Preparing for Holiday Road Trips

Holiday road trips can be an exciting adventure, offering quality family time, new sights, and a break from the daily grind. However, traveling during the holiday season means planning ahead to ensure a smooth, safe, and comfortable journey. With a little preparation and strategic stops along the way, you can make the trip part of the holiday fun! And if you’re passing through Iowa, make sure to stop at Waspy’s Truck Stop.

1. Plan Your Route and Stop for Refreshments

Mapping out your route ahead of time can save time and reduce stress, especially if you’re traveling with young kids. Plan stops where you can stretch, refuel, and recharge. Waspy’s Truck Stop is an ideal stop for holiday travelers, offering a fully stocked convenience store with snacks, drinks, and last-minute essentials. Waspy’s can be your go-to stop, whether you need a quick snack, a coffee break, or some car supplies.

Tip: Aim to take breaks every 2-3 hours to keep everyone fresh and alert, and plan to make your trip as comfortable as possible.

2. Enjoy a Family Meal at The Feed Mill Restaurant

While snacks are a must-have for the road, taking a break for a sit-down meal can be a wonderful way to recharge. Located right within the Waspy’s Truck Stop complex, The Feed Mill Restaurant is a family-owned eatery offering a range of delicious entrees and sandwiches, plus a salad bar. The restaurant provides both dine-in and carry-out options and features cozy indoor, patio, and bar seating. Enjoy a hearty meal or a relaxing drink at The Feed Mill’s bar before hitting the road again.

Pro Tip: Check The Feed Mill’s open hours (Wednesday through Saturday) to plan your stop for maximum convenience.

3. Keep Your Car Ready with Waspy’s Tire & Service Center

Winter driving can be challenging, so it’s essential to have your car in top condition for your holiday road trip. Waspy’s Tire & Service Center offers a full range of tire services, including tire repair and replacements for all kinds of vehicles—from family cars to semis, trailers, RVs, and even farm equipment. Stopping at Waspy’s for a quick tire check or repair can give you peace of mind for the journey, especially if you’re dealing with winter weather or icy roads.

4. Wash Away Road Grime at Waspy’s Car Wash

Winter roads can leave your car covered in grime, salt, and slush. Keeping your vehicle clean can help prevent long-term damage to the paint and undercarriage and simply makes for a better driving experience. Waspy’s Truck Stop offers a convenient car wash service, making it easy to keep your vehicle looking fresh and ready for the holiday season.

5. In-Car Entertainment for the Kids

Keeping kids entertained on a long drive can be a challenge. Pack a variety of activities to keep them occupied, such as:

• Audiobooks or family-friendly podcasts
• Travel-friendly games, puzzles, and coloring books
• Tablets with pre-downloaded movies or games

Consider preparing a “mystery bag” with small toys or treats to hand out at intervals. It’s a fun way to keep little ones excited and engaged!

6. Plan for an Overnight Stay at Blue Grass Inn & Suites

If your holiday travels require an overnight stay, Blue Grass Inn & Suites is a cozy and family-friendly choice. This comfortable hotel offers an indoor pool, jacuzzi, fitness room, and even a rentable party/conference room for families. It’s a great place to rest up and recharge, ensuring everyone is well-rested before the next leg of your journey.

Booking Tip: During the busy holiday season, it’s wise to reserve your room in advance to secure a relaxing place to stay.

7. Drive Safely and Avoid Peak Traffic

Holiday highways can be busy, so try to plan your travel during off-peak hours to avoid congestion. Check for traffic updates on your GPS, and be prepared to take alternative routes if needed. Staying patient on crowded roads will ensure everyone arrives at their destination safely.

Make Waspy’s Truck Stop Part of Your Family’s Holiday Tradition

With a bit of planning and some helpful stops along the way, holiday road trips can be stress-free and fun for everyone. Whether you need fuel, food, a car wash, or a comfortable place to stay, Waspy’s Truck Stop in Audubon, IA has you covered. Make us part of your holiday journey and experience a trip that’s as enjoyable as the destination. Happy travels!