A few (or several) weeks spent traveling through a bunch of cities and states can be an epic adventure, but there’s a lot to remember before you hit the road. Keeping these tips in mind will ensure that you have an even better time.

1. Pack smart

women's bag, suitcase and camera on the outside floor

An extended journey doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to throw your entire suitcase in your closet. Carefully selecting the items you bring and making sure that you’re able to mix and match at least a handful of the pieces, will take your wardrobe a long way. If you can, try to pack fabrics that aren’t prone to wrinkling, like Merino wool, rayon, linen, silk, nylon, and polyester.

2. Bring plenty of games, books, and music

Happy friends on a road trip, dancing in the car

These days, there are so many sources of leisure, and the best part is that most of them can fit in the palm in your hand. Load your phone or tablet up with games and puzzles for easy amusement, and your e-reader with all of those books you’ve been meaning to read, to keep boredom at bay for the longest stretches of the trip. And, with so many streaming services to choose from, like Spotify and Pandora, you can keep grooving for the duration of your journey.

3. Be strategic about bathroom breaks

Male poodle urinating on a tree trunk

When you’re on the highway for long stretches of time, you might not know when the next opportunity to go will come, so take every chance you get, even if you think you can wait. You’ll be thanking yourself later.

4. Stay hydrated and healthy

healthy snack; almonds in a white bowl on the table

Just like when you’re off the road, drinking lots of water and eating the right foods can keep you alert and feeling good for the length of your journey. In particular, almonds and carrots always make for great “brain food.”

5. Make your stops count

women doing yoga outside

It’s great to get to that day’s destination early, but it’s also important to get out of the car to walk around, stretch, and get some fresh air. Try to take a break at least once every two to three hours to shake off the drive and recharge your batteries.