Road trips can be a dream or a nightmare, depending on who you go with, and how well-prepared you are! The car you’re driving will also affect how much you enjoy your long drive, you can upgrade your car affordably with a new lease. Visit Lease Loco and explore some car lease deals on the market before you hit the road.
If you have all the right pieces, the journey can be just as beautiful as the destination.
We have a few great hacks to help your road trip go smoothly from start to finish!
Plan Ahead
Planning ahead will ensure that you feel comfortable with the drive beforehand. Familiarise yourself with the route you’re going to take. You don’t have to memorise anything but have a look at the map and take note of major roads and motorways.
While you’re looking at your route, take time to schedule pitstops. Find places you can refuel and take breaks if necessary. Give yourself plenty of time to get where you need to be and make allowances for traffic.
Get the Car Ready
Make sure that your car is ready for a long journey. Consider taking it in for a service, if it hasn’t been serviced for a while. If you can’t afford a service or don’t have the time, that’s okay. Just make sure you check the following things:
- Check your fluid levels and top up where necessary. This includes your brake fluid, coolant etc.
- Check your tyre pressure and make sure they’re adequately filled. Also, check your tyre tread depth and make sure it’s within the legal minimum.
- Ensure that your windscreen wipers are in good condition. Replace them if they aren’t.
- Ensure that all your lights are working.
- Fill up your tank before you set off.
Pack your driving documents and make sure you have them on hand. This includes your driving license, your car insurance, vehicle registration and roadside assistance information.
Prepare for Emergencies
You need to prepare for the worst and make sure you’re prepared for the worst-case scenario. Put together an emergency kit and keep it in the car. Here are a few suggestions of what to include in your emergency kit:
- A first aid kit.
- A roadside safety kit i.e. a reflective triangle, jump leads, a foil blanket and tow rope.
- A spare tyre and other tools to change a tyre. Also, make sure that you know how to change a tyre!
- A jerry can.
- A Flashlight
Have Entertainment
Long drives can be really boring if you don’t come prepared. This is very important if you have children in the car with you. The drive will feel even longer if you can’t keep them happy and occupied!
Make sure all the portable devices like iPads, tablets and laptops are charged so that they can watch a movie or two in the back. The same goes for all phones and gaming devices. Brush up on car games like “I Spy” and make sure you have a fun, family-friendly playlist ready. You might even be able to get an audiobook of a classic.
If it’s an adults-only drive, you might still want to brush up on car games! Make sure you have a few different playlists ready to go and try to cater to everyone’s tastes. This is a great way to discover new music and spark interesting conversations.
You could also consider a podcast or audiobook, even a TedTalk. Make sure that everything is already downloaded and ready to go. Invest in power banks if there aren’t USB ports in the car.
Eat Up
Make sure you fuel your body up and make healthy decisions. Fast food is tempting and delicious but it can make you feel heavy and fatigued. You’ll be uncomfortable and not at your best behind the wheel.
Choose healthy snacks and meals to keep you energized and aware. You’ll be able to resist temptation if you pack your own lunches and snacks beforehand. This way, you can avoid stopping and seeing foods you shouldn’t have. Also, make sure that you stay well hydrated.
Take Regular Breaks
Make sure you take regular breaks and actually get out of the car. Take in the fresh air and stretch your legs. Switch drivers, if possible, and make sure all drivers are insured! Taller drivers may find a thigh extender helpful so they can drive for long periods without taking unnecessary breaks.
Final Thoughts
The long drive before you get to your vacation spot can be fun and stress-free if you prepare beforehand. Come up with a game plan and stick to it for the best results.
