The 5 Qualities of a Good Road trip Co-Pilot

The Prime Adventure boys have been on road trips encompassing almost 20,000 miles of driving together.  Through all of those miles of just two people trapped in a metal box, we have yet to get tired of each other. So, what is our secret?

Well it is obviously our pure understanding of what your role is when you are the driver and when you are the co-pilot.

The driver’s primary task is getting you safely to your destination but perhaps the responsibilities of the co-pilot is more important.

So what are the exact qualities of a good co-pilot?

1) Navigator

Getting from point A to point B in a safe and timely manner is obviously the number one priority. While the passenger may not be the one directly behind the wheel, they still play a pivotal role in assisting the driver.

While it may seem like an easy task keeping the driver updated on the distance in between turns, as the navigator  you have to be attentive and quick on your feet. This is not a skill that just anyone has.

2) DJ

So this is an interesting one, especially if you have differing music tastes. A road trip is not complete without some accompanying jams.

Throughout all the time that we have been together we have learned that our musical tastes are very different, but we have also learned to compromise and find some common ground. Try alternating between song choices; let the driver pick a song and then you pick a song.

The music played on the radio sets the tone for the trip and on a late night journey, music can help keep that driver focused and alert.

3) Entertainer

It seems that on almost every road trip there is always that one day that you end up waking up really early or driving really late at night.

When you are driving at these crucial hours, the driver needs the co-pilot just as alert and ready as they are. Keeping the driver engaged in conversation is key to keeping your brain running, which in turn keeps you awake and focused on the road.

4) Planner

One thing the driver should never do is look at their phone while driving.

On a long trip where you’ll need food stops, it is the co-pilot’s job to find a good place to find some chow at the nearest local eatery or at your traditional roadside fast food joint.

The planner is also charged with locating restrooms, fuel, attractions, and places to stay as needed.

5) Photographer

When you are driving along the scenic roads, you are bound to see views that you want to capture for later. As a co-pilot it is your job to capture these moments.

So what does this all this boil down to? The co-pilots job description is simply keeping the driver focused and relaxed on the road.

There are not many people in the world that I know I would want to travel 20,000 miles in a car with, but with a good friend who doubles as a good copilot, this task becomes bearable.

Happy road tripping!