As you may already know, I am in the planning stages of our next summer road trip to tick another state off our list-Alaska. As I am finding out, and which no doubt many of you readers who have traveled to Alaska already know-it’s ridiculously expensive. Because Alaska’s travel season is packed into three and a half months, businesses have a very short window of time to make their money for the entire year, which … [Read more...]
Here’s A New Way To Explore – Let Your Passion Be Your Road Trip Guide
Road tripping can be fun and incredibly educational but it can also be a great way to explore a particular interest, pastime or hobby, such as baseball. On my last road trip to New England, I had the great pleasure of meeting the Richmond family who make their home in Boston and are dedicated Red Sox Fans. Larry and Tracy are the proud parents of Caleb and Owen (ages 10 and 8) and their family has taken on the … [Read more...]
Miles & Points: How to Get The Most Out Of Loyalty Programs
It seems like every travel outfit these days has a loyalty program - airlines, hotels, car rental companies, and of course, credit cards-it can all be a little overwhelming. Here are some tips I learned to maximize your benefits while avoiding unnecessary confusion. Always sign up At the risk of getting a gazillion emails (which you can always unsubscribe from) you should always sign up. More than likely the … [Read more...]
Why You Need To Start Thinking About Next Summer’s Road Trip Now!
Spontaneity is great for a quick trip or weekend getaway, but a big summer road trip requires lots of planning. The season is just about over and I am already thinking about where we’re going next summer. Sure, I am a travel junkie and always start planning my next trip the minute I get home, but there are also some really great reasons to start thinking ahead. Here’s what you can do now to take advantage of … [Read more...]
3 Great Tips To Make The Most Of Your Outdoor Family Adventure
As Seen On Monster Fish & Game. Traveling in the great outdoors here in the USA is not only an amazing way to spend time with your family but it’s also a great opportunity to discover and learn so much about the world around us. As a single mom who’s taken on the goal of seeing all 50 states with my kids (after 10 years and 14 trips we are at 42), I can tell you that adventure and learning can take place in … [Read more...]
Don’t Let Wacky Weather Ruin Your Road Trip
So I am driving through North Dakota with my dear friend Avrille and my 3 kids in the backseat. Clouds are getting darker and it starts raining really hard, I mean like bullets hitting the car hard. All of a sudden the emergency broadcast system comes on. You know what I am talking about-the annoying loud beep that occasionally interrupts your music while they are conducting a test-except this time it’s REAl. We … [Read more...]
Road Trip Fashion-The Essentials To Keep You Organized
Two must-have items to carry your most important cargo There are two things that never leave my side when I’m traveling. They’ve become like extra limbs over the course of our road trips. Something just doesn’t feel right if I am not carrying both of these items wherever I go. They are, of course, my backpack and my fanny pack (seriously, can we come up with a better term for this…I don’t wear it on my … [Read more...]
Be Spontaneous-Plan Well But Leave Some Room To Explore What You Find Along The Way
As I’ve said in so many of my blog posts, with any road trip, good planning is essential. However, it’s always a good idea to leave room for a little spontaneity. Some of our most unique and memorable experiences are things we didn’t plan, but sort of stumbled upon along the way. Here are a few ideas to help you find some adventure behind an unexpected corner… In hotel lobbies and even some … [Read more...]
For Smooth Sailing, Buddy Up!
When I first started taking road trips, it was important for me as a single parent to go with another mom or travel buddy. If you are a single parent planning a road trip there are many reasons to travel with another adult and maybe a few more kids. Having a co-pilot in the passenger seat as well as other kids to keep your own busy can make the whole trip more pleasurable for all involved. Safety should always be … [Read more...]
Navigating Car Rentals
What you need to know before you drive Finding a great car rental is one of the most important elements of your trip. After all, you’ll be spending hours in that vehicle getting from place to place, so you want your ride to be nice, big enough for you and your gear, and reliable—all of course at the best possible price. Here are some tips I’ve learned over my numerous road trips (and car rentals) to help you … [Read more...]