Road trips are classic summer vacations, and for a good reason. They’re a great way to see different parts of the country or even different parts of your own state. They’re also a great opportunity to bond with your family. Spending hours in the car together lets you catch up on each other’s lives. That’s why this activity is one the most enjoyed by families.
But the enjoyment may be cut short if you’re not properly prepared for the trip. You may become stressed out and crabby, away from the quality time spent with your loved ones. You don’t want to meet your destination only to find that you’re all exhausted from the journey just because you failed to plan the whole trip carefully.
Whether you’re going on the best US road trips or would drive across the county, here are a few tips on how to best prepare for your family road trip:
1. Choose the right vehicle
The first step in preparing for a road trip is to choose the right vehicle. You need to consider the size of your family and the amount of luggage you will bring. You’ll need a bigger car or SUV if you have a large family. A smaller car will suffice if you only travel with a few people.
Before going on a trip, you also want to ensure that your vehicle is in tip-top shape. For instance, you opted to use your Subaru SUV because it’s comfortable and has a good reputation for reliability. But if your vehicle isn’t serviced regularly, it may not be as reliable as you need it to be on a long road trip. Be sure to bring your Subaru to scheduled routine maintenance before your journey so that the staff can check that everything is in working order.
2. Plan your route
The second step in preparing for a road trip is to plan your route. You need to map out where you’re going and ensure there are no dead ends. You also want to consider the different attractions you’ll be passing by. This way, you can ensure that everyone in the car can see and do what they want.
Many websites and apps can help you plan your route if you’re unsure where to start. AllTrails is a great option that lets you find different trails near your location. Once you find a trail you want to explore, the app will give you all the information you need, such as the length of the trail, the difficulty level, and even reviews from other hikers.
Also, consider the different stops you’ll need to make, like rest stops, gas stations, and restaurants. This way, you can plan your stops ahead of time and avoid making any detours.
3. Pack smart
Packing is arguably one of the most important steps in preparing for a road trip. You must bring all the essentials, such as clothes, toiletries, and first-aid supplies. But you also don’t want to over pack and end up with a car that’s crammed full of stuff.
A good rule of thumb is to bring what you need and pack light. This way, you’ll have more space in the car for other things, such as your luggage or souvenirs from your trip. You should also consider packing versatile items that you can use for different purposes.
4. Keep everyone entertained
Long travels are fun, but sometimes, they can get boring, especially for kids. To prevent this, bring activities to keep everyone in the car entertained. One way to do this is by preparing a travel music playlist or starting a group session where each family member can queue their favorite songs to listen to.
If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll need to keep them entertained throughout the journey. There are many ways to do this, such as packing their favorite toys or bringing a portable DVD player. You can also use this time to bond with your family and play road trip games. These can be fun and educational at the same time.
If you all want to stand and stretch your feet, there are plenty of rest areas and gas stations with facilities for travelers. You can stop by these places to take a break and rest before continuing your journey.
5. Be safe on the road
The most important thing to remember when preparing for a road trip is to stay safe on the road. This means following the speed limit, driving defensively, and taking breaks when needed. It’s also a good idea to have an emergency kit in the car in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Your designated driver should also get enough rest before driving. This way, they can stay alert and focused on the road. If you’re taking turns driving, switch drivers every few hours so each can take a nap while another person drives.
No matter where you’re going or how you plan to be on the road, these tips will help ensure your family road trip is a success. By following these tips, you can ensure that your next road trip is a fun and memorable experience for everyone involved. With some preparation, you can make memories that will last a lifetime.