There are too many amazing sites to see them all on one outing. That said, you should make it a point to venture out at least once to catch the ones that intrigue you most. While road trips are a great way to get to know the highways and byways, it is important to prepare before embarking. Follow these simple suggestions to make your road trip one you will not soon forget.
Find a Reliable Vehicle
No vacation should be spent in a repair shop or behind a tow truck, so one of the first decisions you want to make is about the car, truck or van you plan to drive. Begin by determining the miles you plan to cover to get a sense of the size and features you will need. Although it might feel like a large portion of the budget goes to securing your wheels, with auto loan rates, you should be able to find the transportation suited to your schedule without breaking the bank. Once you have the fuzzy dice hanging on the rearview mirror, it's time to organize the rest of your trek.
Create a Checklist
Regardless of the direction you set off in, make sure you have included the items you will require while away. It is easy to overlook everyday particulars because they are a part of your daily routine. Remember chargers, prescriptions and lotions that you normally keep sitting on the tabletop at home. In addition, if you will be engaging in specific activities such as mountain biking, hiking or water sports, be sure to throw in all of the gear that accompanies the recreation.
Economize Your Accommodations
One of the simplest ways to save money when you are traveling is to switch up the type of places you stay each night. If you are cruising in a truck or van, consider building a platform bed in the back, or if your car is spacious enough, take along inflatable sleeping pads. Being able to camp for a few dollars a night will allow you to splurge on a more expensive hotel when you are ready for a solid roof over your head.
Pack Fun Snacks
Depending on how many hours you are comfortable driving each day, you will grow hungry. It is time-consuming to stop multiple times just to grab a quick bite to eat. By packing snacks you will be able to go further without breaking. To help ward off the mundane, get crafty and put some extra special goodies in the cooler. Sure chips are easy, but it is also festive to munch on gourmet treats on occasion.
Build a Playlist
Streaming services are certainly convenient, but if you drive a couple of hours at one time, you will likely grow tired of hearing the same songs. Whether you are alone or with a friend or two download tunes that make you smile. This is a task you can spread out over a few days or weeks before you embark. The internet offers suggestions of songs in different genres and from individual decades. Take a stroll down memory lane while you relive the music of your youth.
Have a Flexible Agenda
After noting all of the must-see highlights, leave room for spontaneity. Though tourist traps are the butts of many jokes, sometimes you simply have to detour to learn if their allure is fact or fiction. No matter how confident you are in your arrangements and navigation, be sure to tuck an atlas or paper road map under the seat for the times when cell service is sketchy or if you are looking for a previously unheard-of attraction.
Include Emergency Supplies
Accidents do happen. Do not overlook the essential must-haves. Construct a bag or book crate with basic stocks such as water, flares, windshield fluid and some sort of cleaning supply or antiseptic for injuries. Again, your destination and outings will determine much of what you need.
Life is a highway and the more land you cover, the more you get to know. Prepare, pack and go.
