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The Manling and I learned some valuable lessons the hard way on our first Texas State Park road trip:
- Water. Stay hydrated. It’s about a thousand degrees in the summertime in Texas. Whatever amount you think you will need to stay hydrated, triple that amount. Seriously. And plan your activities in the hottest months around water – swimming, fishing, tubing, canoeing, paddle boarding. Get wet.
- Shoes. Two things: 1) Get shoes with grippy soles because I’m telling you, you won’t regret them when you hit the trails. These have served me well. 2) Break in your shoes before your trip because blisters are a pain and a real kill joy to exploring all the great state of Texas has to offer!
- Clothing. Pack lightly by making smart fabric and clothing choices. You can wash clothes in the sink and hang dry to rewear on the same trip, which will allow you to pack lighter and save valuable space in the Tiny Toyota Tardis (because the Yaris is bigger on the inside – but even she has her limits, man!) for the important stuff like coolers of water – see #1 above – and fishing gear.
- Maps. iPhones are great and Waze may rock your world in the city, but when you’re traveling the isolated country roads of Texas, have paper back up. You won’t regret kicking it old school when your phone is in an area with no service. Trust us. We bought this inexpensive map the day after we got home.
- Car. We logged almost a thousand miles on our first road trip, three-fourths of which were on tiny, twisty, isolated back roads in Texas. Always get a check up on your car before setting out on your adventures. (At the very least, make sure your tires are good. Firestone will even check your pressure and eyeball your treads for free.)
Bonus Things We Learned
- Research. Check websites before heading out for important things like hours of operation and closures because that kind of stuff can put a real damper on your experience.
- Ask Questions. Especially of the Park Staff. They love their parks and want to ensure that you do, too! Talk to them when you arrive and ask them anything. They are your best resource for planning a most enjoyable experience.
- Consider Products. Let our sunscreen and bug spray be your friends when you’re exploring the outdoors.
- Explore Unhurried. Enjoy living in the moments without the need to stick to a rigid agenda. The unplanned is where the magic happens.