It’s Road Trip Season! Here’s What I’ve Learned for an Epic Journey

As the warmer months approach, it’s time to hit the road for some unforgettable adventures. Trust me, you can minimize the bickering along the way.

Written by Jamie Thompson
Updated: Feb. 20, 2024
Originally Published: June 20, 2022

When I was younger, my brother Mark and I struggled to maintain harmony during long car rides. Whether it was squabbling over space in the backseat or blasting music to drown each other out, road trips could be a challenge. Those memories inspired my latest novel, A Thousand Miles, where the main characters embark on a thousand-mile journey together, rekindling their friendship after years apart. Spending extended time in a vehicle is no simple task, especially with someone who has a complex past with you. The car can feel like a pressure cooker!

Fortunately, I’ve picked up a few tips over the years that can make family road trips—or even a journey with an old flame—enjoyable. Each road trip is unique, but keeping these three essential rules in mind can lead to a successful adventure.

Delicious Snacks

The journey my characters take mirrors my own childhood trips from Illinois to Colorado—a drive I made at least twice a year. The key to keeping the peace? Snacks! Our favorite treats were those we picked up at gas stations, which felt special compared to our usual snacks at home. Mark and I loved cheesy Combos and ranch-flavored chips, while my characters indulge in Cheez-Its and Twizzlers. The magic lies in choosing snacks you wouldn’t normally enjoy. When I see Combos, I’m reminded of those rare moments of sharing a bag with Mark. The only real mistake on a road trip? Forgetting to bring snacks altogether.

Engaging Car Games

Whether you’re on a road trip with friends, partners, or family, it’s essential to find ways to entertain yourselves along the way. I remember a time when I attempted to ignore everyone on our drive to Colorado for Christmas—needless to say, it wasn’t enjoyable for anyone! Instead, I wish I had suggested a fun game. There are plenty to choose from, like the classic license plate game, where you search for plates from different states. For something more intense, my characters in A Thousand Miles play Two Truths and a Lie, which brings out surprising revelations and strengthens their bond.

Unique Stops

Growing up, our family trips were about getting to our destination as quickly as possible. However, some of my fondest memories come from unexpected detours. One time, we found ourselves in a small Nebraska town called North Platte, which has several historical sites and a massive souvenir shop. It was during a health scare with my mom that we discovered this town. Luckily, my dad spotted a hospital nearby and we were able to get help. That experience led us to make it a tradition to stop there on future trips. While writing A Thousand Miles, I made sure to include North Platte, though I left out the dramatic parts.

The takeaway? Every exit has something special waiting—you just need to be open to adventure. Isn’t that true in life as well? For more insights on road trips, check out this blog post on Home Insemination Kit and explore the journey of creating a family with Make a Mom.

Summary

Road trips can be memorable and enjoyable with the right snacks, games, and unique stops along the way. Embrace the journey, and be open to the surprises that await you on the road. For resources on pregnancy and home insemination, March of Dimes offers excellent information.

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