Road trips are often underestimated. Most people view flights and other kinds of ticketed travel as more complex and worthy of meticulous planning than road trips. However, that shouldn’t be the case! Everyone knows to fill up the gas tank and tell the GPS where to go, but here are several important things people usually forget to do before a road trip.
Clean and Service the Car
Start with your vehicle. Being in a cluttered, off-smelling car for hours on end will impact your trip more than you might think. Avoid unpleasantness by detailing your car at home before you hit the road. Clean out trash, organize your essential items, and vacuum the interior.
Also, schedule servicing at a mechanic before you set off. Check the oil levels, brakes, tires, and windshield wipers. Your vehicle should be road-ready in every way!
Download Audio Entertainment
If you want to plan an unforgettable road trip, long stretches of data-free silence shouldn’t be on the agenda. Even if you have unlimited data, you will probably drive through zones without service. Keep the fun times rolling by pre-downloading playlists, podcasts, and audiobooks.
Book Accommodations for Popular Stopping Points
Road trips thrive on spontaneity, but this doesn’t mean playing everything by ear is wise. Research popular stops along your route and book your accommodations ahead of time if you’re planning to stay the night there. Major attractions and national parks fill up fast, especially during peak travel seasons. Reserving rooms or campsites guarantees you’ll have a comfortable place to rest after a long day of driving.
Pack Healthy Snacks
You’ll get bored of gas station snacks pretty quickly, and you might not have the budget or time to eat out for every meal. Instead, bring a cooler or mini fridge and pack your own food. Here are some ideas:
- roasted, flavored nuts
- energy balls
- fresh fruit
- veggies and hummus
- PB&Js
- protein drinks
- string cheese
- hard-boiled eggs
Verify Insurance and Roadside Assistance Coverage
Before hitting the road, double-check your car insurance policy and roadside assistance plan. Confirm you have coverage for your planned route, especially if it involves crossing state or national borders. Make sure you know who and how to call for help in case of a breakdown or accident.
Most people forget to do these important things before a road trip, but you won’t! Remembering these details will probably save you from a few headaches and help you feel totally prepared for the open road.
