Road trips weren’t exactly top of my list for 2020 summer getaways. Sure, I love a weekend lake trip here and there, but this summer, road trips will be our vacay bread and butter. It’s better than catching COVID, so I’ll take what I can get.
I feel like this is the first time in years I have reason to explore my own beautiful British Columbian backyard — and I’m actually pretty stoked. BC has some of the world’s prettiest scenery, including oceans, lakes, mountains, rain forests, and deserts. So, whether you’re roughing it in a remote forest somewhere or checking out world-class resort towns, there’s something for everyone.
Getting there
The only issue I have with road trips is the road part. Call me crazy, but sitting in a car for a few consecutive hours feels a little stifling. I have the bladder and ability-to-stay-still of a small child. Meanwhile, my back and neck are that of an elderly woman. Terrible combo.
These tips for a smooth ride will help you get to your destination fresh and sane.
Stay satisfied
Hydration is key. But what else is new? Realize that your water intake needs to be doubled.
Road trip snacks are essential, but they go quickly. To avoid scarfing multiple bags of chips, I opt for Spitz. They curb my salt cravings and keep me busy for a while.
Avoid stopping for salty, sugary, fast food meals. You’ll be crashing and cranky in no time. Eat well before you hit the road, and pack a sizeable snack that actually provides nutrition to keep your blood sugar balanced. Sandwiches or wraps are a great way to get protein and veggies in you, but if you’re not that prepared grabbing some hummus and carrot sticks will work too.
Plot out your stops
Even if you have the physical and mental ability to bomb to your destination, stop to smell the roses. Recently, Alex and I have been trying to jet off the highway to check out a bakery or landmark that we usually just zoom past.
You’ve been drinking a ton of water, so figure out where you can stop before you’re hunched over an outhouse at a truck stop. Or worse, hiding behind the car door in a full squat trying not to pee on your own ankles as cars whiz past at 120 km/h.
When you get out of the car, give your legs some nice slow, deep stretches. I love taking in a few deep cleansing breaths of mountain air and rolling out my head and shoulders. It seems so simple, but it makes a world of difference.
It’s about the journey, not the destination, right?
Stay entertained
I love music. But, I hate music on long road trips. Weird right? I find it frustrating when a one-hour playlist ends and you still have another three hours to go, it somehow makes time last longer.
However, I love podcasts and books on tape. You can check out my favourite podcasts here, and for books on tape, you can basically find anything on Audible.
I’m not a total psychopath and will listen to music for the last hour or so when the end is in sight!
Connect
This may seem cheesy, but hey, I’m in love and really look forward to the one-on-one time with Alex. Most of the time we’re tackling life together, so the uninterrupted time to chat about life, and goals, and memories is really cherished.
On the rare occasion I’m driving alone, I find it’s a great time to catch up with friends from out of town. When I’m not distracted by texts, work, or household chores this can be an amazing time for a call.
Reflect
Another thing I’ve started doing is using the time to reflect on all aspects of my life. It’s a great time to notice what’s important and what I’m grateful for. And the adverse.
Hmm, I may actually enjoy this unplugged time stifled in the car more than I originally thought.
After all, when else would I get that sort of quiet time?
You might also like
