We all spend a lot of time in our cars. Commuting, driving to and from restaurants, vacations, road trips… the list is practically endless. Next to sleeping and working, driving is probably one of the things we spend the most time doing.
But driving can also become monotonous. If you’re used to driving a specific route or are going on a long trip, chances are that you’ll get bored at some point. That’s why we made a list of some ways you can pass the time. However, remember that safety comes first, so stay primarily focused on the road. So here are some road-safe things you can do while driving.
Listen to music
This is a given, we all listen to music while driving, and it’s the go-to way to pass the time. Just make sure the volume isn’t too high as you don’t want it to drown out ambient noise. After all, you still need to be able to hear what’s going on around you.
If you’re not driving alone, make sure to pick something that all of you will enjoy. Yes, the driver gets to pick the music but try to be considerate. You might be in the passenger seat at some point too.
Learn a language
Some people want to be productive all the time, and they see time spent driving as “wasted.” In case you are one of those people, you can always try learning a language. There are plenty of audio-only courses you can play during a long ride, and this isn’t too distracting. You mostly listen and repeat what you hear. So, if you want to brush up on your Spanish or learn Italian while driving, just get a course you’re interested in and go right ahead. Learning a language broadens the mind, so there’s really no reason not to do it.
Listen to audiobooks or self-improvement tracks
Learning and self-improvement while driving doesn’t have to end with languages. There’s no reason you can’t listen to audiobooks during a drive. Whether it’s fiction, a self-improvement book, or something more serious, they’re all at your fingertips. It’s difficult enough to find time to read in these hectic times, so go for this sensible and time-saving alternative.
If you’re driving an hour to work and back, that’s an opportunity to do two hours of “reading” per day you could have missed.
Enjoy the scenery
Why not just sit back and relax during a drive? If you’re taking a long trip, the best thing might be just to rest your eyes on the scenery. Don’t worry about wasting time or being productive. You can play some light tunes and enjoy the sights. No matter where you’re going, there’s bound to be something you’d like to see, so take that opportunity. If you can afford the time, take breaks to really take in your surroundings.
Of course, don’t get too distracted; an occasional glance is fine, but if there’s even a modicum of traffic, keep your eyes on the road.
Stretch occasionally
Yes, this isn’t technically “passing the time” but it’s important for your overall health. If you’re in traffic for too long (especially if it’s rush hour and you’re stuck), your back will probably start to feel a bit stiff, and your left leg might start cramping because of all the stop-start movement. This isn’t only momentarily uncomfortable but can lead to long-term health problems.
So, when you have an opportunity, pull up the handbrake and stretch your shoulders, back, beck, and legs. While you’re stopped, you might as well do some breathing exercises in addition to the physical ones. This might not seem like much, but it will keep you relaxed and better able to handle long drives on a long-term basis.
Wrapping up
There you have it! Some basic tips on what you can do while driving, whether alone or with someone who doesn’t mind sharing that activity. Driving doesn’t have to be boring. You can listen to music, podcasts, audiobooks, learn something or just sit back and enjoy yourself. Just remember that you should still pay attention to the road, far too many accidents happen because people are careless. So, safety first, and enjoy your ride!
