It’s always exciting when you plan a road trip yet it gets pretty much stressing at some point, to help you get through this long trip across your messed up mind and infinite hesitation, here’s a simple and efficient guide packed up with practical tips.
1. Where do you want to go ?
Decide on Your destination : The Stunning coastal cliffs, Santa Barbara, Route 66, The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Maybe Australia and its Great Ocean Road, Or you would Prefer Europe, the Italian Coast of Amalfi and the beautiful Garden of Ravello, so much places to explore yet the main idea here is to focus exactly on where do you want to go, it seems kinda obvious but it’s also the first step you’ll go through.
Plan for Stops : Choosing where to go is fun but you have to explore you map more to schedule regular breaks to stretch up a little bit, driving on longue distances is tiring so preparing moments of rest will help keep you and your travel companions safe comfortable and alert, it would also give you few moments to chill together and do nothing but rest and have a good snack and also refuel.
2. Prepare You Vehicle
Catch up with your mechanic : Even if you’re confident about it, it’s better if you ensure that your Tarmac Tickler is in good condition, Pay attention to the breaks, Tires, Oil and fluid Level
Pack a Health Kit : You never know what could happen, so the first and most important item you could pick up is a Spare Tire, Jack Jumper Cables, First-Aid Kit, Flashlight with extra batteries, please don’t forget the batteries, even a pair could save your day, also basic tools .
be aware of any road side assistance numbers you could need.
3. Pack Efficentily
Priorities: You need essential items, extra clothes, toiletries, medication, extra chargers, make a checklist to ensure you won’t forget anything important
Snacks and Drinks: Pack a variety of healthy snacks and water to stay hydrated, of course you’re gonna buy some extra, but it’s gonna cost you less if you plan it and buy some before, will also make you save time on road.
Entertainment : Traveling is cool but, you know, sometimes you just want to watch something, as addicted to our screens we are, poor us, Download Music or Movies, Legally ofc we see you there 😉 , Podcasts, audiobooks if you prefer reading, you can also take a book, or a portable gaming console, the brain loves to be distracted so give it it’s share of dopamine and it’ll reward you by staying sharp for your trip.
4.Save on Costs
Budget for Gas : Ahhh Driving, the road, the feeling of the engine starting, the familiar smell of your vehicle, and that nasty fuel gauge going empty, you can use apps like Gas-Buddy to find the cheapest gas stations along your route, Better plan you fuel stop it will also help you avoid the high prices in remote areas.
Accommodations: You always need to sleep somewhere, unless you have a 5 Star Hotel on wheels, try to look for budget-friendly lodging options, hostels, motels, or even campgrounds, booking in advance can save you money in some cases.
Food: Take a cooler with you, it’s gonna come you handy for packing meals and snacks, could carry on some leftovers depending on the model, optimal for picnics in parks and stacking food on the way, maybe Xzibit installed a fridge in your ride so you won’t need any of these.
5. Stay Safe and Comfortable
Follow Speed Limits: Safety is important especially on the asphalt, so please, adhere to speed limitation, it’ll avoid you unwanted fines and ensure your safety, speeding can also decrease your fuel efficiency.
Rest : If you drive, always remember to take breaks every two hours, if your travelling buddies have a license, you can go on shifts to optimize your travel time, rotations as many as capable buddies you have in your adventure party.
Health : Good things to take with you, masks, hand sanitizers, disinfecting wipes, and try to be aware of any restrictions or guidelines in the areas you plan to visit
6. Technology is your best friend
Navigation : Stay on track using GPS and navigation maps, would be also more optimal if you planned your itinerary before, to get sure you drive on the best routes
Weather : Nature can be very unpredictable, so keep an eye on your Weather App to avoid any hazardous conditions.
7.Final Checklist
After you planned everything, before even starting to think about getting in your Space Ship Double check the following :
- Emergency Contact Numbers
- Vehicle documents ( Driver’s License, Insurance, Registration)
- Packed Items (luggage, snacks, entertainment, emergency stuff )
- Vehicle Readiness ( Fuel, Tire pressure, Fluids)
- Travel itinerary, stops, and reservation details
With these simple and efficient tips, you will be prepared to enjoy stress-free and safe roundtrip, have a fantastic journey and time to bond with your friends !
