Roadtrip Checklist

Chris and I are no strangers to roadtrips. Back when we were dating long-distance, we both made the 16 hour trek from Portland to LA numerous times. LA to Vegas, to San Francisco, to San Diego...it's always been a mix of fun, exhaustion, and countless snacks and games to pass the time.

So how do you make a roadtrip feel more like the vacation, and less like a means to get to a vacation? I've put together a few helpful tips and suggestions to make your next journey on the road EPIC! Or at least help pass the time ;)


1. Snacks. The first thing I think of for a roadtrip is what kind of food do I want to bring along. Of course, there is the junk food aspect, but honestly I like to binge on homemade goodies rather than the traditional junkfood. One of my all-time favorite snacks for a roadtrip are these delicious trail mix bars (recipe here).

2. GPS. Remember life before GPS? Yea me neither because I blocked out that horrible time in my life. I have without a doubt the world's worst sense of direction. I'm always amazed by people like my brother-in-law Bryan and best friend Kathleen who can literally be dropped in a new city and find their way around with no GPS. I swear, it's a super power.

3. Pillows and PJs! There's something about being on a roadtrip that just makes you think pjs in public are ok. And if it's not, then it should be. Your living out of your car for Pete's sake! Plus, you might take turns sleeping, and what's more comforting than your own pillow and favorite pajamas?!

4. Playlist. Every good roadtrip needs it's own sound track whether you're with your girls, your hubby, or the whole family. The right music will put everyone at ease and set the tone for the trip. Country favorites, N'sync on repeat, Techno, Oldies....anything that suits your fancy :)

5. Car Games. I know what your thinking, and yes sometimes car games are cheesy. But depending on who you are with, and which ones you choose, you can end up having a great time. Our favorite is the Movie Line Game. One person quotes a line from the movie, and the other passenger(s) have 3 guesses to name the movie. If they need a clue, they can turn in one of their guesses for a hint. It's really fun, and we've also used the game for TV shows too!

6. Coffee. Chances are you'll be driving for awhile, possibly late into the night. There's nothing like stopping at a kitschy coffee shop along the way to get your caffeine fix! It'll perk you up, and it always feels like a treat getting coffee on the road.

8. Pitstops. I like to look up different places along the route before leaving on the trip so you have fun mile markers to look forward to. Whether it's a scenic overlook, an outlet mall, or a great restaurant, something to break up the drive is always a good idea.

 Did you go on any fun roadtrips this fall/summer? What would you add to the list?