Special to SW Rankin News
Road trips can create memories to last a lifetime. No matter how many songs may be downloaded on your phone or how interesting your passengers are, boredom can strike after a few hours in the car. With that in mind, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) offers tips to make your next road trip as comfortable as possible.
“Road trips can be fun for the whole family, but long hours on road can be draining for all,” said Melinda McGrath, P.E., MDOT Executive Director. “Packing a few items to keep drivers and passengers comfortable is always a great idea.”
When packing for your next trip, consider items to entertain each passenger depending on age and interests. Books and magazines can serve as great ways to make the time pass. Crossword puzzles or word searches can keep minds active as well. Drive boredom away by turning on a podcast. To accommodate children, include a coloring book or a small hand-held gaming device to keep them content for miles at a time.
Classic travel games such as “20 Questions” or “I-Spy” are other options that will keep passengers entertained.
In addition to entertainment on your next road trip, consider packing: water and snacks, maybe even a little caffeine for those long stretches on the highway; blankets and pillows so passengers can nap comfortably; Tissues, disinfectant wipes and paper towels; A cell phone charger; and for safety, include face masks, gloves and hand sanitizer.
“Having comfortable passengers, especially when traveling with children, makes for relaxed and focused drivers,” McGrath said. “Always make sure to drive smart and pay attention to arrive safely at your destination.”
For longer road trips, remember to take breaks and stretch your legs every couple of hours.
In addition to these road trip tips, MDOT encourages you to know before you go. Check with you destination for any local regulations related to the COVID-19 pandemic. You can also access real-time road conditions by visiting MDOTtraffic.com or downloading the MDOT Traffic mobile app. These two resources keep travelers updated and help you navigate to the nearest rest stops, all of which remain open and on enhanced cleaning protocols.
Use MDOTtraffic.com to avoid construction zones and traffic delays too. Download the MDOT Traffic App to access real-time traffic information on the go.
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