A road trip is a timeless adventure in travel. The open road allows us to encounter new and interesting locations not to mention majestic landscapes but there are several details to consider when planning a road trip.
Here are some helpful tips to ensure a successful and memorable experience for drivers and passengers alike.
1. Safety First
It is important to keep up with your vehicle’s scheduled maintenance prior to planning your road trip. Before you leave it is recommended that your vehicle undergo a full preventive maintenance inspection, which includes: checking fluid levels, four wheel tire rotation, brake inspection, and a visual inspection of filters, belts, and hoses.
Checking your vehicles spare tire is also vital. For most vehicles it takes just a few minutes to remove a spare tire and verify the size, tread health, and inflation pressure. Should you need it, you’ll be glad you did.
2. Roadside Emergency Kit
Whether you purchase one or make your own every roadside emergency kit should contain the following basic items: a first aid kit, emergency flare, a fire extinguisher, jack and lug wrench, foam tire sealant, spare fuses, jumper cables, and a flashlight.
Before you leave double check the contents of your emergency kit and replace any missing items. It is also a good idea to replace flashlight batteries and store an extra pack with your emergency kit.
3. Auto Insurance
Every driver should be familiar with his or her car insurance coverage and policy information. Depending on your destination you may even need to add to coverage for the duration of your road trip.
In any case since most car insurance companies also offer roadside assistance programs, travel insurance, and travel planning services, contacting your insurance provider is a great cost-effective way to plan your trip while receiving added peace of mind.
4. Fun For Everyone
Road trips are meant to be enjoyable for everyone. Whether you are going it alone or with travel companions your music play list should enhance the spirit of your adventure.
Invent a few interactive road games that everyone can play to let the good times roll along with you.
5. Off The Grid
Planned stops are as important as the unplanned ones. Allow plenty of time for you and your passengers to enjoy the scenery outside of the car, too.
Spontaneity keeps everyone involved and enthusiastic while giving the driver opportunities to stretch for the long haul.
6. Capture The Moment
Go beyond the camera with a well-placed web cam, video recorder, or daily blog post to chronicle your road trip and stay in touch with those that stayed behind.
Video footage and still photos can be combined easily for a travel montage once you return home.
7.Take A Load Off
Packing lightly will provide room and comfort inside your vehicle and maximize fuel efficiency during the drive.
It is important, however, to know what to bring so before you load your vehicle make a visual checklist of your gear and prioritize items you’ll actually need for the trip.
8. Munchies, Maps, and Mantles
Choose snacks that optimize energy and hydrate. Remember to keep drinking water on hand and plan to reload those supplies during major stops.
GPS systems and mobile phones make road travel more efficient but it is a good idea to know your route ahead of time and keep backup maps in the glove compartment should you lose wireless reception.
One final note, “Dress for the weather but pack in layers.” The main advantage is staying comfortable in any weather but in keeping your cargo light there will also be room for those unexpected purchases along the way.
Post tags: Tags: car insurance, planning a roadtrip, Road Trip Guide, Road Trip Survival Guide, roadtrip insurance, roadtrip safety
