Packing for a five-day road trip with six friends in one car? Challenge accepted. With a duffel bag in tow and a meticulously crafted packing list (complete with way too many swimsuits for a not-so-warm forecast), we hit the road, heading toward California for an adventure packed with Disneyland magic, beach days, and unexpected detours.
The Journey Begins
Early morning goodbyes and last-minute outfit decisions set the tone for our 10-hour drive—though, let’s be real, we were on the road for closer to 12. Stops in St. George, Vegas gas stations, and questionable roadside naps were all part of the experience. And yes, Campbell may have veered off the road at one point, but we survived.
After what felt like an eternity, we finally arrived at our Airbnb… only to turn around and book a hotel instead. Travel lesson of the day: always read the fine print before booking a place to stay. But hey, rolling with the punches is part of the adventure, right?
Disneyland: Where Even the Skeptics Convert
Though some in our group claimed they weren’t hardcore Disney fans, all skepticism faded as soon as we stepped through the gates. Matching sweatpants may or may not have been purchased, and any residual doubts about Disney magic quickly disappeared.
From racing through Space Mountain to indulging in all the overpriced snacks (because churros at Disneyland just hit different), it was the kind of day that felt frozen in time. There’s something about screaming on roller coasters and wandering through fantasy lands that makes you feel like a kid again.
The Beach, Shopping Sprees, and Late-Night Shenanigans
After Disneyland, we swapped mouse ears for sandy toes and spent the rest of the trip soaking up California’s coastal charm. The beach was perfection, even if the ocean was freezing (pro tip: jumping in still feels worth it).
Shopping excursions led to unexpected fashion finds—Brandy Melville got the best of us. We even managed to squeeze in some impromptu photo shoots, proving that good lighting and coordinated outfits make for peak Instagram moments.
Of course, no trip is complete without a chaotic final night. Between card games, last-minute outfit swaps, and an ill-fated attempt to find a decent public restroom (spoiler: we ended up in a dive bar just to use their bathroom), it was the kind of send-off that made us wish for just one more day.
The Long Drive Home
All good things must come to an end, and our 10-hour drive home loomed over us. With sleepy faces and bags packed to the brim, we hit the road before sunrise, already reminiscing about the whirlwind adventure behind us. The car was quieter this time—probably from sheer exhaustion—but the memories of this trip will stay with us long after the last suitcase is unpacked.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the places you go—it’s about the moments you share along the way.
Here’s an article about what the Disneyland resort has to offer.
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