Summertime is the perfect opportunity for a beachy getaway and fun in the sun. But what most people often overlook is the journey itself—part of that vacation excitement is the act of traveling to your destination. Road trips are among the most popular ways to get out of your immediate vicinity and explore what surrounding regions have to offer. If you’re still on the fence about taking an outing of your own, here are a few of the top reasons to take a road trip as your next vacation.

See the World

Road-tripping allows you to see breathtaking sights—some even in your own backyard. A one-way trip away from home will widen your horizons and expose you to the natural beauty within driving distance. In fact, many U.S. highways feature scenic routes, mountaintop rest stops, and tourist sites, all for your enjoyment. This is a great way to familiarize yourself with local wonders as well as famous attractions along the way.

Try Something New

Since you don’t have time constraints, you have the freedom to stop at your leisure and take alternate routes. Imagine that you’re driving along the coast or winding down a mountain pass. You could stop at the beach for an hour or pull over for a quick hike in a forest preserve. Road trips afford you the leeway to stop and smell the roses, so try something new you would otherwise drive past.

Save Some Cash

Shockingly, summer road trips can save you money in the long run. Though you need a sizeable budget for gas, this cost is significantly less than that of a plane ticket, luggage cost, and parking spot at an airport. With the funds you save, you could even add another few days to your hotel or splurge a bit more at restaurants along the way.

Rest and Rejuvenate

Above all, road trips are very effective at giving you the space to rest and rejuvenate. Road trips physically remove the source of your stress while limiting additional distressing triggers. Flying is a thorny knot of vacation stress that causes headache after headache. Forget lost baggage, cramped seats, mean-spirited co-passengers, and stingy snack portions. Treat yourself with much-needed R&R with a go-at-your-own-pace road trip.

Remember these top reasons to take a road trip as your next vacation as you plan your future travels. The next time you take time off work or share a holiday with your family, instead of stepping onto a jet, jump behind the wheel. Before you set off, though, ensure your car is in tip-top shape. You must address all the mechanical essentials, like checking your tire pressure before hitting the road. Then, your next stop will be adventure!