Use an expandable file to plan your trip – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

In preparation for a recent trip, we compiled 10 day’s worth of information on accommodations and attractions, maps, directions, and other paperwork.

I purchased a plastic, expandable folder with 10 slots, then labeled each with one day/date of the trip. Into each day’s section went everything we needed: maps, directions, confirmation numbers, hours and costs of museums and attractions, etc.

If we ran into a delay or found ourselves a day ahead of schedule, it was easy to move the pile to a new slot.

Bonus: Receipts and souvenirs readily replace used maps and directions, ready to remember a great trip!

[Photo: Flickr | BLW Photography]

Everyone gets a daily “stop” card – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

On a road trip, you just can’t stop everywhere that looks interesting or fun. And of course, what would appeal to an 8-year-old girl might lead to the eye-rolling of a 14-year-old boy. An easy solution: every family member gets a “stop” card daily.

No questions asked, no arguments — if a family member pulls out their “stop” card, the whole family stops. You can put a cap on cost ahead of time, and no complaining allowed as each gets a turn.

It’s fair, fun and very interesting to see the type of stopping points chosen.

[Photo: Flickr | Rich Anderson]

Jog at rest stops – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

When you pull into a rest stop to refresh, include a 3-5 minute jog or brisk walk.

It helps relieve the stiffness from sitting in the car and gets the blood pumping. It also provides children an opportunity to run and scream.

When you finish, do a quick stretch. Now you can be awake and alert for the road.

[Photo: Flickr | MikeBaird]

Visit small-town bars – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

One of our favorite aspects of road tripping is building in time to go “off route” to small town bars.

No matter how small, most towns have a townie bar. Walk in, count the number of heads that swivel around and stare until you pick a seat. Choose a seat at the bar and let the heads turn back to their normal position while conversation returns to local gossip.

Your benefit from a trip to a small town bar: a cold brew break and a slice of Americana right before your eyes.

[Photo: Flickr | Darwin Bell]