Few things are as fun and “American” as the “road trip.” Whether an after college experience or a bachelor party excursion, traveling with your buddy can be a fun, even life changing experience.

But before you get too far ahead of yourself, remember that there are ground rules when it comes to planning a great road trip. Keep these helpful tips in mind if you want your road trip to go off without a hitch.

1. Engage in Straight Talk and Planning. Guys are not big talkers and many of us aren’t big planners either. However, if you want to avoid some uncomfortable situations out on the road, set time aside to hammer out some details, especially when it comes to who’s responsible for what. How are you handling the driving? Paying for gas? Food? Etc. Don’t make assumptions and make sure you’re on the same page before setting out. You’ll be thankful you did.


2. Set Some Car Rules. Are you or your buddy a smoker? Are we allowing eating in the car? The obvious answers to these questions are that anything goes on a road trip but even if you feel that way maybe your buddy doesn’t. And maybe you’re driving his car? Car owner makes the rules when it comes to things that stink or stain, otherwise talk it out and come to an agreement.


3. Soundtrack It. The days of the traditional “mix tape” might be long gone but the good part is the modern music library holds thousands more songs than a cassette tape ever could. What could be more crucial to a good road trip than the proper music to set the mood and drive to? Nothing. The answer is nothing is more important.


4. Have a General Plan. Even if you’re planning on “winging it,” have a general idea of where you want to go, how far you want to travel each day, and where you expect to wind up when it’s time to pull off the road for the night. The last thing you want is to find yourself lost and fifty miles away from the nearest hotel.


5. Be Willing to Go Off the Beaten Path. Just because you are traveling from Point A to Point B on the road trip, it doesn’t mean that you can’t take a little side trip here and there. Sometimes, the best parts of the road trips are those unexpected little excursions. Maybe it would be cool to see the world’s largest ball of twine or to hit up Area 51 when you are heading out to Vegas. Get off the interstate and find the less traveled path. You’ll find some great things when you do.


6. Be Safe. This may sound lame but especially if you’re planning on driving through rural or barren areas (such as heading to Vegas), make sure you maintain a level of contact with the people back home. Check in regularly, mind your gas, and don’t blow past that sign that says “last gas for 100 miles” because you “think you can make it.” There’s throwing caution to the wind for a fun, carefree trip… and then there’s being stupid. Don’t be stupid.

The American road trip is a time-honored tradition enjoyed by generations before us and hopefully more to come. Whether you have an ending point in mind or are simply heading out and letting the road guide you remember that the journey can be just as fun and rewarding as the destination.

Good luck!