ways to make ROAD TRIPS F U N

IT’S PRIME ROAD TRIP SEASON and GETTING

THERE is HALF the FUN.

1 PLAN a PLAYLIST

Radio stations come and go, so collaborate on a road trip soundtrack or ask everyone to suggest a new podcast to listen to on the way. It just might spark a discussion — or a sing-along!

2 TAKE the SCENIC ROUTE

The interstate might be the fastest route, but the back roads are almost always more interesting. Scenic byways offer pretty scenery and historical and cultural stops along the way. If there’s not one along your route (you can check at scenicbyways.info), ask state tourism departments and other travelers about alternate routes.

3 PACK entertainment BAGS

Banish boredom by giving each traveler a daypack filled with books, small toys, art supplies, portable DVD players, cards, travel games, magazines and travel journals. Items don’t have to be new, but they should be novel enough to hold the user’s attention.

4 send ROAD MAIL

There are postcards and greeting cards at most gas stations (although you might have to search), so pack stamps and addresses so you can surprise friends and family with stories from the road. Finding a mailbox can be a little trickier, so ask the clerk for directions to the post office.

5 GET a GOODY BAG

Pack enough bottled water and a few simple snacks to tide everyone over until the next stop. Items like chewy granola bars, dried fruit, trail mix and nuts don’t take up much space and keep well, so anything not eaten on the road can be consumed later.

6 make FUEL STOPS SILLY

Stopping for gas doesn’t feel like a NASCAR pit stop if you have a little fun with it. Note the license plates in the parking lot, buy a new snack or look for the weirdest souvenir on the shelf. Truck stops usually have a particularly good variety of all of the above.

7 Get Active

Sitting still is rough on the body and the soul, so try a few neck rolls, stretches or deep breaths in the car and a brisk walk at every stop. If refueling isn’t an issue, plan bathroom stops for rest areas or roadside parks to take in a little soothing green space.

8 HIT the BRAKES

Pull over for historical markers, enjoy the view from that scenic overlook and take silly selfies at roadside attractions. Sometimes the best stops are the ones you never intended to take.

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