Despite what you see in the news: corrupt politicians, greedy and cold corporations, extreme ideologies, and the Kardashians; we still live in a beautiful country which was built by dreamers. It’s hard today to stay positive about your neighbors and the stranger on the street during these times. But, I have faith in our home and our people. I believe the best of us will shine through the bleak-mongers and we will innovate not only our tech but ourselves. I know this because I have road tripped across the U.S. by myself three times in my life, with each trip grew my appreciation of our home and its people.

The list below is my meandering tips on a road trip across the U.S. So, in no particular order:

1. Do it When Your Broke, Lost, and Now

Each time I made my trek across the U.S. came after a defining moment in my life. The first was after college when I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life. The second was when I was heartbroken over quitting a job I loved because it was hurting me. The third was splendid because I was on my way to Burning Man.

Each time, I did it was when I was broke and lost, but I never regretted any of the trips. I never regretted it because one day I will die and I don’t want my last moments filled with regrets, but memories well earned. To be blunt, we only live once, and nobody knows what’s on the other side. Time is a precious commodity, and you should spend it on what you believe in.

If you have a job and a family, then plan a year ahead for it. If you’re young or young at heart with minimum responsibilities, then go now. Yes, your job is important, but a career won’t always define you, and your boss likely sees you as easily replaceable. So, jump in that car and find something worth living for, while you’re on your way to a destination you haven’t seen, yet. The World is begging to be explored.

2. Do it Alone, with a Friend or Someone You Know You Want to Spend the Rest of Your Life With

If you do it alone, then it will force you out of your comfort zone which is essential to grow into something much more than who you are.

If you do it with a Friend, then you’ll have someone to share the experiences with. The problems and the joys with. Which only makes the road trip even sweeter.

Doing it with someone you love could be the worst idea or the best idea. I met a great guy in a hostel in San Francisco who was on his way back to Thailand to teach English. He met his girlfriend in Thailand, and she came back with him to the States to meet his family and to go on a road trip. They drove across the U.S. for a month before she flew back a few days before we met. With glee and certainty, he said that the road trip with her was the best experience of his life and he decided he was going to marry her. They had good times and bad times on the trip. But each day they’ve gotten closer to each other and decided they never want to be apart.

Single, with a friend or going with someone you love; either way it’s going to create a memory you’ll never forget. My only caution is to do it with someone you do care about and absolutely enjoy being around. Unsure if you should bring this person on a trip? Here is a mental exercise: If you’re stuck in the car with this person for 8 hours, and then the car breaks down, would you want this person with you? If you have to think about it, then go alone.

3. The Car

Your noble steed on this adventure. My first car across the country was a crappy Daewoo Leganza. The second was a 2010 Ford Mustang and third was a 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid. Each one had its flaws and strengths, but all was a bonding experience. There is nothing more personable than an adventurer and his vehicle. It doesn’t matter what brand or style of car you drive. Just make sure you take it to get it serviced before you leave.