Whether you are planning a trip with family or friends, there are a few important basics when it comes to planning an epic road trip. To ensure you get off to a good start, here are 4 top tips.
Pick your route
Make sure you have worked out your basic route with your A and B, but not every single mile is set in stone. Adapt the route so you can see where you are going and how long it will take to get there, so you can see if you are only a few hours shy of something that you have not thought of but that you would like to visit.
There are hundreds of pre-planned scenic routes and thousands of recommended stops when designing your trip.
Plan
Once you know your route, planning for all scenarios is key to a successful roadtrip.
This means you can plan your road trip complete with rest stops, attractions, refreshment stops, great small town jewels, and picture-book locations. If you are taking children or pets along with you, it is important to check all amenities cater for them as well as any extra requirements you may have (e.g. dietary).
It is also important to ensure you have everything covered, by telling a trusted friend where you are going, including a paper map incase of any technical issues, write emergency contacts, insurance cover and any other contacts you may need, for example, car accident lawyers to cover all bases.
Budget
Budgeting goes hand in hand with planning and is an important part of every trip. You should know your costs when renting a car or booking your accommodation in advance. But you also need to makena note of the cost of fuel, eating out, and budgeting for any extra items you may need to purchase. You don’t want to be caught out and have to come home early! Make sure your budget extends the entire trip as well as a safety net.
Be flexible
The best thing about a long drive is that you can see not only the final destination but also many of the places you encounter along the way. That’s why it is great to be flexible with your dates and timings. The wonder of road transport conveys so much knowledge about the world and its beautiful places, and there are some things you miss when traveling by plane or train. To guarantee a lifetime of memories, choose as many interesting streets as possible and skip the large conurbations teeming with chain restaurants, cookie-cutter hotels, and crowded highways.
Keep the passengers happy
Whether you are going on a road trip with friends or family, it is important to bring your own stash of activities for when the drive gets quiet. Pack your favorite games and books, and help children prepare for their trip by selecting workbooks, games, and painting utensils that they can include in their own family road trip activity bag.
Going on a road trip can be so much fun, as long as you have the basics covered. Remember to be open to exploring new places, embrace the journey and enjoy the views.