Rules of the road for intrepid road-trippers
Well, it’s officially summer. For some, that means beach-side cottages, seemingly endless festivals, and sizzling-hot BBQs. Others may prefer to spend their time on the soccer pitch or under the starry night sky next to a roaring fire. For me, however, nothing can supplant the road-trip as the quintessential summertime experience.
There’s something both exhilarating and liberating about hitting the open road that you just don’t get with a plane, train, or bus.
I was first introduced to the road-trip by accident. It was July 2013 when I found myself in Cairns, Australia, sitting behind the wheel of what was quite possibly the smallest car on the planet. I was about to embark on a journey that would see me cover over 4,000 km in little more than three weeks. A couple days before this, I had no intention of driving anywhere—of course, that was before I realized how expensive intercity transport is in the Land Down Under.
Which brings me to my first rule of road-tripping: Don’t plan for it.
Hear me out. The first thing to understand about road-trips is that they aren’t about the destination, they’re about the journey. Cliché, I know. But it’s true.
Leave the GPS at home, grab a map, and pick a destination. That’s it. Plan too much and you’ll eliminate adventure and spontaneity from your expedition. I argue that getting lost is a requisite part of any successful road-trip for two reasons. First, you’ll meet the kindest, most interesting people while asking for help. Second, you’ll be amazed at how many fascinating sights lie down inconspicuous backroads right across Ontario and further afield.
Second rule of road-tripping: Be flexible.
If you’ve followed my advice and hit the road without a concrete plan, you’re going to need to be prepared for the unexpected. On multi-day road-trips, you may find yourself searching for a campsite well after the sun has set. At other times, you’ll have to deal with flat tires, a broken windscreen, or an unanticipated dearth of gas stations. Don’t sweat it. This is the part where you’ll learn a lot about yourself and your companions. When the road throws you unexpected challenges, innovate, get creative, and persevere. You can do this, I believe in you. (It wouldn’t hurt to invest in a CAA membership either.)
Third rule of road-tripping: Choose your passengers wisely.
The road-trip is best experienced with others, and since it’s difficult to swap travel companions once you’re on the road, you’re going to want to pick them judiciously. Don’t worry too much if they can’t read a map (see getting lost above), just make sure you won’t want to strangle each other after spending eight hours in close proximity. This is especially important for couples. If your relationship can survive a 4,000 km car ride, chances are it can survive anything.
Now, before you set off on your grand adventure there are some practicalities to consider. You’re going to need a few things, namely, a car, a solid playlist, picnic supplies, gas money, a bathing suit (togs if you’re Australian), and, perhaps most vital, a sense of adventure.
Even if you can’t commit to a multi-day jaunt, take a day-trip to somewhere you’ve never been before. You’ll awaken your sense of curiosity, feel more creative, and gain a new appreciation for all that your backyard has to offer.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a friend, pack your bags, roll down the windows, and let the sweet summer air carry you away. Oh, and if you do go, could you save me a seat?