The road trip is one of the classic childhood experiences of millions of Americans. The whole family hopping in the car and driving for miles on end to see this great nation for all its expanse and diversity.
It’s also a goddamn nightmare for dads trying to wrangle two weeks of clothing, a backseat driving spouse (no we are not lost, we have GPS for God’s sake, there’s no reason to ask for directions at the gas station) and, of course, constantly bickering, impossibly impatient, children. A road trip can make memories for a lifetime, but it can also create ulcers that will last a monthtime.
So take note, enterprising dads. Here are some tips to help minimize your stress as you try to shepherd a family across the nation.
When you’re driving on your own, Google graciously underestimates how fast you can get to your destination. If you’re really willing to push it, you can cover a 4-hour trip in 3.5 hours easy, and if you’re a dad, nothing would bring you more joy than to beat GPS.
But that’s a fairy tale land for the road trip. You’re going to take twice as long, at least. That’s because, for your sanity and the sanity of your family, you should: