Whether you like it or not, it’s happened to you, and it’s most likely going to happen again. Getting stuck in traffic is like a rite of passage for all drivers out there, especially if you’ve taken the 401 in Ontario or Highway 40 in Montreal. It can be due to construction, weather, a collision or simply because of traffic in general; but one thing’s for sure: it can be pretty boring.
CARFAX Canada understands this, and we want to help. Now, we can’t stress this enough: this is for when either you’re a passenger, or if you’re pulled over to the side of the road, out of the way of other cars/traffic – the last thing we want is a distracted driver. Here’s a handy list of things to do to pass the time; hopefully you don’t have to do them all in one sitting.
1. Bust out your Karaoke chops
Look, we’re not Adele, or Seal, or Cher, or Beyoncé. But that doesn’t stop us from belting out tunes. Plus, it may not be scientifically proven, but your voice sounds better when you’re stuck in your car.
2. Play the license plate abbreviation game
You look in front of you, the plate reads: AABB 123. What does it stand for? Always Avenging Beakless Birds? Or maybe it’s Angry Antelopes Bathe Briskly. Either way, it’s a good way to pass the time, and probably get a few laughs.
3. Make the person/people in the car next to you laugh
This one is much easier, and better, with a buddy. Without making it look like you’re trying to, see if you can not only catch your traffic-jam-neighbour’s attention, but also make them laugh. Bonus points if they roll down their window to ask what you’re doing.
4. Switch it up with a podcast
Whether you’re listening to music, or already have a podcast playing, try starting a new series. Who knows, you might stumble across one you absolutely love, or you might find one that you can argue with. Either way, it will definitely pass some time.
5. Clean up the general area around your seat
There’s probably a good chance that there’s some trash or food that can be scooped up and tossed in a bag. The real trick is to remember to throw that bag out and not let it sit and become the garbage itself.
6. Do some car exercises
Most likely you don’t have dumbbells or tension bands handy in your car, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do some exercises. Clench your abs, stretch your wrists or do arm circles. You can probably pair doing arm circles with the third tip on this list and be successful at both! #lifehack
7. Start a round of I-Spy
This one pretty much needs a buddy. It’s a classic car game that, so long as you’re not sitting beside two wheat fields, it can eat up a good amount of time.
8. Become a champion of 20 Questions
Another that requires at least one other person. Players have 20 chances to guess the person, place or thing you’re thinking of. Pro tip for the competitive types: stray off the beaten path and choose car brands or celebrities that nobody has really ever heard of; the people you’re playing with probably won’t be too happy, but you’ll for sure win!
9. Phone a friend
Misery loves company! Call a friend or family member you know that you can chat hands-free with for the duration of the traffic jam. It’s always good to catch up with people!
Nobody wants to be sitting in a traffic jam, but hopefully, with these tips, you’re able to at least make the best of it. The most important tip of all though: pay attention to the traffic around you! The games and advice may be fun to do, but driving is always your top priority.
