Road trips are all about fun, freedom, and adventure, and planning for your first trip can be incredibly exciting but also slightly nerve-wracking. You want this trip to be everything you expected and more. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for an awesome road trip.
Pick a Suitable Destination
You don’t need to drive halfway across the country to experience an epic road trip. In fact, sticking to destinations closer to home can relieve the stress of driving and reduce fatigue. Picking a place that is far away is doable if you are road tripping with friends who also drive. Create an informal rota to make sure everyone pulls their weight in the driver’s seat. This way, everyone gets to enjoy a relaxed drive and have time to experience the journey as a passenger too.
Create a Route
Everyone knows that a good road trip is all about the journey, so take your time driving to the destination. Plan a route along the back roads and opt for the scenic route wherever possible. In addition, create a loose itinerary that includes practical stops along the way. Brief stops give you a chance to stretch your legs and swap over if you are driving in a group. Every two hours, drivers should take a 15-minute break. Not to mention, driving for over 8 hours per day is overdoing it—especially for your first trip. Driving for too long can decrease concentration levels, increase sleepiness and reduce your reaction times.
Check Your Ride
Before you even think about driving off, make sure you check your filters, tire pressure, and fluid levels. If you don’t really know what you’re looking for, it is worth taking your car to a garage or asking a car-enthused friend to give it a once over before you go. By being proactive and taking preventive measures, you can reduce your chance of breaking down mid-trip.
Take Medical Supplies
A first aid kit is useful to keep in any car, whether you are going on a trip or not. You never know what might happen while you’re on the road, so make sure you prepare for medical emergencies. You are going to be spending a long time in your car, and first aid supplies can help you treat any minor and major injuries that might occur.
Prepare for Emergencies
When you’re planning for an awesome trip, make sure you prepare for all possibilities. In addition to medical supplies, make sure you pack a tire repair kit and an emergency roadside kit too. Furthermore, get familiar with the contents of these kits to make sure you know what to do with them should you run into trouble.
Pack Light
It might be tempting to fill your car with all of your worldly possessions, especially if you have extra space in the trunk. However, packing light has many benefits. It can save you gas, stop your bags from obstructing your view, and it also means you won’t have to lug around heavy suitcases to each hotel you book into.
