Essentials of a Road Trip

Road trip can be done for various reasons with different group. Be it, family, friends or partners. It could be for a reason of a romantic drive to the landscapes of New Zealand, reaching a holiday spot with family to Vancouver, drive with friends to Vegas.

What’s more exciting than piling into the car with best friends or family and tearing off toward the horizon in search of fun and adventure? An impromptu road trip doesn’t need to be and, ideally, shouldn’t be an unplanned one.

There are certain Do's & Dont's which are necessary before, while & after a long drive. Planning a road trip is not a very difficult task. Essentials would vary with the journey, place, car, roads, people and most importantly the purpose.

Preparation for the Journey -

1. Vehicle Checkup: Since it’s a long drive its important to ensure the condition of the vehicle is apt for the journey. We need to check all the details which would not be a hindrance in the long drive. Tyre pressure, fuel tank, auto insurance, documents of the car, driving license and additional tyre tube along with the jack should be checked.

2. Get a Good Map: There are various maps & map books available, which would give a quick reference & almost accurate distances between various destinations. If possible mark the journey with a marker that would give easy access while driving and avoid any confusion. Maps also have location of fuel pumps & eat out places (state tourism restaurants). This data should be marked for quick availability.

3. Schedule your Journey: It may not seem very spur-of-the-moment, but all journeys need a destination. Schedule a road journey in such a manner that u travel in day and reach a hotel or a lodge well before mid-night. It’s always preferable to be located somewhere close to a town or a city in the night. Meals should be scheduled at the right time.

4. Decide who’s Driving: If the journey is too long and there are more than one driver in the car its always advisable to keep a rotation schedule This will keep everyone fresh and alert and ensure that no one gets stuck behind the wheel for too long.

5. Take proper Halts: It’s necessary to give both the vehicle & your self regular break; you’re not on a racing circuit so enjoy the scenery on the way & make your trip more memorable

6. Driving in the Night: Try driving at night only on the roads known (where you have been before). Ensure right signals are followed especially at diversions. Headlights should be turned on.

7. Essentials to Carry: Emergencies can arrive any time. We should have traveling things readily available.

  • Additional tool kit
  • Duplicate keys
  • Can of water, engine oil and coolant
  • Music cds and cassettes

8. Road Manners: Do not honk unnecessarily, do not change tracks, do not overtake from left. These are basics which one should follow. While driving one should ensure that they don’t create nuisance on the road and maintain some discipline on the road along with maintaining the speed and following signals.

9. Child Care: Having children in the car, especially for long journey one must ensure all the safety measures. Seat belts should be fastened and child lock should be utilized. Children should be kept entertained in the car, so carry their fun games.

A road trip gives you the freedom to be your own travel agent, bond with family or friends, travel on a budget and take a holiday at your own convenience.

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