Four words: just don't do it.
I kid, I kid!
I fully intended for this post to be a cautionary tale: if you value your friends, don't subject yourselves to hours upon hours of being pent up in too close of quarters on the open, winding road. Someone's bound to get testy, or carsick, or hangry, and who knows how you'll take it out on each other.
But I stand corrected. Although the three of us were hesitant to embark on two back-to-back eight-hour drives, especially as they were bookended by busy work weeks, a friend in need is a friend in need. But what we didn't realize was that we needed this roadtrip just as much as she did, and perhaps even more so. Blessedly, we emerged feeling recalibrated and rejuvenated.
Here's how we did it without killing each other:
Communicate.
Not but forty minutes into our drive, I forgot that I was in charge of navigating and we missed a key exit that cost us an extra thirty minutes. Own up if you made a mistake. Communicate. Sheepish, I asked Leah – are you mad? Do you hate me?
Maybe a little, but I'll be fine in ten minutes, she replied shortly. So I shut up for about ten minutes, and then after that we were all good. I begged out of navigating from then on out though, that's for sure.
Let each other know if you're tired or need to pee even if it's inconvenient. Ask your friend to stay awake if you're feeling groggy. It's all about keeping everyone as comfortable and safe as possible!
Surprise each other.
In preparation, I suggest having everyone buy a variety of snacks and choose an assortment of entertainment separate from one another. This way, there are surprises a'plenty. This is the way to keep toddlers happy on flights, and this is also the way to keep adults happy on roadtrips, yes sirreee.
