This weekend, my daughter and I are getting ready to take a road trip through a few countries. That’s the great thing about living in Europe, how small and close countries are to each other. What do you define as a “road trip”? For me, anything longer than 8 hours constitutes a road trip. 🙂 I LOVE road trips. Throughout my childhood, my family took TONS of them, and I looked forward to them every time. Of course not all of our road trips went smoothly. I mean, my brother got carsick, we would get lost, tire would blowout, etc., but let’s not focus on the negative. 😉 As we prepare for our trip, here are some things that I have learned on my many road trips and tips on how you can get the most out of your next one.

#1. Plan your route thoroughly first. Look at various routes and take into account tolls, construction and traffic.

#2. Have cash on hand. Stop by the ATM and make sure to have money handy. I usually have enough to fill up my car just in case the gas station doesn’t take credit card or I encounter an unexpected toll or parking spot.

#3. Pack a pillow! Don’t know about you, but long car journeys make me want to nap! Sleeping against the window is NOT comfy, so packing a pillow or blanket will make your journey more comfy.

#4. No matter what type of road trip you’re on, pack comfy shoes! For example, flip flops or walking boots will come in incredibly handy if you have to hike a little away from the road for a bathroom stop.

#5. Pack a mobile phone charger! Mobile phone batteries die so quickly nowadays.

#6. Bring bottle waters and other favorite drinks before you hit the road. Not all gas stations sell beverages, and then there is that problem about finding a place to buy something to drink when you are thirsty. 😉

#7. Pack healthy snacks! There are always plenty of places to stop for fast food, but you’ll soon discover yourself craving something a little more nutritious like granola bars, fruit, sandwiches, nuts, etc.

#8. Do most of the driving in the early morning and afternoon, so you don’t get too tired, it’s just not worth the risk! I try to begin driving before 8AM when most people are still drinking their first cup of coffee.

Am I missing any tips? Where have you taken a road trip?