Photo by Simon Matzinger / CC0 1.0
The road trip is a timeless form of travel that combines the excitement of exploring with the convenience of driving from destination to destination. And the couples road trip is an excellent extension of that, as two people are able to spend time exploring together all while spending time together as closely as humanly possible. But before hitting the road as a couple, remember these important tips to make any trip as smooth as can be.
Take your time
Whether you are going on a couples road trip to a specific destination or just to check out a number of different things, it is human nature to want to get from stop to stop as quickly as possible. But when going on a trip with a significant other, there is a lot of value in sitting back and enjoying the journey as much as the destination. Just like a relationship is about the memories that are made along the way, there are plenty of memories that can be made before getting to each stop on a road trip in addition to the ones that are made when you get there.
One way to do that is to take an opportunity to check out all of the beautiful scenery that might occur along the way. Nature is the ultimate example of not being in a rush, as mountains and waterfalls and other sources of natural beauty typically form over extended periods of time. Taking the time to appreciate those places while traveling is a great way to remember to cherish the trip while checking out some very interesting things at the same time.
Do your research
While a solo road trip or a trip with friends can feel more spontaneous, the couple road trip experience is one that often requires meticulous planning, from packing down to the activities that are lined up along the way. You also need to consider some small details about the destination, such as if the place is pet-friendly (in case you are traveling with your pets), what kind of food you are going to find there, where to stay, and other important details.
Specifically, road trippers should be on the lookout for romantic activities and places to go at different stops during the trip. Sitting in a car going from place to place doesn’t always feel like the most romantic activity, so it is extremely important to make any time not spent in the car feel special. Whether that is in the form of finding romantic eateries, natural beauty, or just by finding a place to do something your partner enjoys, this part of the road trip planning process may be the most important.
Understanding the cost of living in different places that a road trip will run through is also important. For couples, things like the cost of a date can vary wildly from place to place. Making sure that you have enough to do everything you want to do in each location you pass through can greatly enhance the road trip experience.
Photo by Dominika Roseclay / CC0 1.0
Don’t forget anything
It might go without saying, but forgetting the basic necessities that people need to get through a road trip or day can put a damper on the mood of a couple’s road trip. As a result, make sure you have all your basic needs covered to avoid having to go and get them while on the road. There is likely to be a place to pick up any essentials along the course of a road trip but, as creatures of habit, having to get used to a new toothbrush or other needs while traveling can be annoying. In addition to the essentials, remembering to bring things like special food and beverages, or other items that you both enjoy, will ensure a more positive trip from start to finish. Just make sure anything you bring can keep in the car.
When taking to the open road, be sure not to drive while tired. Making sure to get any necessary rest while following the above advice is the recipe for a memorable trip with your significant other from start to finish.