Enjoying road trips: Part 3: Taking The Trip:

So we’ve asked ourselves the questions, and we’ve made preparations based on the answers we found. Now it’s time for the actual trip. Here’s how to make the next two, six or twelve hours a pleasant experience.

-Dress comfortably: Imagine going four hours with that bit of clothing digging into one’s side. Definitely unpleasant, and it could be downright unhealthy. For the transit, choose loose fitting clothes and shoes. Feet tend to swell when one is seated for an extended period of time so if the shoes are tight, you run a risk of blisters and other complications. Tight jeans are not advisable for the same reason. It usually gets warm in the vehicle, so cool clothing is advised, but have a sweater or shawl handy in case it gets cold.

-Show up on time: If using public means or private means and traveling with a group, being early means you get a seat of your choice. If using private means, you probably do not want to be the one everyone is waiting for.

-Exchange contacts with fellow travellers and driver if in a group and in private means: It could come in handy in case you get separated from your group at a stop.

-Be considerate: Think about your fellow travellers even as you go about enjoying your trip. Using earphones/headphones is considerate; not everyone is interested in listening to your selection of music for the next four hours. Very aromatic foods might not be welcome in the confines of a vehicle, so think about that as you make your selection of travel snacks. I am only 5ft2 so I normally have to give up the front seat or other seats with extra legroom for my taller travel companions.  Part of enjoying your road trip is ensuring that your travel companions are doing the same, as much as it’s in your power to do so.

-Keep hydrated: The heat in the confined space or the airconditioning can cause you to lose excess water without noticing. Have a drink handy to keep hydrated and more comfortable throughout the long journey. 

-Do something: I think what makes road trips such a chore is the endless hours of travel. One can get bored, so it helps to have something to concentrate on besides the road (if you are not the driver). I am blessed to be able to read in a moving vehicle, so I usually use transit time to catch up on novels, reports, blogs and the like. I can also use the time to write (on paper on a smooth road, or type away on my laptop). Another good pastime for the long hours is to pray. Talk to God, listen to Him, just use the hours to connect and receive some divine revelation. You could also use the time to catch up with your travel companions, if they are willing to talk or join in a game of cards, chess or scrabble. You could use the transit time to watch a movie or complete your favourite series, if you have a laptop or other device with a good battery.  Sometimes, I will use the trip to catch up on much needed sleep. There is something very soothing about the rhythmic motion of the car combined with the sound of wind blowing past the window. Sleeping on public means could cost you so practice with caution. 

-Keep your valuables on your person and out of sight: This is a MUST when using public means, and even when in private means it is prudent depending on the company you are in. If I have a handbag, it is constantly looped around my arm. Using a phone while on the move is almost inevitable but keep it far away like in an inner pocket in one’s jacket or sweater. Keep the bulk of your cash away from prying eyes, and only have on hand the change you need to make simple purchases. Travel documents and IDs should be in pockets on your clothes, not in a backpack in the carrier above your seat. If you have to get out at a stop, say to use the rest-room and are not traveling with a trusted colleague, move with your bag(s).

What other things can one do to ensure the actual trip is as enjoyable as possible? Please let me know in the comments below.