Did you miss out on your road trip because of the traffic? You’re not alone

In fact, millions of drivers have. Because driving along the mountains or the coast might seem the perfect occasion to take in the scenery and make the greatest memories, but you -- as millions of other drivers -- can easily get distracted by the road conditions, traffic, or the other passengers.

A poll study of 2,000 motorists showed that more than 70% of them have arrived at their dream destination without even remembering what they have seen along the way. Is this normal? Well, millions of drivers miss out on views and memories as they focus on the navigation system, avoiding roadworks or simply being distracted by traffic. But that's not all. There are other common distractions like stressing about how much fuel the car has, what are those engine noises, and also chatting with other passengers in the car. The study also showed that 25% of drivers don't really pay attention to what is surrounding them when they drive - as they should of course - but miss the scenery. Moreover, almost half of the respondents said that taking breaks helps them focus on driving and the journey, while the other half depend on planning or being acquainted with the way and actually ensuring they get enough rest and feed themselves before going further.

Dr. Martha Newson who is a cognitive scientist and who just partnered with Hyundai (by the way she commissioned this research) declared that “Part of what holds us together as families, communities or society are the memories that shape us, and being able to reflect on our most defining experiences together." It's been a while since the world has traveled without the fear of a virus or being in lockdown, so people are in general keen to make new memories. She also adds that more than 20% of the respondents said that they would like to be more present in the now, making significant memories during a journey.

People don't just want to get from A to B anymore, instead, they need and want to experience the complexity and the beauty of a journey. So, it's more about being with others, sharing memories, and quality time with your friends and family. In the same study, 34% of drivers remember a journey when they have traveled with others and are not alone. 30% of them said that the most notable memory from the aforementioned driving trips in the past is the people they traveled with, and the same number said that they remember the stunning views.

Regarding the views, those who remember them say they passed famous landmarks and others mention that they remembered only the destination. But when asked about what sounds they associate with the journey, 38% said that it is the sound of engine, 36% the sound of radio and only 16% the sound of the environment. The poll also shows that more than one in five drivers feel that having an electric car would create more chances for memories, and planning the journey let the driver not focus on the navigation system but enjoy the road. Some even say that the driving experience is nicer than with other cars. But drivers are content to drive more than 2 hours before feeling the need to take a break.

In fact, 50% of drivers also stop for toilet breaks and 37% of them prefer to stop and stretch their legs. It's only 28% of drivers stop for scenic viewpoints, and 26% of them 26% will stop at a café. This research shows that coastal routes, mountain sights, and fine weather conditions are some of the things drivers believe to create a unique journey. Surely, having a nice trip along a lake or a big river and passing through fairytale villages or amazing natural parks counts for a memorable experience.

What can make your journey more memorable?