One day a friend of yours calls you and asks if you want to go on a trip with him. You say yes, pack your bags with excitement, and then ask your friend which vehicle you will travel by. If he tells you that you will go by car, you better be ready.
Steps
Step 1. Make lists a week or two before your trip
List what will go in your suitcase and make another list of things you will need to do before the trip. This can include getting the car tuned up, or washing / waxing / cleaning the car. This will help you to be less stressed as everything is written on paper, and you will be less likely to forget something.
Step 2. Pack your suitcase a couple of days before your trip
This gives you time to think about adding or deleting things, and will generally make you less stressed before the trip.
Step 3. Prepare a bag to carry by hand
This may contain some books, portable games, mp3 players, laptops, DVDs if the car has a DVD player, etc., non-perishable snacks (such as granola bars and biscuits), and drinks if you have a cooler bag. Remember that if you bring fizzy drinks, they may lose the fizz.
Step 4. Make sure you have everything you need, including things to entertain yourself or small children
If you have a portable DVD player, make sure everything is ready in the car the night before, so you'll save time.
Step 5. Wear something comfortable
Under normal clothes, wear something comfortable (even pajamas). You don't want to be uncomfortable for the duration of a long drive.
Step 6. Bring a large enough bag
You don't want to put all your carry-on baggage in your handbag.
Step 7. Choose your seat once you are in the car
Try not to stand behind someone who is known to extend the seat backwards. Staying by the window is generally a good choice, so you can open up if you need some air and you can see the scenery while traveling.
Step 8. Check everything one last time before you leave
Make sure everyone has used the bathroom, has money for gas, there is something for in-car entertainment, and hasn't forgotten anything in the house.
Step 9. Drive to your destination
Select the location in on the GPS system if you have one. Stop at roadside gas stations to eat and use the restroom.
Step 10. Make sure you have booked your hotel 2 or 3 days before reaching your destination to ensure availability
Step 11. Bring the tires for the trip
Tires are always on everyone's lists, they calm you down and make you bored less.
Advice
- Be sure to charge your iPad, iPhone, DS, Game Boy, and all other electronic devices before your trip.
- Remember to bring a large bag or two for trash and / or laundry.
- If you're not driving, bring plenty of pillows and blankets. They make a great nest for sleeping or reading in total privacy.
- If the car is full, try not to be near someone who is bothering you.
- If you're traveling for a long time, bring a bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated.
- In case there is a breakdown or accident, bring blankets, flashlights, a first aid kit including painkillers, and drinking water.
- Healthy food is key, but that doesn't mean sweets. Bring a couple of candy or cookie tupperware, or make a special dessert stop. This stop gives you a destination to reach, in addition to your destination.
- If you bring movies, bring ones that everyone might like.
- If you are driving, bring another adult and take turns judging.
- See talking with other passengers as a means of entertainment, even as an alternative to electronic devices.
- Play fun games in the car.
- It might be wise to bring an energy drink as well.
Warnings
- If you're prone to motion sickness, grab a travel tablet before you leave, and keep the pack in your bag just in case. Even those who don't suffer from travel can feel nauseous at times.
- Check the car a couple of days before you leave, so you don't have to worry about a breakdown on the way.
