Road trips are an essential activity for every automotive lover. It’s a way for you to test the limits of your vehicle and enjoy the open road. For the experienced road tripper, preparing for one is second nature. But for amateur road trippers, it can be an extreme challenge.
Ever since quarantine restrictions have eased in the US, a rising number of Americans are planning to go on a road trip to clear off cabin fever. However, many road trippers know that their trip is determined by what you’ve prepared. If you prepared poorly, then you’re going to have a bad time. This is why it’s crucial to have as much information as possible during your preparation.
One of the first things we should discuss is your mode of travel, specifically your vehicle.
Designed for Road Trips
Sure, you can make a cross-country trip with a Sedan or an SUV. However, if you’re looking for the best experience on the road, nothing comes close to a pick-up truck with a good truck hitch installed. You can technically carry anything, such as a small cabin on that hitch.
Some of the best pick-up trucks on the market are the Toyota Tundra, GMC Canyon, and Chevrolet Colorado. However, the GMC Canyon comes on top when it comes to price. We all know the quality of General Motors and their vehicles, and this truck is one of the best out there. But if you have some money to spend, then the Toyota Tundra is the best choice for you. Its utilities are worth the price.
Don’t worry if you have any of these vehicles or a hitch. You can still make your road trip possible. But if you have the money for it, it’s one of the best investments you’ll make.
Safety Preparations
Before you go anywhere, you must prepare yourself and your vehicle for the trip. First, ensure to bring your vehicle to the local auto machine shop to check it. Millions of cars break down in the middle of the road, most of them during their road trips, and you certainly don’t want to be one of these people.
Moreover, you should also take a trip to the pharmacy and get yourself a first-aid kit. Make sure to have at least one for every two to three persons on your trip.
Bring these vehicle tools as well, just in case:
- Hydraulic Jack
- Wrench
- Lifehammer
- Duct tape
- Air filters
- Any headlight restoration kit
- Jumper cables
This will ensure that you can handle any problems that might happen while you’re on the road.
Plot Your Route
Before starting your road trip, you must plot your route beforehand. Don’t leave it to the GPS, either. You don’t want to take a backroad somewhere and get yourself stuck on a ditch, waiting for rescue to arrive the next day. Your route will determine your overall road trip experience, so make sure to do it right.
Some apps can help you do this. Google Maps is one such app that you should try plotting road trips. Roadtrippers is also a dedicated app for this purpose. First, try plotting a route from your home to your workplace or a local park to get used to it. Once you do, you’re ready to plot your road trip route.
Remember to always stick to highways and designated roads, and if it’s your first time, don’t ever deviate from your route, ever.
Drive Safely, and Don’t Rush
Once you’re on the road, always choose to drive safely. Remember that your destination isn’t going anywhere. If you’re experiencing some delays because you’re following the designated speed limit for each road, that’s fine! However, don’t rush it, especially if you’re driving on roads you’re not familiar with. You don’t want to get into an accident while on your first road trip.
Keep Hydrated
Lastly, don’t forget to hydrate. Always have water right next to you while you’re out on the road. Being dehydrated is the last thing you’d want. Additionally, if you’re someone who needs medication daily or if you’re prone to allergies or asthma, make sure to have your medications accessible to you as well.
Don’t ever pack these things inside your suitcase. You don’t want to waste your time scrounging your suitcases for these medications or for water. These are essential needs that you want to have by your side.
Your first road trip will determine your perceptions of this All-American activity. If you prepare poorly, you’ll have a bad experience with it and choose to never do it again. However, if you do your preparations well, you’re going to enjoy road trips for years to come.
