As the clock struck midnight on the 31st of December 2019, we were all excited about the many plans that were to come for the great year of 2020. There were so many life and travel plans in motion, some trips booked, and the new year bringing with it great promises…Until March when Covid19 put a stop to everything we had in sight. With travel being a highlight of many families’ years, it has been disappointing to so many people not being able to go out and travel the world. (Also to travel bloggers like me!) Yet just because we can’t always hop on a plane for a long weekend, it doesn’t mean that we still can’t experience all the benefits of travel – we just need to reign it in a bit closer to home.
If you are still looking to travel with your family but in a safer way, why not head on a road trip? This way you get to see a bunch of new places and destinations, without having to go on public transport such as planes, trains, and buses and don’t have to worry about if a sudden lockdown happens. Here are some top tips for a road trip….
- Map out your route ahead of time
One of the best things about a road trip is that you get the chance to see a multitude of different places. It is a good idea to map your route out ahead of time so that you don’t miss anything. There might be certain places you want to drive past, sights you want to stop off at, or specific places you want to stay. It is also important that map out where the rest stops are in case you need the bathroom or to grab something to eat on your journey. Work out where the gas stations are too, as you don’t want to find yourself running low with no idea of where you can get more!
- Bring plenty of entertainment for the kids (and the adults too!)
On a road trip, you can find yourself in the car for long periods of time without stopping, and it is important you bring enough things to keep the family entertained. For the kids, a tablet or iPad is a good idea where they can watch movies and play games. Coloring books, stories for them to read, and portable board games can also a lifesaver to keep them occupied in the back. For parents, be sure to download a good playlist of music before you go, and don’t forget to pack plenty of snacks!
- Ensure your car is in top shape
When heading out on a road trip, your car will potentially go through the wringer, driving further and more often than you probably do usually. Because of this, it is so important that you check it is in top shape before you head off. Check your tire pressure and that you have enough gas, washer fluid, and oil in the engine. It is also important that you have emergency numbers for family or friends stores, as well as for your break down for your car and travel insurance should you need it. If anything is to happen on your trip and it isn’t your fault, make sure you get in touch with a personal injury law firm dedicated to helping others.
- Book your accommodations before you go
While some want spontaneity on a road trip, it is important to book your hotels before you go, or at least have an idea of where to stay with back-up options. There is nothing worse than showing up somewhere late in the day, and they don’t have any rooms left, or the ones they do have are ridiculously expensive (yes this has happened to me!) Be sure to do your research and look for any deals in the days leading up to your trip. You are more likely to find a good deal and can find the hotels with the best ratings.
These are just a few top tips for heading out on a road trip. Traveling closer to home can be a great fun and enlightening experience where you will make memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget to bring plenty of drinks and snacks for the journey; portable chargers in case you need your phone, and a good camera to take photos and document your journey. With so many amazing destinations to choose from, you may find you choose to take another road trip next year too! Which is your favorite of my top tips? Let me know!
