Helpful Tips and How To's

Planning A Roadtrip

Roadtrips are iconic; they’ve inspired several movies, books, songs, etc. But most importantly, they’ve inspired thousands, millions of people to make unforgettable memories.

Roadtrips are a summer classic for my friends and me. They’re a tradition in my family. However, they are very difficult to plan and can result in disappointment if you’re not careful.

Here’s how to make sure your roadtrip goes as smoothly as possible:

STEP 1: PICKING A DESTINATION AND ROADTRIP COMPANIONS

How to pick your companions: try to invite only one group of friends so that no one ends up feeling left out. Boyfriends, girlfriends and other significant others tend to change group dynamics; personally, I prefer to keep them out. Siblings can be fun if they mesh well with the group, but proceed with caution (age, maturity level, needs, personality, etc.).

How to pick your destination: Destinations aren’t really all that important. You guys will have fun no matter what. However, the destination has to become a motivating factor for the group. Pick a destination that will ensure that even your flakiest friends end up coming. Your friends will be drawn to the roadtrip because of the company, but they will get excited about it because of your destination.

The key to this step is gathering a pack of friends that meshes well and that will be motivated to go on a fun roadtrip!

STEP 2: FIGURING OUT THE LOGISITICS

Car, bus or train? Camping or motel?

All can be fun! Just make sure of the rules in your area. Making a reservation at a motel isn’t much use if you’re not old enough to rent it. Camping grounds usually have similar rules.

Possible alternatives if you’re too young to rent anything: sleeping in the car, sleeping in an RV at Wal-Mart, staying over with someone you know (even if it’s to pitch a tent in the backyard), getting a parent to call for you, inviting an older friend…

Other alternatives: hostels, house rentals (especially worth a try if you’re a big group, in which case it’s actually cheaper)

If you’re driving, try not to switch drivers, unless they’re all insured on the vehicule.

STEP 3: TALKING WITH AN ADULT YOU TRUST

Whatever your age, if you’re not an experienced roadtripper, this is the point where you should have a talk with someone to make sure your plan makes sense. You might find out extra laws in your area that might change your plans a bit, or you might get extra tips.

STEP 4: EARLY PREPARATIONS

This is the step in which you make sure you have the necessary papers: passports if you’re crossing borders, drivers’ licenses, IDs, etc. If your parents (or one of your friends’ parents) are with the AAA (USA) or CAA (Canada) or a similar organisation, you might want to ask if you can be put on their account. That free towing might come in handy!