How To Make Your Next Road Trip More Joyful

Last updated on May 19th, 2025 at 07:53 am

So much planning and preparation go into travelling, and sometimes we forget that the whole purpose of discovering the world has wonders, which is to feel that sense of mind and world-expanding joy that only travel can bring. 

However, you’ll be pleased to find out that even if you have got bogged down in all the preparation for your next trip, there are plenty of ways you can make sure you release the joy when you travel. These recommendations are in two main parts: part one, how to make the journey more fun, and part two, how to maximize the joy at your destination.

Part 1: Make the journey more fun

Plan plenty of fun stops 

Often, we want the journey to our destination to be over as quickly as possible so our ‘real’ trip can begin. Yet, the journey can often be the best part of a road trip. The first way to get more joy from your journey is to plan stops with fun in mind. 

Think about scheduling some stops on your road trip to check out the roadside attractions along the way. We love using the Atlas Obscura website to find unique and sometimes bizarre roadside attractions to experience, from The International Banana Museum – Mecca, California, which hosts over 20,000 banana-related items, to The Paper House – Rockport, Massachusetts. A place that, as you may have already guessed from the name, is indeed built and furnished from over 100,000 varnished newspapers. 

Another way you can make the journey part of your trip more joyful is to embrace the time to enjoy some entertainment. There are so many different forms of entertainment that you can do during your journey, especially if you are not the one in the driving seat. 

Games to enjoy

Road trips are a great opportunity for family bonding, and playing games can make the journey even more enjoyable. One classic game is “I Spy,” where players take turns spotting something and giving clues until someone guesses correctly. “20 Questions” is another favorite, where one person thinks of an object, and the rest ask yes-or-no questions to figure it out. License Plate Bingo keeps everyone alert, as players look for license plates from different states or provinces. The Alphabet Game challenges the family to find words starting with each letter of the alphabet, in order, on signs and buildings. For a creative twist, try “Story Chain,” where each person adds a sentence to a made-up story, building an unpredictable and often hilarious tale. These games require little or no supplies and are fun for all ages, making the miles fly by.

Be sure to bring a tablet in case your driver needs a little peace and quiet. Then you’ll be able to enjoy games like Spider Solitaire or Mahjong.

Get some reading time in

Audiobooks are a fantastic way to keep the whole family entertained on road trips, turning long hours in the car into an immersive storytelling adventure. They help pass the time, reduce screen use, and spark imagination, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. With professional narration, sound effects, and engaging plots, audiobooks can captivate listeners of all ages. Family-friendly options like Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling, The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis, or Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White offer timeless stories everyone can enjoy. For something fun and modern, try The Wild Robot by Peter Brown or Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan. Whether you’re laughing, learning, or getting lost in a magical world together, audiobooks make road trips memorable for the whole family.

Part 2: Maximize the joy at your destination 

Look for authentic experiences

To fully experience a local area during a road trip, take time to step off the beaten path and explore what makes each place unique. Start by visiting local diners, cafés, or food trucks to taste regional specialties and support small businesses. Check out community events like farmers’ markets, street fairs, or local festivals, which offer a glimpse into the culture and lifestyle of the area. Chatting with residents can lead to great recommendations for hidden gems, scenic spots, or lesser-known attractions. Nature lovers can hike nearby trails or stop at local parks to enjoy the landscape. Museums, historical sites, and cultural centers also provide rich context about the region’s heritage. By slowing down and engaging with the community, your road trip becomes more than just a journey—it becomes a collection of authentic, unforgettable experiences.

Tailor your trip specifically to your needs

You can also enhance the joy at your destination if you get everyone involved in the travel planning. You might start by making a big list of everything you’d like the campground to offer or activities you’d like to do the local area. Then let everyone pick one or two things. This works well for families, couples, or even friends who travel together. We realized early on that I like to be on the go the whole, while my husband likes to have some downtime at the campground. Now we make sure we have enough time for both.

Make a positive difference

Volunteering while on vacation, often called “voluntourism,” is a meaningful way to give back to the community you’re visiting. Instead of just sightseeing, you can spend part of your trip helping out at local schools, wildlife conservation projects, food banks, or community clean-ups. Many organizations offer short-term opportunities tailored to travelers, allowing you to make a positive impact without committing to a long stay. It’s a great way to connect with locals, learn about different cultures, and return home with a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment. One great volunteer program for RVer’s is Habitat for Humanity’s Care-A-Vanner program, but the opportunities are endless from trail maintenance to beach clean-up days.