How To Travel Safely and Comfortably By Car
A long road trip can be loads of fun, enabling you to see the country side and explore at your leisure. Traveling by car is one way to make sure your vacation isn’t just about the destination, but about the journey, as well. Here are some tips for making sure your next trip by car is safe and comfortable.
Before you leave home take care of any basic maintenance that your car requires. Get an oil change, check all fluids, make sure your tires are in good shape, the spare is full of air, the wipers are in good working order and anything else that comes to mind. Stock your trunk with jumper cables, a gallon of water and 2 quarts of oil for emergencies. These few items can mean the difference between waiting on a tow truck and being able to drive into the nearest town for repairs. This is common knowledge but be sure that you do not skip this step or you may end up spending your vacation in a garage somewhere along the roadside. To save money on gas, keep an eye on the gas prices while traveling as they can vary greatly from region to region. Fill up when you see a good price.
There are several things you can do ahead of time that can help you enjoy your road trip. First, buy a road map of the area you are visiting. Print the approximate route you want to take from your favorite online source but be careful not to rely on these as they are notoriously inaccurate. Also, when calculating how much time the journey to your destination should be, factor in an extra couple of hours each day for unexpected side trips or stops. You never know when you will find an interesting diversion along the way. Being flexible is half the fun of traveling by car!
Bring along some creature comforts to make the driving time more enjoyable. Some pillows, blankets, water and snacks will come in handy. Also, wet wipes and paper towels will be useful for quick cleanups. Sunscreen and sunglasses should be worn to protect against the sun damage that can occur during extended periods of driving. A few garbage bags will help you keep the car tidy. Bathing suits and towels are bound to be needed so bring those for all members of your party.
While you travel be on the lookout for local restaurants and interesting places to explore. Ask locals about what there is to do in the area. You will find that most people are more than happy to share information about their “neck of the woods.” Inexpensive places to stretch your legs include flea markets, parks and historical sites or museums. For a healthy snack, pick up some locally grown produce at fruit stands along your route. All of which will give you a glimpse of the local culture while keeping your costs down.
So, there you have some great tips to make your next road trip a memorable one. Car travel can be a fun and safe way to vacation. For maximum enjoyment, don’t be in a hurry, be flexible and keep your eyes open for new things to see along your journey.
