Summer — the season of neighborhood cookouts, popsicle juice dripping down sticky fingers, and road trips. Call us car-zy, but this season brings an abundance of nostalgia, especially when it comes to driving down the highway while blasting The Proclaimers’ “I’m Gonna Be.”

That’s why we’re excited to kick off Hit the Road. In this summer road trip series, we will feature three destinations throughout June, July, and August — each with its own theme. We’ll be talking outdoor adventures, 30-mile getaways, and something for the foodies.

Before you pack your bags, here are some of our recommendations to prepare locally:

🥤 Road trip essentials

Swing by one of these San Diego spots to stock up on snacks, drinks, and coffee to minimize your stops during the road trip.

Barons Market

The Point Loma-founded grocery chain has five locations in San Diego County where you can grab snacks, drinks + to-go meals.

Valet Market, 912 B St., Ste D

The self-serve grocery + convenience store gives shoppers a new, frictionless way to get snacks and essentials as it enters the San Diego market.

Bird Rock Coffee Roasters

This local coffee chain is a great place to fuel up with lattes, cold brew + pastries at one of its eight locations throughout the county.

Bonus: Grab a fun road trip game at Game Empire.

🎶 Create a road trip playlist

Check out these local artists + add some of their tunes to your road trip rotation.

Jason Mraz, “Look For The Good”
blink-182, “NINE”
Frankie J, “Back2Us”

Bonus: Listen to “On with Mario Lopez,” a podcast featuring the Chula Vista native.

🚘 Get your car ready

Check the fluids + car battery. If you notice anything out of the ordinary or need a last-minute oil change before you go, head to one of these local car shops.

Bonita Point 76 Auto Care,1495 East H St., Chula Vista
Del Mar Automotive, 2201 San Dieguito Dr., Del Mar
North Park Auto Repair, 4194 30th St., North Park

Bonus: Find the cheapest places to fill up your gas tank.

🐶 Don’t forget about Fido

Be sure to line up accommodations for your pet while you’re away. Reach out to one of the many local pet sitters or pet boarding facilities. Here are a few:
Camp Run-A-Mutt, 4030 Sports Arena Blvd., Point Loma
Divine Pet Care, serving Mira Mesa + surrounding areas
Sir Wags A Lot, 6256 Stanley Ave., Rolando Village