Image courtesy of Latina Moms.
“Look at life through the windshield, not the rearview mirror”, Byrd Baggett once said.
There is nothing like the excitement and anticipation of a vacation you have been looking forward to for months. It is that build-up of emotion that we cherish the most in hindsight — the last-minute trips to CVS for toiletries and the planning of your itinerary are memories you will forever remember.
Going on a road trip has a certain edge over catching flights. I feel as if you get to see more of the world like this. Those pit stops in a random town in the middle of the day bring about discoveries you cannot easily find on a Youtube video.
After you have prepared for everything and have your bags ready to go, it is also essential to compile the ultimate playlist for your family road trip.
Who can drive with just the radio playing in the background?
When coming up with a playlist, it is important to consider everyone who will be traveling. You can’t expect to play “Let It Go” the entire way or the entirety of Maluma’s music compilation without wanting to gouge out your eyes.
Lucky for you, I have come up with a playlist that will suit a wide variety of musical tastes.
‘Unwritten’ by Natasha Bedingfield
Every time I hear this song, my inner teenaged millennial heart rejoices. Besides the fact that it reminds me of ‘The Hills’ intro song, Unwritten is an anthem for those taking control of their lives and going down their chosen path.
This is probably my favorite song to play during a road trip, as there is something liberating about it and driving down unknown roads.
‘Hey Ya’ by Outkast
At some point during a road trip, you may feel worn down and tired, anxious to just arrive at your destination and get out of the car.
This song is known to lift spirits and makes you want to dance as if no one is watching. I’ve yet to go to a party that doesn’t burst out singing and dancing once this song comes on. Need I say more?
‘Asereje’ by Las Ketchup
While our Latina moms thought this song was about worshiping the devil, you cannot deny that it is a classic that can get anyone singing or dancing.
Instead of focusing on these conspiracy theories, let’s focus on the upbeat and lighthearted nature of the song, the ultimate goal of a family road trip.
‘You’ve Got a Friend in Me’ by Randy Newman
This Toy Story classic, ‘You’ve Got a Friend in Me,’ is the perfect song to make your children feel like we acknowledge them. This song doesn’t allow our children to feel alone, and it will help them see that the road trip would be nothing without them.
‘To My Love (Tainy Remix)’ by Bomba Estereo
This is an upbeat love song by Bomba Estereo featuring Tainy. The tunes and melodies transport one into a tropical oasis. Picture yourself walking down the beach and listening to the sound of waves crashing ashore.
Pack your bags and get ready to enjoy your next family vacation!