Road trips are a great way to break the monotony of everyday life. Get out of the city, see new sights, experience different cultures, and take in some fresh air. The best part is that it doesn’t have to take weeks or cost thousands of dollars.
Before embarking on your next road trip, keep these tips in mind:
1. Prepare for the Trip
Make a list of places you want to visit and research their attractions, directions, and hours of operation. It can also be helpful to look into discount activities and local events that might be happening during your trip. The more information you have gathered ahead of time, the less likely you are to forget something important.
2. Check the Weather
Be sure to check the weather forecast for your destination and plan accordingly. You don’t want to pack a swimsuit if you’re visiting somewhere cold or bring a heavy jacket if it’s going to be hot and humid. Starting planning ahead of time can help you avoid unpacking and repacking your bags. Also, be aware of local events that might cause your travel plans to change. A hurricane warning can stop a beach getaway before it starts or close attractions you had planned to visit during your stay.
3. Pack Light
Lighten your load by packing only what you need and checking the available space in your vehicle before adding anything else. For example, if you’re traveling by car, check the trunk or backseat for additional storage space. You can also pack a small bag and leave it in your vehicle so that you have an extra place to put things you pick up along the way.
4. Emergency Kit
You never know what disaster might befall you while on the road, so have an emergency kit packed and ready to go at all times. This should include:
- Contact details for car accident attorneys
- Maps of all nearby destinations
- First aid kit with essential items like bandages, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, etc.
- Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
- Waterproof matches or a lighter so you can build a fire if needed
- Non Perishable snacks like beef jerky, trail mix, crackers, etc.
- Water in bottles (don’t forget to recycle them when you’re done!)
- Cell phone charger * Plug into your car’s 12V socket for unlimited power!
5. Accommodation
Once you’ve picked out your destination, figure out where you’re going to stay.
Camping – With a tent and some supplies from the local outdoors store, you can make yourself at home in the great outdoors. (Be sure to camp safely and legally!)
Hotel/Motel – If you need a more comfortable night’s rest, hotels and motels are plentiful in most areas.
Airbnb – Rent someone’s house or apartment for a truly unique experience. (If you’re new to Airbnb, you can save up to $40 on your first stay!)
Vacation rental – If you want someplace nicer than camping but still don’t want to pay the hefty price tag of a hotel, vacation rentals are a great option. These can be found in most areas and offer better amenities than camping or an Airbnb at a cost that’s similar to a hotel.
Have Fun!
No matter the length of your trip, the final thing to remember is to have fun! The journey you take can be just as important as the destination, so enjoy yourself and everything that comes with it. Be sure to check out places off the beaten path, too, since they’re often where some of the unique experiences are found!
Mia Guerra
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