Taking a long road trip by yourself is one of the more rewarding and enthralling things you can do. Solo road trips are great for introverts but can be just as fun for extroverts. Whether you’re taking a trip for business or pleasure, there are several things that you can do to make the experience enjoyable and safe.
So, let’s take a ride through these 15 things to do on a long car ride by yourself.
Tips For Long Drives Alone
1. Collect the Essential Road Trip Safety Supplies
There is something romantic and adventurous about taking an impulsive road trip at a moment’s notice. But putting your wheels to the road without first having essential road trip safety supplies can get you in a whole lot of trouble. The good news is, for most safety supplies you only have to think about them once. They’re things that you hope you never have to use, but keeping them in your car can make all the difference in the world if something does happen.
Most cars come standard with a jack and a spare tire. If you don’t do anything else before your road trip (not recommended) make sure you have a jack and a spare tire filled with air. A flat spare will do you no good. Instead of piecing together your emergency kit, you can purchase one like this one on Amazon that includes jumper cables, various common tools, gloves, flashlights and other items that come in handy on the road.
2. Plan Your Route (At Least a Little Bit)
Remember that there are still some places without phone service. Depending on your phone for directions is fine, but it’s always good to have a backup in the form of an actual, physical map. If your phone dies, breaks, or loses service you can use a Rand McNally Road Atlas to find your way back to civilization. Some people like to record their trip on a map and then keep it as a souvenir. It’s pretty cool to be able to look at the route you took highlighted on a map.
3. Bring Water. Lots of Water
Believe it or not, driving can dehydrate you before you know it. Drinking water can help you stay alert and feeling good through your whole trip. Plus, it’s always a good idea to have a spare gallon or two in the trunk for emergencies. Other drinks, such as juice and sports drinks can be great for solo trips as well but generally won’t taste as good once they get warm. Of course, you can always purchase a little cooler to place in the seat next to you, for your various road trip drinks and snacks.
4. Splurge a Little With Your Road Trip Snacks
A long car ride by yourself is the perfect time to indulge in snacks you normally wouldn’t. Things that you know aren’t healthy for you make the best road trip snacks. Just remember that too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. So balance your “cheat” snacks with healthy, energy-rich snacks like nuts and dried fruits.
5. Stay Alert With Caffeine
Gas station coffee is hit or miss, but there are plenty of options for other energy drinks along the way. But don’t expect the caffeine to drive for you. If you start to feel drowsy it is always better to pull over and rest in a safe spot than to drive and risk falling asleep in a moving car.
If you’d like a little caffeine boost but don’t want to stop for a fresh cup of coffee you can always bring along a can of Grinds. Grinds are coffee pouches mixed with other flavors such as mocha, cinnamon roll, vanilla, caramel, and cherry. Each pouch is equivalent to 1/4 cup of coffee making them a great source of energy for those times when stopping for another pick-me-up is just out of the question.
6. Create a Playlist
One of the best things to do while driving alone is to sing your heart out. Some of your favorite music can take on a whole new dimension when you’re on the open road. There’s no one to judge you or look at you funny (aside from other drivers, perhaps). Plus, putting on some upbeat music can help you stay alert and engaged on your drive.
7. Listen to Audiobooks
Audiobooks are a great way to keep yourself entertained or educated while driving by yourself. No matter your taste in entertainment, you’re sure to find something you’ll like on apps like Audible. But beware: some audiobooks have a way of making you a little too relaxed. Make sure to choose something that won’t put you to sleep.
8. Listen to Podcasts
There are tons of podcasts out there. Much like audiobooks, a little looking will surely yield you something you will enjoy. You can download episodes before you hit the road so as not to use your data and risk losing coverage. If you have never listened to any podcasts before, just choose a few that sound interesting and see if any of them strike your fancy!
9. Roll Down The Windows
Weather permitting, some fresh air can be just what the doctor ordered. Provided you’re not sitting in traffic, you can enjoy the smell and feel of country air. If you’re on the coast, there’s nothing like the smell of the ocean. If you’re in the mountains, the sweet smell of pine trees is wonderful. Both farmland and desert come with their unique landscapes and scents, as well.
10. Enjoy Your ‘Me Time’
Some people have a fear of driving long distances, but for others, there is something about driving by yourself that helps those deeps thoughts surface. Take the time to think about your life, your plans, or your past. Mulling over problems on the open road can be very therapeutic. Who knows, maybe you’ll come up to a solution to the problems that have been bugging you. Maybe you’ll come up with an idea for a book, a screenplay, a song, or a painting. Let the thoughts come to you as the country rolls by.
11. Talk to Your Loved Ones
This option is only for those with hands-free capabilities. Holding a phone in your hand is the last thing you should be doing while driving. If you have to take your attention away from the road to make a call, just wait. But for those with the ability to make phone calls without getting distracted, this is a great option. Chances are there’s at least one person you’ve been meaning to call and chat with, but your busy life gets in the way. Use your solo road trip as a chance to talk to your loved ones and catch up with those people you haven’t heard from in a while.
12. Get Comfortable
Make sure to wear comfy clothes for your trip. Pajamas, stretchy pants, sweatshirts, hoodies, and slippers are all acceptable on your solo road trip. If you’re wearing uncomfortable clothes it will make the trip seem longer than it is.
13. Stretch!
When you stop to use the restroom or get gas it’s a good idea to do some light stretching. Your legs and back are usually the first things to tighten, so loosening them up every chance you get will help tremendously. Even five minutes walking around and stretching can do a world of good.
14. Plan Your Stops
Everyone’s different when it comes to how long they can drive at a time. Some people can go for twelve plus hours. Some can only drive for a few hours before they need to stop and rest for a while. Know your limits and plan accordingly. If you’re not sure whether you should be driving it’s a good idea to stop and rest for a while. There are generally affordable hotels along travel routes in many countries.
15. Find a Safe Space
We’ve all heard some scary stories about people who pulled over to rest in the wrong place. The fact is that you should be aware of what places it’s generally okay to pull over and sleep in your car. Not only do you want to be safe, but you also want to avoid a ticket from a police officer. For a list of safe spaces in America, click here.
In Conclusion
Whether you’re the type of person who enjoys having people around to talk to or the type who prefers alone time over socializing, there are plenty of tips for long road trips alone. Enjoying the country and traveling on the open road can do you a world of good. No matter how long your trip, chances are you’ll be happy you did it. Just remember to stay alert and pull over to rest when you get tired. Making it to your destination safely should be your number one priority. Number two should be to have a good time!
A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to car safety. Routine maintenance and an emergency kit are great for road trips, local trips, and vehicle life in general. Loading up on your favorite music, audiobooks, and snacks can turn a chore into an exciting adventure. Stretching and drinking plenty of water can keep you feeling good while you’re seeing the sights and feeling the fresh air on your face!