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Summer is just around the corner, and you know what that means: it’s almost road trip season! I adore road trips and have gone on plenty. There’s nothing quite like a long car trip, especially with friends or family. While I love them, those long hours in the car can get a bit monotonous, so here are some fun ways to pass the time.
Mission Bell Game
This California classic is pretty simple. Every time you see a Mission Bell, shout “Mission Bell!” before anyone else in your car can. Mission Bells are bells placed along El Camino Real that signify the path between Missions and are spaced about a mile apart.
WWYB
“What Would You Be” is what it sounds like. Take turns asking your carpals questions in the format of “If you were a ___, what would you be?” This game is a fun and unique way to connect with and better understand your friends by understanding how they perceive themselves! Neat!
Make a Playlist
More of a pre-trip ritual, this has been a tradition since the 70s. Before you hit the road, create a list of songs on your app of choice, or burn a CD if that’s more your speed. Collaborate with your friends to make a track that everyone can enjoy.
Listen to an audiobook or podcast
Be an intellectual and listen to an audiobook or podcast as you drive, and then discuss what you heard with friends or family once you stop to eat. When I was younger, my family listened to the Series of Unfortunate Events audiobooks when we went on car trips—find whatever book or podcast you resonate with the most.
20 questions
This iconic road trip game entails one person thinking of a specific thing, and the rest of the car trying to figure out what they’re thinking of by asking 20 questions. This one is fun, but can get pretty frustrating for the guesser.
Alphabet Game
Find something corresponding to every letter of the alphabet, in its order. For example, “Audi, bird, cactus.” Whoever finishes first wins!
Enjoy the view
On a road trip, you pass by plenty of different views. Instead of being absorbed in your phone, take time to appreciate the natural world. My favorite activity is to just chill out and watch the landscape pass.
