Are you sitting on the fence about this one? Maybe you’ve been feeling drained out due to your dreary job, dictated by stress, and dealing with life day by day. Well, a road trip is exactly what you need. Whether you’re on the brink of fizzling out, it’s time to embark on a road trip and distract yourself from your mundane routine.

Escape your tediously dull, day-to-day to-do’s, and get your ass out that goddamn door. See more. Experience more. Learn more. And you’ll be immensely grateful for this sublime world we live in. 

In an era taunted by the trace of technology, taking a gamble and concocting a plan to venture out into our planet's fantastic realms is the perfect remedy.

Travel is medicine. Travel is therapy. In its entirety, travel is an all-encompassing experience that generates phenomenal personal growth, and it sheds a gleaming light on this idyllic paradise that we are so lucky to call home. 

Here’s what we cover in this guide:

• My Experience on Road Trips

• 12 Reasons to Go On a Road Trip

• 5 Things to Consider Before Going on a Road Trip

• FAQs

And a road trip proposes plenteous, profound possibilities to relish in the splendour of spontaneity. 

So what’s the recipe to ensure a successful mission? 

Fundamentally, you’ve got to allow time for the unexpected mishaps, and of course, for a sudden change of plans if you do so happen to stumble across a handful of hidden gems. 

No one road trip can be combatted without contending with some sort of a conundrum. Trust me, whether you’re soaring down Spain’s south-east coast from Valencia to Alicante or whether you’re exploring the Jurassic-esque, limestone mountains of none other than Australia’s Grampians, there are almost always guaranteed to be a fair few hiccups popping up along the way.

And that liberating feeling of the untamed, unprecedented chaos that only a road trip can bring makes for the most memorable of experiences. It evokes inner fruition as you face your fears and ditches the stipulation's sporadic spouts to control every aspect of your fleeting time on the road.

You learn to embrace the pure sensation of freedom as it pulsates through every inch of your body. Let’s dive into the dynamics and even some drawbacks of discovering a destination through a road trip. Your next odyssey awaits you…

Get Synced With Spontaneity & You Set Your Own Schedule

This is one of the most significant benefits of road trips.

You’re not fixed on tedious tour-group timetables and impeding itineraries that don’t allow you to venture off-track and into the horizon of unfamiliar territory.

You get to be the one who determines what speed you hit the ground running, and if you feel like dawdling around for days on end, then you very well can do so. You’re 100% more flexible.

If you eat a plate of questionable Mexican nachos and need some serious toilet time, you can stop ten times if you want to. No more destroying your new pants because you’re in charge of your own schedule! Awooga!  

The potential for pitstops is endless. You’re the boss of your departure, arrival, and itinerary. How many stops do you want to take along the way? This very freedom and flexibility cannot be understated.

Another major plus of creating your itinerary: if the weather is unpleasant, you can simply switch up your route and drive in another direction towards better weather! 

Formulate a Fabulous Playlist

Music is a remedy in itself.

So when you combine music and travel, you can create unforgettable memories sure to have you reminiscing and seduced into embarking on another epic expedition. There’s nothing quite like amassing an array of your most treasured tunes and letting those speakers rip.

Whether you’re in the mood for a ’70s jam session or a 21st-century techno rave, your car is the perfect environment to bask in the beauty that is music. If you’re setting off on a long road trip, I’d highly recommend compiling many miscellaneous playlists to keep the atmosphere running high.

Whenever we head to a new destination, I’m always quick to cook up a juicy playlist to satisfy everyone. DJ Bergi, at your service. Providing pure ecstasy for your earbuds. 

Immerse Yourself in the Experience 

The beauty of the journey itself, in all its mishaps and antics, lies within the experience. Setting off on an escapade is about immersing yourself as you meander around the depths of uncharted terrain.

The journey is the destination, but the splendour of learning to live in the moment rather than bouncing back and forth between the past and the future is one of the biggest lessons you’ll learn. A road trip provides you with the opportunity to embrace the now.

You learn to appreciate the sheer magnificence of the winding highways and narrow alleys leading to your final destination. Don’t get me wrong; there’s nothing like the perspective you gain when soaring many miles above ground over cotton-candy-like clouds.

But you’ll only encounter new scents, sights, and sounds on the verge of a road trip. It’s a sweeping sensory experience, to say the very least. 

Liberate Yourself of Your Habitual Hum Drum

Setting off on a road trip means escaping the stressful factors of your day-to-day routine. Instead of slaving away to the demands of stern supervisors, strict deadlines, and time-consuming, work-related projects, you get to grab life by the balls and roll with the punches.

Time transmutes from the enemy into your ally. That breath of fresh air sparks the fire within, igniting your soul as time heals all. The acute strain of your lacklustre life is simply surpassed. 

Gain Insight Into the More Authentic Side of a Country

More often than not, we can get so caught up in tourist traps and all-inclusive, resort-style stays.

But beauty is often overlooked in embracing the experience of local life.

Think about it: when you head to a new country, there is almost always a tour bus that highlights the ‘best attractions’ in the city. Sure, you’ll see the major hot spots, but you’ll miss out on the hidden gems you can only find when you set your route to your own timetable.

There are many roads less travelled, jungles yet to explore, and people you will only meet by steering clear of those mainstream tourist experiences.

When you road trip, you have more flexibility and time for meandering the streets. Sometimes, if you’re lucky enough, you’ll meet locals willing to show you the ins and outs of their hometown, far deeper than the town’s typically-portrayed tourist image.  

You’ll also learn about their culture, language, and traditions, sparking immense personal growth and a deeper understanding.

Bond With Your Travel Buddies

Road-tripping with someone allows you to develop a sturdy bond with each other, considering that you’ll be spending 24/7 together. You’ll be exposed to their philosophies and see a side of their personality that’d otherwise be left unseen.

You both have the opportunity to learn new skills and broaden your horizons. Embarking on activities like hiking, surfing, etc., will further strengthen that relationship. Your newfound partner-in-crime will leave an imprint on you, as you will do for them too.

If there’s one thing I’ve learnt after all these years of road-tripping, you need to stack up on the snacks beforehand. This will help ensure you avoid any ‘hangry’ behaviour and, therefore devoid of any ‘hangry’-related quarrels. Munchies for the win!

Make Memories You’ll Cherish

There’s indisputably one thing you’ll take away from a road trip: and that’s a big ol’ bag full of… memories.

Whether those recollections leave you feeling an inner sense of peace or whether they generate that one-of-a-kind, snort-laughing at the wild, somewhat feral antics you got up to, whatever the hell it is, it’ll last you a lifetime.

And you can’t put a price on that.

Those memories make you smile even when you’re back in the hustle and bustle of your mundane routine.

And the best part is that they’ll continue to resurface and spire you into a spur of inspiration for your next venture. It’s moments like those that bring a unique colour to your life. 

Squeeze in all the Gadgets & Gear You Please 

Where are my organisation freaks at?! Overpacker’s-R-Us.

There’s nothing like setting yourself up a solid preparation station, only to be told at the airport that you’ve overdone it and will either have to fork out a hefty fee or ditch the extra baggage weight…

One of the best things about road-tripping is the simple fact that you can pack whatever the hell you want. Size, weight, and airline guidelines are no longer a restriction. Bringing along your favourite squishy pillow, fuzzy blankets, a plentiful supply of books, and extravagant, over-the-top outfits are now more than entirely feasible. 

Your only limitation? How much junk can you fit in your trunk… My best advice is to ensure you have a safe little spot within your vehicle to hide or lock away any valuable items. 

Save Yourself Some Serious Dosh

Depending on your destination, taking a road trip almost always works out cheaper than flying. You can save your stacks of cash by preparing yourself some snacks and easy, on-the-go meals to demolish when those hangry feels start to creep up. Say adiós to the airport’s overpriced, minuscule meals and hola to as many munchies as your heart desires. Attack of the snacks!! 

I’d recommend bringing along a cooler/esky; that way, you can stock up on the drinks, and if you plan on heading to a beach or camping, you can easily take that with you. Apart from the grocery side of it, a road trip also allows you to save up some cashola by splitting the cost for gas/petrol, hotel rooms, etc.

Get Your Heart Pumping With Some Good Old-Fashioned, Physical Exercise

Setting off on a road trip allows you to pump it out and get active whilst en route.

Driving along for miles on end can sometimes leave your butt feeling fuzzy and like it will literally swallow itself.

There’s no better way to refresh your body and mind than by making a quick pit stop to get sweaty. Pack yourself a yoga mat, workout gear, resistance bands, kayaks, bicycles, surfboards, or whatever tickles your pickle. The possibilities are endless! 

Bring Your Beloved Furry Friend

For those of you with a pet, a road trip allows you to take your favourite lil companion alongside you. You don’t have to pay fees, put them through quarantine, or suffer from the anxiety of not having them by your side.

There’s nothing like that feeling of soaring down a highway with your dog’s ecstatic, slobbering head out one window and your untamed bird’s nest (hair) flying out the other. Your pet can partake in the adventure too! 

Cultivate Self-Confidence & Cope With Stress

When you travel on your own, whether via foot, car, rollerskates, public transport, tricycle, or whatever on earth it is, you automatically walk away from the experience with a boost in your self-confidence.

This is because you have to plan and ensure that everything works out on your own. And, of course, when things don’t quite go your way, you improve your ability to respond to and deal with the problem. Whether the car breaks down or you get stuck in a traffic jam for 5 hours, you must face the stressor head-on and tackle it. 

Things to Consider Before Going on a Road Trip

Needless to say, the benefits of embarking on a road trip are endless. However, there are a handful of things you should consider beforehand. 

•      Driving takes time

To get from point A to B, consider the total time you’ll spend behind the wheel. 

•      You have to do all the work

Everything and anything is up to you, from planning your route to prepping your vehicle. You have to be willing to hold yourself fully accountable. 

•      Finding a spot to park the car

In some cities, sourcing a spot to park your vehicle can feel like Mission Impossible. Always plan ahead to avoid high parking rates and fines and ensure your safety comes first. 

•      Wear and tear

Lengthy car trips can do extensive damage to older vehicles. Always ensure you’ve done a service to avoid any breakdowns/unexpected mishaps. 

•      The trek back 

A big trip is always worth it, but sometimes, the drive back home can feel like you’re dragging yourself through the depths of hell… Make sure you’re mentally prepared to repeat the initial journey, or better yet, plan to return home on a different route to shake it up. 

FAQS

Why should you go on a road trip?

A road trip allows you to create more freedom and travel on your own schedule. You’ll get out of the regular routine, save more money and escape to off-the-beaten-track destinations.

Why is life like a road trip?

Because, as cliche as it sounds, you never know the destination until you get there. A road trip is full of ups and downs and life is exactly the way.

Why road trip is the best way to see the country?

A road allows you to be as flexible as you want. A road trip is the best way to see a country when it comes to following your own schedule and deciding where to stay and where to go.

What do you think about when going on a road trip?

Taking a road trip invites you to immerse yourself in the landscape fully. As you gain an authentic experience in the destination, you can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

If you’re planning your road trip and are after specific info about the route or spots to stop off at along the way, I’d recommend checking out Roadtrippers to help make your journey go as smoothly as possible.

That being said, road trips make for an unquestionably memorable experience.

You’ll walk away with far more knowledge, understanding, and passion for life than you would just by catching a flight. If done right, the journey can awaken your soul and act as a catalyst to change your life…

So, now you know the 12 reasons to go on a road trip. What are you waiting for?