Column by J1 reporter Natalia Waller

Unlike the stress of catching a flight, train tracks, and bus schedules, road trips provide full control, a stress-free environment and are affordable. It might be slower, but it brings memories and happy moments in the present. You can see life up close, such as streets, cars, people, buildings, etc. passing by, evoking emotions like awe, disgust, wonder and many more. You could never see such close-up scenery in any other transportation.

During road trips, it’s a world of fun games with your family, such as Slug Bug or I SPY. Road trips provide the perfect place to chat and gossip with friends because the longer the ride, the more information is said. Naps hit differently because of the calming bumps and shakes that rock your body to sleep, or the cushioning seats plus headrest that make sleep come quickly. And of course, the playlist is in your control; nothing beats vibing in the car with music and the windows down. 

Road trips might not be the fastest form of transportation, but they are quite a memorable experience. The freedom, vibes and laughter all add up to an outcome you could never get from some other transportation when traveling.