On Friday we drive from Chicago to Sarasota, 2 days down, and then the following weekend 3 days back (will stop in Macon to visit a cousin on the way back who has horses for the kids to ride around on). I hope for the 5 minute pit stops, but I know they will turn into 20 minutes magically. As long as the minivan makes it back in one piece I will be happy.
It's all in how you structure them. I try to limit the stops at gas stations if someone just needs to pee. That is an automatic 15 minute stop, because people start browsing around and needs a snack or whatever........too many distractions in a gas station.
Just pee stops HAVE to be at rest areas. Easy on/Easy off. Come in hot - make sure you tell the kids as you are coming in to get off the devices, put on shoes, etc. They can do that while the vehicle is in motion. That saves two minutes EASY. (I like to do this about 5 minutes before I know the stop is coming).
That way when they car hits PARK it's effing ON. Out of the car, walk briskly, get 'er done.
I'm like Ricky Bobby out there. My 15 year old son is my Cal Naughton.
SHAKE AND BAKE!!