Lots of really good ideas... a good thread! Some thoughts I've gained
from multiple long road trips, including two trips to Alaska from the
east coast and midwest:
1. I second (third?) the pillow idea.
2. Even if you aren't planning to camp, get a cheap tent and sleeping
bags to serve as a backup or a break from motels. There are myriad
wonderful camping areas in the area to which you are traveling. And,
sometimes motels are full or too expensive. Target stores this week are
advertising a tent and sleeping bags for under $30 each (I'm sure not
high quality, but will pay for themselves easily with one night spent
camping).
3. A multi-disc CD player is worth every penny when traveling.
4. Books on CD are also quite useful. Some truck stops offer
rental/exchange programs for low prices.
5. Get up early and get the driving done early. Less traffic, less
heat, and it leaves you time to feel like you are actually seeing
something at the destination.
6. We really like picnic lunches at attractive rest areas. Take a
well-stocked cooler, some food staples (bread, etc.), plates, and other
lunching implements. You can stop anywhere and enjoy a nice meal
outside. Nothing better than sitting at an overlook in Yellowstone and
leisurely eating lunch while taking in a great view. Supplement
occasionally with fast-food lunches or whatever to keep from getting
bored.
7. Go out of your way to talk with people you meet on the road, even
if this normally isn't your style. Even brief human interaction has a
way of brightening your day. Say hello, make a wry comment, or invite
that confused-looking German tourist couple to share a PB&J sandwich
for lunch.
8. Motels are motels. Don't spend extra $$ for services you don't need.
Put the money into sightseeing, nice dinners, etc.
9. Buy a National Parks Pass. It may or may not pay off, but it allows
you the flexibility to pop in and view a park/attraction that you may
not otherwise have paid the $$ for. Once you spend the $50 (or whatever
it is now) once, it's out of your mind and you can concentrate on
seeing the sights.
10. If something catches your eye or fancy, stop or detour to check it
out. These serindipitous moments often provide the best memories of a
trip.
11. Don't be a slave to a schedule (see #10).
12. Stop and have ice cream now and again (see #11).
13. Make a point of getting out of your car and walking/hiking to see
things,especially in the National Parks.
14. Don't take anything that, if stolen, will break your heart (or
wallet). Car break-ins are, unfortunately, commonplace at many tourist
areas.
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