5 Ways to Stay Alert on a Long Drive
Today, I did a day trip down to Johor. I started driving at 8-ish and reached my destination after three and one half hours. I did my stuff and then drove back to Kuala Lumpur that took 4 hours because of rain along the way.
This kind of driving is quite normal for me and I have been doing so for the past 10 years. However, half the time, I will feel sleepy as driving on the highway is very monotonous. There’s nothing to see except for oil palm trees to your right and left.
Here are some things I do to keep myself awake:
- Sing along to the radio - it helps when you know the lyrics. Otherwise, just pretend you know the lyrics or simply create your own.
- Chewing gums - chew on those gums for as long as you can. Gums have helped kept me awake for hours. Sweets or candies don’t last very long, that’s why I opt for gums.
- Take a nap - stop by a lay-by or rest area and take a nap. A 10 minute nap can do wonders. Trust me.
- Chit chat - if your occupants are not asleep, strike a conversation. Gossips are wonderful sleep-killer. If you are alone, call someone on your mobile phone.
- Slap yourself - when all else fails, slap yourself silly.
xin said,
December 3, 2007 @ 3:56 pm
i think it is easier to stay awake when you are driving alone than someone else driving you. I can never stay awake when i am at the passenger’s seat. hehe so whoever drives me must be someone that can drive alone quietly in long distance
Joanna Lee said,
December 11, 2007 @ 2:30 am
my husband usually drives the first half of the journey and i will take over for the next half. but i believe you would always need someone to talk to or keep your brain alive if not the boredom gets to you