When I lived outside of the city and had a car, the commute into work was always close to unbearable. I couldn't reach anything in the backseat, I always made a mess of my breakfast and worst of all, I couldn't touch my phone.

Over time, I learned some tricks to make the car ride more bearable. I put my phone in the sun visor for hands free calling, used straws in my coffee so not to spill, and played the radio once in a while for variety from my Spotify playlist. I also learned that smart devices and apps made all the difference — here's six to help you too.

Waze

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Waze is by far the most helpful traffic and map app I've used. Not only does it alert you of ongoing traffic conditions, but also communicates to you about police, crashes and parking spots. The app is free, and more useful than Google Maps or Apple Maps, but its design is also cuter and more informational.

GearBrain Road Trip Gadget Guidewww.youtube.com

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