Are you planning on taking a road trip soon? Whether it’s your first road trip or you’ve become a master road tripper by now, there are a few things you should keep in mind before hitting the road.
Here are 10 essential tips for YOUR NEXT road trip!
Do Your Research
First, determine your pace – how long do you want to be driving between each stop? What’s the maximum amount of time that you want to be where you’re staying that night?
Then, research the stops you want to make along the way. But also be open to unexpected stops in case you find some fun detours or some cool restaurants you want to check out. Give yourself a little wiggle room in your schedule for unexpected traffic as well.
Take into account the rush hour times in the morning and evening and try to avoid driving during those times or find an alternate route.
Bring the Basics
- Comfy clothes
- Phone chargers for the car
- Water
- Snacks
- Important documents for the car (registration, Insurance, license, etc)
Create a Playlist
Do this ahead of time! Download songs to your phone so you don’t have to worry about trying to find songs on the radio. It makes the drive a whole lot easier when you’re jamming to good music!
If you’re still working with CDs, that’s fine too. No judgment here! I still have CDs in MY car! Just make sure to bring them with you in case you find yourself without cell reception during your trip.
Cash is King
Always have cash on hand! Let’s say you stop in a small town and the gas station doesn’t accept credit cards and then their ATM isn’t working…you will be glad that you had cash with you.
Maps
I know nowadays we all rely HEAVILY on our phones and technology, but in case your digital technology acts up and you can’t access Google Maps, it’s not a bad idea to have a printed paper map as a backup, just in case!
Fuel Up
Don’t delay filling up on gas during the trip, just in case you have a hard time finding gas stations along the way. Don’t wait till you’re almost on empty to try to find a gas station because depending on the route, gas stations are sometimes hard to come by. Better to be on the safe side!
Also, fill up the tank before you start on your journey.
Make Sure Your Car is Road Trip Ready
Before you hit the road, get the car inspected. You don’t want to be driving a bad car.
At the very LEAST, check the car yourself.
- Check tire pressure
- Check the oil and take it in to a professional for an oil change if it’s time to do one (or add the oil yourself)
- Take a look at your battery and make sure it’s damage-free
- Add wiper fluid
- Check lights
Safety/Emergency Kits
Bring any medicine you may need during your trip and include a first aid kit.
Pack an emergency kit that includes: a spare tire, jumper cables, flashlight, paper towels, and toilet paper.
Rest Stops
Plan rest stops to stretch your legs. And if you’re staying hydrated with that water you brought with you, you’re probably going to make bathroom stops anyway!
Take advantage of the rest stops to switch with your partner or friend to take turns driving. This way, the driver won’t get extremely tired.
Have Fun and Take Pictures
Road trips are supposed to be fun! Enjoy the journey and take pictures to remember the moment! :):)
These Instax Mini cameras are a fun way to capture photos with a cool retro look.
Hope these 10 essential tips for your next road trip were helpful! I also put together a guide for What to Pack for a Summer Road Trip.
Where are you heading this summer? Let me know in the comments below!
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