paper map
I know, I know. In what day and age do we need a paper map?
Hear me out.
Imagine cruising down the road, sun starting to set, music blaring, windows down, wind blowing through your hair. Not a worry in the world. Until, Karen (your phone GPS navigator) speaks the unimaginable: “Connection Lost.”
Oh no.
You’re in the middle of nowhere. Cornfields on your left, empty pastures on your right, and the sky counting down to darkness in front of you. A stop sign is approaching with three different directions you can choose. Karen is still recalculating.
Jeopardy music ensues.
Then, you remember! The trusty paper map in the glove compartment. You put on your hazards, pull to the side of the road and eventually find which route you are on. It ends up being easier than you could imagine because you even highlighted the route on your map before you left home in preparation for this very situation!
You turn right at the stop sign and the sun sets. Your anxiety soothes when Karen finally gains back her connection and validates that you made the right decision.
3. Overscheduling your trip
Honestly, I love scheduling and planning out a road trip to ensure I see as many awesome destinations as possible.
And while this is a great idea to avoid missing any cool spots, it’s also important to leave room for spontaneous side quests along your route.
It can be absolutely crushing to pass something eye-catching along your route and not have the time to stop and check it out. Some of my favorite memories while traveling were random, unplanned stops along the way to my main destination!
Having wiggle room in your schedule also compensates for emergencies, like a flat tire or realizing you’re dangerously low on snacks.
Bonus tip: DEFINITELY make sure you have an emergency car kit with you!
There you have it. Three big mistakes you should avoid on your next road trip.
While planning a trip can be stressful, you only get so much time so enjoy the moments that you have. Give yourself the opportunity to earn the memories you dream of having.
