What is the definitive guide to surviving family road trips according to Meredith Masony?

According to me, the “definitive guide” to surviving family road trips isn’t a neat checklist, it is a mindset:

• Expect bumps in the road: something will go wrong (hello, check engine light and unexpected $400 repair), so build in margin for time, money, and patience.
• Assume chaos, plan loosely, and then roll with it.
• Lean on your community and your partner when things go sideways.
• Keep a sense of humor and a backup “it’s fine” attitude.

What part of road trips stresses you out the most: the prep, the drive, or the unexpected emergencies?