A Look Inside: Summer Road Trip

Photo: Fairway

Today is the beginning of my summer road trip!
& I am super excited!

4 friends. 400 miles. 2 concerts. 3 states.
We are going to drive from Chicago to my college, to visit some of my school friends and to see Fall Out Boy in concert. Nothing seems more exciting than driving with friends, listening to music, and navigating the country roads together!

But before we, or you, start your road trip there are some important things to remember to do...

1. Directions
It sounds simple, but know where you are going. Make sure you look up how to get to your destination and possibly find an alternative route. Smart phones and GPS's are wonderful tools that also help make this easier.

2. Timing
Not only should you plan how you're getting to your destination, you should have an approximate idea how long your journey is going to take you. Remember to also leave some additional time to make pit stops, food stops, and random stops!

3. Flexible Packing
All your stuff has to fit comfortably in your vehicle, along with all of you. Remember that even though you have the space to pack more than with traveling on an airplane, you still need to be conscious of the shared space. Be aware of what you are planning to do during your trip! You should have outfits for every adventure you want to tackle.

4. Destinations?
While you may have a single ultimate destination, keep in mind all the new and interesting places that you'll pass along the way. Research the locations you will drive through and keep your eyes open on the road for attractions.

5. Entertainment
But most importantly - have stuff to entertain yourself during the drive! The most important and exciting part of a road trip is spending time with your companions! Make fun playlists, eat tons of junk food, take lots of pictures, spend hours talking, and just have fun! Each one of us created a playlist that we plan to sing along too during our drive. We also spent a previous day baking and shopping for food we could take along with us.

With all that in mind, enjoy your own road trip and have fun! I'll let you all know how my trip went, but in the mean time have a good week everybody and stay happy!

P.S.  Some last minute tips for the first time road trippers:
- Take turns driving
- Use the bathroom when you can
- Have a paper map
- Save money where you can
- Choose your friends wisely