Seven Tips for Road Trips

You have finally decided to take that road trip you have been putting off for a variety of reasons. How do you make this journey as enjoyable as possible? Here are seven tips that will make the experience fun and stress-free!

1. Take a road atlas. Yes, I know, you have a cell phone that can help you with directions. But what do you do when you are in an area with no cell phone reception, or your phone suddenly bites the dust? A road atlas can help you navigate in those situations. You can also obtain the old-fashioned fold-up maps at welcome centers along interstate highways and at service plazas on toll roads. These are free!

2. Remember your cell phone charger. We depend so much on our cell phones these days. One thing that will definitely ruin your road trip is forgetting your cell phone charger. Not only do these phones enable us to stay connected to family and friends, they are invaluable in the event of a vehicle break down. Cell phones can also help your passengers pass the time by playing games or reading.

3. Make sure you have your mechanic check your vehicle over. This is especially important for those longer trips. Nothing ruins a trip quite like a vehicle breakdown, so have your mechanic, check the belts, hoses, tires, brakes, battery, and anti-freeze/coolant. Your mechanic can also spot something that could potentially break and needs to be replaced.

4. Take drinks and snacks. Depending on the length of the trip, you may need to stop for meals along the way. Taking some drinks and snacks along will make the longer trips more enjoyable. If you want to do something fun, pack a picnic lunch and find a rest stop or park to take a break. My parents did this and it made the long trips less monotonous.

5. Stop and Take Breaks. Driving can wear on you, even if the scenery is spectacular. Intentionally stop and stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and have a cup of coffee or a bottle of water. If you are traveling through a scenic area, it also gives you a reason to pause and get some pictures. Of course, take breaks to grab a meal, fill the gas tank, or have that picnic lunch!

6. For Long Trips, Reserve Hotels Ahead of Time. I recommend planning the length of time you plan on driving each day and reserve hotels ahead of time. It is never a good idea to drive for eight hours or more and then count on finding a vacancy in hotels that you encounter. You don’t need that kind of stress! Another advantage to booking those hotels ahead of time is that you can find the kind of hotel that has amenities you use, such a workout rooms, swimming pools, and included breakfasts.

7. Have Your Favorite Music with You. Any trip is more pleasant when you have your preferred music with you. With satellite radio availability, it is easy to find channels that you particularly enjoy. Some vehicles have CD players, and many now have the option of playing music from a USB flash drive, where you can store the contents of many CDs. Many people also like to listen to books on tape.

These tips won’t guarantee glitch-free road trip, but they will help make the experience more stress-free!