The classic road trip is an adventure in which travel companions explore new places, take in new sights and dig deep into friendships during long conversations on miles of open road.
This sounds almost NOTHING like the tech-infested road trips of today. It can be incredibly difficult to unplug -- especially when your directions depend on it -- so road trip season usually means quality time with earbuds, Snapchat and the occasional podcast. But before you plug in, consider turning your next road trip -- or at least part of it -- into a digital detox. Commit to a few hours of road time each day when everyone in the car turns off their phones and gets back to the basics. And by basics, we mean...
1. Plot your route on a paper map.
Bring along a big, fold-out map, and mark out your route from the backseat. It's extra-satisfying to see how far you've traveled, and the map makes a frame-worthy DIY keepsake afterward.
2. Meditate
You can meditate in public, and you can definitely meditate from a car (if you're not driving, of course). Acknowledge the sounds and movements around you, and focus on your breath. You're reducing stress and boosting happiness, all while getting to your next pit stop.
3. Knit.
It's easy to learn, and you'll be stunned at how many items you can knit in a short amount of time, from pillow covers to clothes. Not only can you create some new home decor, but you'll have a new skill that you can do pretty much anywhere.
4. Follow those funky billboards.
As you drive, keep an eye out for those roadside billboards: They advertise everything from free chocolate samples to kitschy diners to mega-size candle warehouses. Consider visiting these places, because that's a what a road trip is all about.
5. Finally master photography.
If you're not driving, road trips are opportune times to mess around with shutter speed and lighting, as the car's motion is a unique photographic setting. Invest in an classic camera, and master your craft.
6. Memorize a mixtape.
No iPhones or Spotify playlists allowed: Bring a real-deal CD, and pop it into your car's disc player. There's something to be said for listening to the same 12 songs over and over... they'll always remind you of this trip.
7. Practice backseat yoga.
Bring those classic airplane yoga poses to the car, and lead your trip mates who are not driving in a series of spinal rolls, seated twists and thigh lifts. They are key for maintaining healthy circulation during hours of sitting.
8. Make up your own games.
You're giving your brain a challenge, which is healthy. Play a game of “seven questions” instead of 21. Re-cast your favorite movies using you and your friends as the stars. Count how many times you see the word "jerky" on a billboard. Get kooky with it!
