Roadtrips: some people love them, others loath them. But if the proper steps are taken into account before the tires hit the road, you might just be able to make it to your final destination without pulling out your hair—if you even have a destination in mind! Here are some ways that you can prepare for your next road trip.
Bring Entertainment
It’s going to be a long ride, so you had better bring some things to keep you and the crew entertained. For starters, a great playlist is nearly required. Make sure there are a variety of different artists and genres so that everyone can get a little taste of what they like, plus it can shake things up and prevent music fatigue. Other options include bringing along a good book you’ve been meaning to read—assuming you’ve switched off of driving with someone and are comfortably sitting shotgun—or an audiobook. Podcasts are another option when you start to get sick of music. You can even download some games on your phone, handheld console, or tablet and play with someone in the backseat for a few hours!
Check Your Ride
Your vehicle is your lifeline during a road trip. It’s your ship, and you don’t want it to sink halfway across the country. Before you actually hit the road, you might want to consider taking it by the mechanic to get all the bells and whistles checked out. This includes checking the tires, oil, engine, and just about everything else! Maybe you’ve even just had a classic Precision Car Restoration done and are taking it on its first new ride! Heck, you can take the mini-van if you want. The bottom line is you need to make sure whatever you’re driving can manage the trip and back.
Pack Some Snacks
What’s a road trip without a few snacks to munch on along the way? Be sure to pack plenty to keep you and the rest of your family or friends from getting hungry until you stop to eat. If you value the interior of your precious vehicle, you’d be wise not to allow anything that might drip or smear into the fabrics. You’ll also need some drinks, but be sure that your passengers pace themselves, lest they get stuck in the middle of nowhere with a full bladder.
Prepare for Pit-Stops
On a long road trip, it’s natural that you’re going to have to make a few stops along the way. For one, you’re going to need to make at least a couple of gas stops to refill the tank. Ideally, this is a good time to take a bathroom break too, otherwise, you’ll find yourself pulling onto off-ramps and the side of the road every hour. If you’ve got a couple of passengers with you, especially kids, make them use the restroom. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. Even if they don’t have to go, tell them to at least try. This will likely do little to actually help, because, as anyone with kids will know, they have trouble listening. If you can expect these inevitable stops, you’ll save yourself a lot of headaches in the long run.
Whether you have a destination in mind or are simply riding to ride and see the sights that come along with it, there’s something about a road trip that makes the journey special. Sure, it can be cramped, long, and loud being in a car for so long, but there’s a certain uniqueness about being trapped with those closest to you to bring you all together.
