Are You Road Trip Ready?

Summer in the Midwest is full of sunshine, blue skies, and gorgeous days. Well, for the most part, anyway – we do get some crazy thunderstorms every now and again! But, most will agree that summer is a great time to be outside. Some prefer the comfort of their porch or backyard while others love to be on the water. And then there are those adventurous souls who are always looking to explore new places. For everyone – especially the latter – road trips are a great way to see the beautiful sights Wisconsin and Upper Michigan have to offer. 

Pack your bags…let’s make some memories! 

1. Compile your Crew 

No road trip is complete without a few fellow explorers to share in the experience. Once you’ve solidified your road trip team, you’re ready to assign roles. 

The title of The Driver should be bestowed upon a responsible, even keeled, focused person. Next, an attentive and engaged member of your team can claim the role of The Navigator. This person sits in the passenger seat and helps direct the course of the vehicle. Pro Tip: the Navigator should also have great taste in music, because everyone knows The Navigator is also The DJ!

The remaining members of your team will get to hang out in the back seat. One of these lucky ducks will assume the role of Snack Distributor in Chief. They’re in charge of handing out snacks evenly among team members…in between naps, that is! 

2. Determine your Destination 

Next, decide where you’re going! Will it be a city of interest, a state park, a beach on the Great Lakes? There are no wrong answers. Plus, there are plenty of scenic points and memorable pitstops to enjoy along the way. Visit sites like www.travelwisconsin.com and midwestliving.com for endless ideas. 

3. Find your Fuel 

Once you’ve got your crew assembled and your route planned, it’s time to fill up the tank — both literally and figuratively. Make a stop at The Store for 100% North American fuel products that will get you where you need to go. With 26 convenient locations throughout Wisconsin and Upper Michigan, you’ll rarely find yourself far from The Store. Pro Tip: join the Impact Rewards+ loyalty program to earn free products and save on the purchases you make every day. Click here to learn how! 

4. Stock Up on Snacks 

While you’re at The Store, don’t forget to pick up snacks for the road. After all, what’s a road trip without snacks? Trail mix, beef jerky, nuts, chips, candy bars, soda, tea, juice, coffee…you name it, The Store’s got it! There are plenty of healthy options, too – learn more by reading our previous blog Healthy Snacks Galore at The Store. 

5. Got Games? 

Ahh – you’re finally on the road. After staring out the window for a while, eating a snack or two, and listening to your favorite song 4 times, you might start to get a bit bored. Never fear – bring excitement to the car ride with these Great Road Trip Games. There are ideas for passengers of every age and interest. Plus, nothing brings people together like some friendly competition! 

6. Play some Podcasts 

If road trip games aren’t your style, we suggest listening to podcasts. There are TONS of podcasts out there covering almost every topic imaginable. News, education, pop culture, sports…the list goes on. There’s something for everyone! A few of our favorites are Travel Wisconsin, All About The Car (a podcast by our friends at Schierl Tire & Service) and The Daily.  

No matter where you go or what you do, we know the true fun of a road trip comes from spending time with those you love. There’s no doubt you’ll have a blast in the beautiful region of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan…we’re just here to make the trip even better. Stop in at The Store for your road trip fuel and snack essentials. We bet you’ll leave with a smile!