Texans Share Their Funniest Go-To Road Trip Phrases

Every family road trip has two things: gas station snacks and that one phrase someone in the car always says. 

I just got back from a road trip to Austin and San Antonio with my son, and I realized I’ve officially entered road trip mom mode. There are exactly two things I do every single time I hit the road:

1. I point out every single cow I see. Like, it doesn’t matter how many herds we’ve passed already, I’ll still say “LOOK, COWS!” like it’s the first time I’ve ever seen livestock.
2. When we’re on the way back and I spot those glorious green highway signs that say “San Antonio exit here” or “El Paso exit here”, I always look at my son and ask, “Should we turn back?” knowing dang well we’re not turning around. I just can’t help it. It’s tradition at this point!

I knew I wasn't alone when it came to those go-to phrases we all say, or we hear, in the car whenever we’re on a road trip. So I asked the people of El Paso: What’s the one phrase you or someone in your car always says on a road trip? And I have never felt more seen in my life! 

Get our free mobile app

Here are some of the most hilarious things El Pasoans say while on the road:

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

• “Ooohhh nice truck/car” — Denny Fierro appreciates the classics.
• “Ugh I’m bored.” — Grace Soto’s kids, every 15 minutes.
• “Where are we?!” — Kiki Campo, lost since mile marker 42.
• “I have to pee” / “I need to use the restroom” — Andrea, Iss, and Jose all know the struggle.
• “Rest area coming up, anyone need the bathroom?” — Always.
• “My stomach hurts!” — We blame the gas station cheese sticks.
• Honk through the tunnel — Monica Silva, keeping traditions alive.
• “I’ve never seen a living soul here…” — Ricardo in creepy Orogrande.
• “The thing! THE THING!!!” — Eduardo knows.

READ MORE RESPONSES HERE: