Road trips before the digital age were not just about getting from point A to point B; they were adventures filled with spontaneity, creativity, and connection. Long before smartphones and GPS, families relied on simple pleasures and old-school tools to make the most of the open road.
As a kid from New Jersey in the 1970s, some of my favorite road trips were when all seven of us would pack into the Buick Riviera and head south to see Mickey Mouse. Those trips were filled with fighting, fun, and a lot of random, made-up nonsense to kill time.
Here are some ways road trips were undeniably more fun back in the day—guaranteed to spark nostalgia and bring back cherished memories. Maybe, just maybe, it’s time to bring most of this list back and save the tech for when you arrive home!
Unfolding and Navigating Paper Maps
There was something magical about spreading out a giant map and tracing your finger along the route. Kids from those days will remember the excitement when Mom and Dad pulled it out—because it meant ROAD TRIP!
Sure, it wasn’t always accurate, but that was half the fun. Those colorful folds weren’t just about directions—they represented endless possibilities for detours, adventures, and unexpected discoveries. It’s actually a good idea to still have one of these in your car if you’re planning a trip. You never know when cell service will quit on you or your device batteries will die.
Planning Pit Stops with Road Atlases
Road atlases were another must-have, often filled with quirky landmarks, scenic routes, and hidden gems. Sometimes you could get them for free from places like AAA or your insurance company. Others bought a Rand McNally! Planning a trip was an event in itself, with the whole family gathered around to mark potential stops and dream about the adventures ahead.
Typically, Mom would sit in the passenger seat and shout out directions. Dad would get mad because he missed the turn since Mom called it out too late, and we kids would sit quietly in the back while they yelled at each other. But ultimately, that road atlas would get us from Jersey to Florida, and that was all that mattered!
Playing License Plate Bingo and Road Trip Games
Before tablets kept kids entertained, families relied on classic road trip games like license plate bingo, “I Spy,” and the alphabet game. These simple distractions sparked creativity, laughter, and sometimes even friendly sibling rivalries.
Using CB Radios for Roadside Chatter
“Breaker, breaker, 1-9!” If you had a CB radio in the car, you were part of an exclusive club of road warriors. Connecting with truckers and other travelers brought a sense of community to the journey, along with a few laughs from quirky CB nicknames.
Singing Along to Mixtapes or AM/FM Radio
Whether it was a carefully curated mixtape or a static-filled AM station, the music shaped the vibe of the trip. Everyone had their favorite songs, and singalongs often turned into full-blown car karaoke sessions. The unpredictability of radio added an extra thrill when your favorite song finally played.
Visiting Roadside Diners and Local Restaurants
Fast food was far from the norm. Instead, families stopped at roadside diners or local eateries where they could enjoy homemade meals, chat with friendly locals, and try regional specialties. Every stop felt like a slice of Americana.
Souvenir Shopping at Roadside Attractions
Roadside attractions weren’t just about the sights—they were about the souvenirs. From quirky magnets to snow globes, these keepsakes turned every pit stop into a treasure hunt. Who didn’t have a dashboard or refrigerator decorated with tiny trinkets of all the places you’d been?
Getting Stuck in Car Conversations
With no screens to distract them, families had nothing but time to talk. These conversations ranged from silly jokes to heartfelt stories, creating bonds that lasted long after the trip ended. Sometimes, the car became a space for the deepest and most unexpected discussions.
Keeping Cool with Vent Windows and Hand Fans
Air conditioning wasn’t always an option in the ’60s and ’70s, so families had to get creative. Imagine sitting in a car with seven family members in the heart of summer! It was hot, and tempers would rise. Oh, and the leather seats would get so hot you’d stick to them, making it even more unpleasant.
Wing—or vent—windows were a lifesaver. They could be angled to allow for perfect airflow. When those didn’t cut it, hand fans (or plain old newspapers or magazines) were the next best thing.
Spontaneously Stopping for Scenic Views
Without rigid schedules or digital maps dictating the way, spontaneity ruled. Families pulled over for stunning sunsets, unexpected wildlife sightings, or picturesque picnic spots. These impromptu stops became some of the trip’s most memorable moments.
Staying Entertained with Mad Libs and Puzzles
Books of Mad Libs, crossword puzzles, and word searches were staples of every road trip. Filling in silly blanks or solving puzzles passed the time and brought plenty of laughs to the backseat. This is still a great option for getting kids off devices and being interactive.
When we were kids, there were just a handful of Mad Libs books. Now, there’s a theme for everyone, making it fun for all.
Watching for Billboards Advertising Attractions
Billboards weren’t just advertisements; they were beacons of adventure. Seeing signs for attractions like the “World’s Largest Ball of Yarn” or “Mystery Spot, 10 Miles Ahead” built anticipation and added an air of mystery to the journey.
If you’ve ever traveled south to Florida, the excitement began when you’d see the South of the Border signs! These not only meant you were getting close to Disney World, but they were filled with fun teases about what a stop at South of the Border would bring.
Jotting Down Journals or Postcards
Road trips were about more than the drive—they were about preserving memories. Families stopped to find the perfect postcard or journal to document the trip. Postcards were sent to family and friends, sharing trip details. Journals were filled with stickers, doodles, and writings, allowing the family to look back years later and reminisce about the good times they had together.
Now, we just take selfies. These two things are not the same.
Without apps to find the “best” or “cheapest” stops, families embraced the unknown. Every detour, every unplanned stop, and every wrong turn became part of the adventure. This unpredictability turned each road trip into a truly unique story.
While technology has made travel more convenient, there’s something to be said for the simple joys of a pre-tech road trip. These experiences weren’t just about getting from point A to point B—they were about connecting with loved ones, embracing the journey, and savoring the small moments along the way.
What about your family road trips? What do you miss the most about the pre-tech era? Share your memories in the comments—we’d love to reminisce with you!
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