Road Trips: 5 tricks & tips + 3 Essentials

I recently went on an amazing road trip with my mom and grandma. We had a great time, and I wanted to share some of the things that made it that way! These can either be fun, or a driving nightmare. So let's get down to the tips and tricks that made it such a great time.

1. Pick a really fun group to go with 

My mom is such a relaxed person that doesn't get upset by little things, and my 82 year old grandma is always up for anything. Have a group of people whose personalities mesh, and who will be up for the same sorts of activities.

2. Don't be afraid to make unintended stops 

Here we went blueberry picking and had a great time, plus healthy snacks the rest of the trip and a nice treat to give our hosts each place we went. 

3. Try to plan your trip around places you have friends and family living.

"Gnomicile" is the gorgeous mountain home my in-laws own. It was so great to see my mother-in-law, plus we saved money. It's a win-win!

4. Don't be afraid to be flexible and change plans 

We ended up deciding during the trip to visit Newport along the Oregon coast and take the  scenic byway on the ocean, and it was by far one of the best drives we had. 

5. Slow down and Enjoy the little things

On a fast and furious road trip like ours, it's easy to get into driving mode and always being on the go. However it's important to slow down and be in the moment wherever you are, and not be thinking about the next place or the hours of driving ahead. 

Road tripping essentials:

1. Have a general map of where you're going and when, both for your host families and for your family at home in case of emergency 

2. Wear your seatbelt. Why are people still not doing this?? It could save your life.

3. Do not text, get on social media, or play games (Pokemon!) while driving. Some studies have shown that it's just as impairing behind the wheel as drinking.

Check back this week for travel blogs on specific stops! :)