6 Tips for an Easy Summer Road trip

Five of our seven grandchildren have just finished a full year of a hybrid of virtual + in-person learning at their elementary schools in Illinois. My husband and I are anxious to take a road trip and visit them.  Not only do we want to make up for our time apart, but we also want to experience a few memorable summertime adventures. We have lots of activities planned, including campfires with s’mores, movie nights, nature museums, and water parks. Plus, a few babysitting rounds, which will give my adult children a much-needed break. Traveling by car is a wonderful way to go exploring, you never know what surprises you may find along the open roads. Road trips allow you to be adventurous and explore places you have never been. Today, I am sharing 6 Tips for an Easy Summer Road Trip.

Saving money on the trip = More to do with the grandchildren 

My husband and I frequently drive from Naples, FL to visit our children and grandchildren in Illinois. In doing so we have learned to make the most of our travel by finding the best deals. Plus, I like to make the drive as easy as possible. Our AARP® member benefits allow my husband and I to travel safely. We can also enjoy discounts on restaurants and stays at hotels like Motel 6 along the way. Saving money on our trip allows us to enjoy more activities with our grandchildren.

On our last road trip up north, we decided to spend two nights in Nashville, Tennessee.  It was fun being a tourist there.  We visited music museums, shopped, and listened to great country music. 

Other stops we like to make are at local road stands. For example, my husband knows that we cannot travel through Georgia without stopping. I always stop to pick up fresh peaches and pecans whenever I see a stand.

Wherever your summer road trip leads you, it is wise to map out your journey. Spontaneity is fun, however, a well-thought-out plan will allow you to make the most of your trip as well as save money along the way. Below are my 6 tips for an Easy Summer Road Trip.

6 Tips for an Easy Summer Road trip

1. To travel with ease, we utilize as many benefits as possible from AARP Member Benefits. They have countless resources and a wealth of information that will guide you and help to keep your travels safe. You will also find an abundance of hotel discounts available on their site. You can save 10% on hotel stays plus a free late checkout at Motel 6 & Studio 6 upon request. 
2. Pre-pack healthy snacks.  We like to bring fresh fruit and nuts. We also pack our favorite sandwiches ahead of time in a cooler with beverages.
3. Download a favorite book or podcast before you leave. We have also added comedy shows to our list. They are entertaining and certainly help to pass the time.
4. Bring headphones. Sometimes the two of you may not want to listen to the same thing.
5. Rent a car for a fun new adventure. In our case, we rent because we often need more space for luggage. Plus, it is fun to try a new ride. The best part is, you do not have to worry about putting extra miles on your own car. With your AARP membership, you can save up to 30% off base rates on car rentals from Avis Rent A Car, plus get an upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings, an additional driver at no cost, and more.
6. Go exploring along the way. Stop for historical landmarks or places with interesting sights. My husband and I enjoy stopping at historical landmarks and scenic parks to stretch our legs and take a break from driving. Walking in nature is therapeutic and you will feel rejuvenated when you return to your car.

Road trips are about the experience and quite often it’s those unexpected detours that create lifetime memories. 

I am participating in a promotional campaign for AARP Services. I am receiving a fee for posting; however, the opinions expressed in this post are my own. I am not an employee of AARP Services and do not earn a commission or percent of sales.