GETTING STARTED
Mapping your route: After deciding on your destination, it's time to choose the route you will take to get there, keeping in mind: time changes, weather conditions and road construction. An Atlas is always a good idea to have with you, but there are many websites such as Mapquest that provide you the shortest distance possible. Make sure you print out these directions and keep them in your vehicle. Log onto Weather.com or your local new station to get the most up-to-date information about how your trip will be affected by the weather. Also, local Department of Transportation websites will have the latest in construction and road closures. If you are planning on making stops, then you may want to make hotel reservations from home a few days or weeks in advance. Depending on if you're just staying to get a good nights sleep, or staying to enjoy your time, you should also research local restaurants and activities.
Make a list & check it twice: Being organized is the key to a successful road trip and making a list of what has to be packed and taken along is essential. Aside from what you need for your vacation, you should also have a bag that stays with you in the car. This should contain items you will constantly need such as, music, books, games, and snacks. Once everything is packed and all set (even if you're not), load up the vehicle with as much as is ready, so when it's time to leave you can just get in the car and go. This will alleviate a lot of stress and help the trip start on a positive note. In addition to what you need for your trip, keep in mind what needs to be taken care of at home while you're gone. Is a family member or close friend going to take care of your animals, plants, mail, newspaper, or trash while you're gone? Put your mind at ease and have this arranged days before you leave. Depending on the time of year, you should also consider turning your thermostat up or down, to conserve energy while your home is not occupied.
Make a list & check it twice: Being organized is the key to a successful road trip and making a list of what has to be packed and taken along is essential. Aside from what you need for your vacation, you should also have a bag that stays with you in the car. This should contain items you will constantly need such as, music, books, games, and snacks. Once everything is packed and all set (even if you're not), load up the vehicle with as much as is ready, so when it's time to leave you can just get in the car and go. This will alleviate a lot of stress and help the trip start on a positive note. In addition to what you need for your trip, keep in mind what needs to be taken care of at home while you're gone. Is a family member or close friend going to take care of your animals, plants, mail, newspaper, or trash while you're gone? Put your mind at ease and have this arranged days before you leave. Depending on the time of year, you should also consider turning your thermostat up or down, to conserve energy while your home is not occupied.
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
The most important part: Your vehicle is going to get you from Point A to Point B, so make sure it's working at its' peak performance. Most companies offer inexpensive packages to ensure your vehicle is in good road trip condition. Preventative services worth getting checked out, include checking your tires (including inflation, balance and rotate), topping off fluids, and checking the battery. An easy do-it-yourself project is replacing any dull or broken headlights, tail lights and turn signals. If you're driving at night, functioning bright headlights are a clear advantage. A clean car is something often overlooked, but considering you will be in the confines of a small space for a long period of time, it's a good idea to start clean and maintain during stops. It's also a good idea to wash your car before you leave and after you arrive, so the bugs and the elements don't stick and make a tough mess to clean up after your trips.
SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Be prepared: Better safe than sorry, means having to pack some extra items in case the unexpected happens. A flashlight for night driving, jumper cables, and a small set of tools (to change a flat tire) are good precautionary items to have on hand. A First Aid Kit with the all the basics is a must, especially if you have kids. If you do get stranded, it's a good idea to have snacks and at least a gallon of water, to drink or use if the car overheats. Although cell phone coverage isn't always a guarantee, make sure you have emergency contact information saved in your phone so you can make the calls when and if necessary. Phone numbers that might be useful: AAA, the hotel where you're staying, insurance company, and check your local Department of Transportation website for "*" numbers that give current road conditions. Other communication devices, such as SPOT Messenger or OnStar are a good back up when you're traveling through desolate areas with no cell phone coverage. For winter weather: extra blankets, warm clothes, something bright or reflective and snow chains or cables.
ON THE ROAD
Here we go: The best part of a road trip are the memories you make while you're in the car, so get creative and have fun! The confines of a vehicle give you plenty of time to talk, but when you need something different, being prepared will save the day. Having music, books on tape, comedians, or DVDs are all a distraction from time and a life saver when you're driving through land with minimal or no radio stations to choose from. Car games are also an entertaining way to help pass time and add a fun, imaginative element to your trip. 20 Questions, Slug Bug, and Name that Tune are a few of the many games you can play while on the road. While you're traveling around this beautiful country, don't forget to take pictures of the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you. And what a great way to catalog your journey!
