Before I head overseas for the summer, I’m making a quick stop in my hometown. The problem? I have to drive 16 hours to get there. Even worse, I must endure it alone, with no one to accompany me. In the interest of preparing for this long, lonely drive, I looked for ways to occupy myself. I found some lists on Google. But then, I thought: Why not just make a list of my own?

So here are my tips on how to survive a road trip alone:

1. Pick your tunes

If you don’t like music, please don’t go on a road trip… ever. Music just makes everything better. You can listen. You can sing. You can dance. And don’t worry about people making fun of you because you’re by yourself anyway!

Make sure to burn some CDs and decide on the music ahead of time. This will help you bypass the unnecessary searching for something to listen to. It will also guarantee a safer trip if you’re not constantly looking down at your iPod.

2. Munch on the way

Oh, the wonders of food. Food can make almost anything better. I know that’s what I said about music, but really, food and music are your go-to ways to keep yourself awake while driving.

Before you start your trip, make sure you’ve packed some sustenance for the road. Goodies and snacks help keep you alert, awake and occupied. Not to mention, they fill your grumbling tummy.

3. Notify your friends

What are friends for if not to talk to you on the phone while you’re making a long journey? Notify your friends beforehand that they may receive a phone call from a tired, bored and slightly dramatic friend.

Talking to people can make time fly, and that’s why most of the time, you have somebody with you when driving for several hours. Since this is not one of those times, ask your friends for a favor to entertain you on this ride.

Also, you’ll want to inform your friends and family where you are as a safety precaution.

4. Take quick stretch breaks

Around hour four, you’ll probably experience some stiffness in your legs and back. Make sure to take adequate walking and bathroom breaks. It can become quite uncomfortable staying in the same position for 16 hours, and you’ll want to make sure to breathe some fresh air.

These stretch breaks can take place anywhere: at a gas station, at a rest stop, on the side of the road (but be careful not to get hit, please). You can even take a run around the rest stop just to get your legs moving.

5. You’re almost there!

You’re almost there! Keep telling yourself, “You’re almost there!” While this tactic can work both positively and negatively, it’s still worth a try. Think of all the things you’re going to do when you reach your final destination. Think about how much fun it will be when you get there. Think about how this long, exhausting drive will be well worth it when you get home and find your nieces running into your arms! Imagine your own scenario and how it will feel once you reach your final destination.

These tips may not be for everyone, but they’re still definitely worth a try. I mean, what else do you have to do?