What to Do When You’re Stuck in Your Car on A Backcountry Roadtrip

Yikes, it’s raining outside and you’re on a roadtrip.

You’re now cooped up in your car and have to figure out how to entertain yourself.

There’s only you (and a dog, in my case) and the car…

What do you do?!

That’s a great question, and one I found myself facing for a little while on my most recent trip to Colorado.

A little afternoon thunderstorm popped up and we had to get in the car for a bit.

That got me thinking…

What about heavy rain for hours?

Maybe heavy rain for days?

As many of you may not know yet, I’m prepping to do this for 6 months to 1 year full-time at the end of next summer.

Here are some ideas for what to do when you’re stuck in your car on a backcountry roadtrip.

8 Things to Do When You’re Stuck in Your Car

This is a growing list, as I guarantee I’ll figure out some new things to do.

1. Play with a deck of cards. You can play a number of games alone or with a partner. A good game of solitaire can make plenty of time go by in the car.
2. Read a book. This is a foolproof way to pass time. Choose something that you consider a guilty pleasure. That will make your time feel luxurious.
3. Take a nap. This is my favorite camping past time. I love taking a nap in the car in the middle of the afternoon. Enjoy the sound of the storm around you!
4. Do some work. I know, I know. Not the most exciting thing to do, but if you get work done while it’s raining you can take more time for yourself when it’s not.
5. Meditate. Use the time to dive deep into your consciousness. Let the sound of the rain outside take you higher into yourself. Be fully present.
6. Clean up a little. The more time you spend in your car, the dirtier it gets. Clean your windows and hard surfaces. Use your vacuum if you have one.
7. Do some much needed grooming. You can take a little wet wipe bath in the car, use a disposable toothbrush, comb your hair. Do some self-care.
8. Brave the rain. Yep, if there’s no lightning and it’s just raining lightly, just take a hike in the rain. Enjoy the sound and feel of the rain on your skin.

It doesn’t have to be a boring suckfest while you’re stuck in the car.

Take advantage of what you have around you!

Miranda & Violet’s Travel Updates

We’re headed to my mom’s in a couple of weekends to spend time with her for her birthday. We’re also going to try to fix my bed. 😊 After that, we’re headed to Montana in November!