Dropping everything to take a last-minute vacation may not seem realistic—especially if you have a full plate at work, a couple of kids in school, or a dog on the honor roll. But if you’ve got a set of wheels, a vacation doesn’t have to be a big to-do. Hit the road with an open mind and a sense of adventure, and we think you’ll be surprised at all of the things to do you find along the way. Here’s how get the most out of a weekend with our road trip planner.

Start Planning

Your destination might be close to home, but research your trip with the eyes of a traveler. By prepping for your trip the way you might for an international getaway, you might discover some hidden gems that’ve been next door all along.

Tips:

• Scout, an app for iOS and Android can help you plan your route, find fun pit stops, and fill up on the cheapest gas along the way.
• An old-fashioned paper map can be good to have on hand in case you get far enough away for your cell signal to drop out.

Make the Ride Fun

With a road trip, getting there is the fun part. Roll the windows down, let in the breeze, and don’t you dare leave without a fully loaded MP3 player. In addition to music, there are thousands of podcasts out there to keep everyone entertained. Pack a cooler or a bag of snacks to share, too, so hanger doesn’t threaten an otherwise pleasant journey.

Tips:

• Family-friendly shows like Sawbones, a medical history show, and Storynory, a collection of kid-approved tales, provide all-ages entertainment.
• Adults and older kids can get away with the themed stories of This American Life or even spookier fare like The Black Tapes, a deeply creepy podcast about the paranormal.

Try Something New

It’s hard not to get into an adventurous spirit on a road trip, making it the perfect excuse to do something you’ve always wanted to do. Dreamed of skydiving? A short drive (and a brave face) can make your dream come true. Hot-air balloon rides can give you a fresh perspective along with shiny new memories.

Tips:

• The explosion of microbreweries in the last decade or so means planning your own brewery road trip is easier (and more delicious) than ever.
• Eat at local restaurants and try foods you’ve never had. See if there’s great sushi or African cuisine where you’re headed and let your taste buds go wild.