Long drives are tiring before you even hit the highway if you don't plan ahead. The first step is making sure your car and your body are ready for the trip.

Get enough sleep the night before—at least seven hours—because even a little sleep deprivation can slow your reflexes and make you feel drowsy faster. Pack healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, or granola bars so you're not running on sugar and caffeine alone. Also, keep a bottle of water within easy reach to avoid dehydration, which is a sneaky cause of fatigue.

1. Plan Your Route and Breaks

Instead of just getting in the car and hoping for the best, look at your route in advance and figure out where you'll stop every two to three hours. Rest stops, scenic lookouts, or even grocery stores can work as quick reset points. Frequent breaks aren't just for stretching—they also give your mind a moment to refresh. If you can, step outside, walk around for five minutes, and do a few shoulder rolls or squats to get blood moving again. This quick circulation boost does wonders for keeping you alert once you're back on the road.

2. Keep Your Posture in Check

Good driving posture matters more than most people think. Sit upright with your back supported and adjust your seat so your knees are slightly bent. If you tend to slouch, a small lumbar pillow or rolled-up towel behind your lower back can help. A bad seating position leads to stiff muscles and faster fatigue. Your hands should rest comfortably on the wheel without your shoulders tensing up—relaxed arms mean less energy wasted over hours of driving.

3. Control Your Cabin Environment

Your car's environment can either keep you awake or lull you to sleep. Keep the temperature slightly cool—around 68 to 70°F—because warm air can make you drowsy. Open a window for fresh air now and then, especially if you start feeling foggy. Upbeat music, podcasts, or audiobooks are excellent for mental stimulation, but change them periodically to avoid zoning out. A lively story or playlist helps your brain stay engaged and alert.

4. Eat and Drink Wisely

Large, heavy meals make your body work harder to digest, which leads to sluggishness. Choose light, balanced meals with protein and complex carbs, like a salad with eggs or a wrap with veggies. Stay hydrated, but avoid drinking too much right before a long stretch—nothing interrupts focus like needing an urgent bathroom break. Caffeine can help, but don't overdo it. A small cup of coffee or tea is better than a giant energy drink that leads to a crash later.

5. Recognize Early Warning Signs

The moment you notice frequent yawning, heavy eyelids, or missing road signs, it's time to stop. Don't wait until you're struggling to stay in your lane. Pull over somewhere safe, close your eyes for 10 to 20 minutes, and take a power nap if you need to. Short naps are more effective than pushing through exhaustion, which increases the risk of mistakes.

6. Share the Driving If Possible

If you're traveling with someone else who's licensed, take turns behind the wheel. Switching drivers every few hours allows each person to rest properly and keeps energy levels higher overall. Even if your passenger can't drive, having someone to talk to can break the monotony and help you stay alert.

7. Use Mental Engagement Tricks

Your brain can drift on a quiet road, which leads to drowsiness. Try simple mental games like counting red cars, spotting unique road signs, or recalling song lyrics. These small challenges activate your mind just enough to stay engaged without becoming a distraction.

End Your Trip Safely

Once you've reached your destination, give yourself time to unwind before jumping into other activities. Your body and mind have been in “road mode” for hours, so a few minutes of stretching or a short walk helps you reset. Long-distance driving doesn't have to leave you drained—it just takes planning and good habits. Next time you're heading out for a road trip, use these strategies to stay sharp, enjoy the drive, and arrive feeling ready for whatever comes next.