MANSFIELD, OH: In the 1950s and 1960s, the family summer vacation road trip was a tradition that provided a wealth of memories that lasted for a lifetime. With today's rising airplane ticket prices and long security lines, the idea of the summer road trip is enjoying a resurgence among the public. A look at the advantages shows why this mode of vacationing is becoming so popular.

Better Control of Costs
A road trip allows you to better manage your vacation budget. You can choose the distance and where you buy your fuel. You can take advantage of a wider variety of lodging choices along your route. You have room for packing your own snacks and beverages. You avoid the expense of airport food and on-plane mini-meals. You can even purchase a picnic lunch to enjoy on a beach or lake shore at any store you like.

Seeing the Country
The best feature of the summer road trip is the chance to see the varied landscapes from one part of the country to another. Mountains, deserts, plains, lake country and seashores are just a few of the unique geological features that can be encountered along your route. This is often an eye-opening and educational experience for children in the family, one that they will refer to often as they continue their schooling.

More Flexibility
A road trip allows families to change their schedules to take advantage of special attractions they might find along the way. Cell phones make it easy to change plans to extend or shorter your stay at individual stops. A road trip gives travelers a chance to explore byways and side roads that air travelers would never see. Being in control of your own car allows you to stop for meals as desired. It allows families to plan for individual sleep schedules and the recreational needs of younger children.

More Space For Personal Items
A road trip allows you to bring whatever will fit in the trunk or car interior to make your vacation more enjoyable. Bedding items, toys, extra clothing, baby strollers, games or even pets can be packed and brought with you to allow you to feel comfortable and secure even when you're far from home.

Meeting the Locals
Another advantage of a road trip is that you will have more direct contact with the people that live in each area that you visit. This interaction can be an educational experience for both you and the children in your family. You will hear different accents and a variety of customs and manners that may vary greatly from your hometown.

Visiting Historic and Cultural Sites
Traveling by car also allows you to learn about the historic background of areas you are visiting. Various places around the United States have monuments and plaques describing the area's place in history. Some regions may have special cultural attractions, such as Native American exhibitions or pioneer villages. These sites offer a better understanding of the people and events that make up our country, and they will be part of your family's memories for many years to come.

 

Photo Credits: Public Domain