Road trips are great ways to spend time alone or bond with family and friends. You explore multiple destinations and enjoy the scenery along the way. Here are five tips that ensure you plan the perfect road trip.

Plan Carefully

When you first start dreaming about your road trip, the list of destinations may be extensive. Pull out a map and look at how you can best connect each location you want to visit. You may find that some places need to be removed, or you may across other sites to see along the way. When you plan your road trip, be sure to include the well-known, as well as places that few people visit. This adds a bit of adventure and exploration to the journey.

Be Flexible

If this is your first time planning a road trip, you may try to stick to a rigid schedule, but this approach may diminish the enjoyment. Make sure to keep some extra time in each day and be flexible in the actual route. You may find that some places deserve more or less time, and being flexible helps you enjoy the moment.

Stay Rested

You may want to push yourself to stick to a plan while on your road trip, which often translates into skipping out on rest. Sleep and breaks are important when on the road, not only for a leisurely pace but also for safety—pullover at rest areas or places of interest every two to three hours. Have a snack, and enjoy your surroundings. Be sure to give yourself time at the end of the day for dinner, relaxation, and plenty of sleep. Eat a good breakfast in the morning before setting out again.

Do the Unexpected

Be ready to come across signs along the road that point you to new places to explore. Take some of those routes, and see what you find. Times like these can be some of the most interesting in your road trips.

Have Fun

Most of all, have fun on your road trip. If you plan on driving for several hours, find ways to stay entertained. Take your favorite music or audiobooks if you are traveling alone. For families and friends, plan some road games that engage everyone and help you bond.