Advice For Road Trippers by:Derek Lakes
No matter who you travel with on your road trip
, or if you're going it alone, making some plans beforehand will help you to have a safer an more enjoyable holiday. Especially if you're travelling to somewhere remote or unknown, then planning ahead is essential, just in case you get into any danger.The car's the star - Your relaxing road trip holiday can soon become a frustrating nightmare when you're left waiting by the side of the road for a recovery vehicle. Have your car thoroughly checked over before you leave just to make sure there aren't any problems lurking just around the corner. Your own vehicle might be a little questionable, or just not comfortable or roomy enough. In this case, you could rent something more suitable, or a friend may be willing to lend you theirs in return for a free holiday! Insuring your trip could be worthwhile, especially if it's a long haul road trip. Your car insurance should be updated, and you could also take out separate travel insurance as well. Learning some basic mechanics won't hurt, so you know how to fix minor repairs on the road.
Dress for the weather - You might not want to wear your best outfits on the road as they're going to get creased up in the car, and you may not be able to wash that often! You should dress for the weather, and if this means travelling through varying weather conditions then pack accordingly. If you're likely to experience hot and cold weather, or dry and wet, then this can be a little tough on car space. But you may well have clothes that can work double by being teamed with a jumper or jacket.
Pack a camera or camcorder - If you want to capture your trip on film or on digital, then don't forget the camera. While a lot of people just opt for their mobile phone camera these days, these will often struggle to capture some of the beautiful scenery you're bound to come across, so taking a proper camera might be better.
Take enough money for your trip - A debit card or credit card can fill a large part of this role, but some spending money is essential. Your car may break down, or you may need to buy some supplies from places that don't accept cards so keep some cash handy. If you don't have a credit or debit card, you could also consider travellers cheques if you're going to be taking a large sum on the road.
Pack some maps - A map is important, especially if you're going somewhere you've never been before. Taking a map will allow you to look at your journey before you go, marking on the map some places to stay along the way, or the nearest petrol stations in case you need to top up the tank.
Take some food and water - Even if you plan to eat at cafes and restaurants along the way, or stop off at motels or hotels, you should pack some food and water just in case you get stranded. You may not be planning to cook on the road, but a roadside cookout can be fun, so you may want to take a little disposable barbeque or cooking stove, as well as some pans, disposable plates and cutlery.
Pack some home comforts - If you're sitting in the car for long periods of time, or are planning to sleep in your vehicle, then you'll want to make it as comfy as possible. Pack a pillow or sleeping bag. Some books and magazines will help you pass the time, as well as travel games and some fun sports equipment like a football or Frisbee.
About the author
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