When it comes to traveling, nothing compares to a road trip. It’s among the best ways to see the country, putting you in touch with all sorts of people and the unusual sights that fill the interstates and local roads of the nation. But even the most anticipated trips can turn into nightmares if you commit one of the deadly sins of road trips. So we’re here to help as we explore what you need to know when planning a road trip – and the vital things to avoid. Let’s hop on the road!
Your first decision should be an obvious one – where are you going to go? You could start with a destination in mind or work backward based on how much time you want to dedicate to the journey. Of course, remember that you’ll need to get back home, so build in time for this too.
Preparing for a road trip can range from tossing a few snacks and an overnight bag in the car to an extensive process with hotel reservations, planned tours or excursions, and more. For road trips of any significant length, it may be a good idea to have your vehicle checked out in advance, if possible.
1. Not Taking Regular Breaks Few people truly enjoy the part of the road trip where they’re cooped up in the car, at least for long periods. However, it’s worth taking the extra time for some stops to stretch your legs, relax, grab a bite to eat, and explore.