by Tracey Lund

Created on: October 31, 2009

Family vacation is the perfect time to build bonds and make precious memories, and the best time to start making those plans is quickly approaching. Planning a vacation can sometimes be tedious or expensive, but is usually well worthwhile in the end. The type of vacation can greatly influence the moods of all involved. One kind of vacation that can inspire a sense of adventure in all that are involved is the road trip.

Not only are road trips more affordable than many other types of vacations, but, with an open itinerary, everyone in the family can feel involved and fulfilled. Road trips can be taken to a place near or far from home, with as much or as little time as needed or available. The pit stops along the way only serve to strengthen the sense of adventure and interest.

Road trips are easy to do on or off of a budget. Hotels along the way are anywhere between luxurious and expensive or simple and affordable. Gas prices may be elevated, but, especially when traveling with family, is still much more affordable than plane tickets. Food can be eaten on the way in fast food chains, upscale restaurants or quaint roadside cafes. The more thrifty vacationer can bring food with them in an ice chest and stop at rest stops along the way to make sandwiches or wraps. Souvenirs are also simple on a budget, as there are so many numerous things that can be purchased. Even on the lightest budget, it is usually possible to at least buy a post card at each stop.

To enhance the sense of adventure on a road trip, it is usually a good idea to take into account each family member's interests. Before departing on the trip, do some research to find attractions along the way that are associated with each person's interest. Be sure to save some sights for the trip back home in order to assure a peaceful ride both ways. Also keep in mind that stopping every two hours or so helps to keep everyone from becoming too restless and bored. It may also be helpful in order to alleviate the cries of, I have to go! I have to go now! Additionally, it is a good idea to leave time to stop at roadside attractions that were not on the list. On a previously unexplored highway, you never know what kind of surprises are looming around the next corner.

For vacationers that have doubts about taking a road trip due to having young children, the fact that most children can be easily entertained can be reassuring. For the youngsters, prepare a backpack with some of their favorite smaller toys, a notebook, coloring book, crayons and pencils. Magnetic games are great distractions for children who are old enough to play them, as well as simple crafts that do not require scissors or glue. Stopping every two hours is even more highly suggested in these circumstances, however, since the younger they are, the faster they may become restless.

The best part of a road trip may just be the anticipation of arriving at the main destination. The scenery flies by as the vehicle enters terrains unknown to its passengers, captivating many, sparking the imagination. The urge to see the center of the journey builds up with every single stop. Finally, upon arrival, it can feel like one of the most exciting and memorable moments.

By the end of the expedition everyone will be excited to get home and reveal the incredible landscapes, pit stops and attractions that they have seen to friends or coworkers. More than likely, everyone will have enjoyed themselves on the trip and be ready for the next automobile excursion by the time the next vacation rolls around. It may even be the start of a new tradition! Either way, the time spent together will, at the very least, be one of the most unforgettable vacations.

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