If you’re planning a trek across the states, no matter how far, it’s vital that you do some pre-trip planning to make the trip as fun and easy as possible. Here are a few ideas to help you properly prepare for your next cross-country road trip:
Pack Comfort Essentials
One of the main things you need to ensure a good trip are those home comforts which help you stay relaxed whilst covering vast stretches of road. Start with sunglasses, which will not only help with comfort, but will also make things much safer for driving around in the bright sunshine and even along those dusty roads – you can find lots of different eyewear options and high quality sunglasses on this website.
Next, ensure you can get much needed rest whilst you’re playing passenger – travel pillows will help you get any much needed sleep, whilst travel mugs and refillable water bottles will help to keep you and the driver refreshed at all time. A blanket is also a great addition, as this doubles up as picnic blanket when you aren’t using it for warmth.
Keep Yourself Entertained
When driving for hours on end, it can be annoying having to change the radio station regularly. Before you go, ensure that you have a good adapter to allow you to play your phone’s music via the radio, as well as investing in an in-car charger to ensure that you never run out of juice.
It is also great fun to create your ultimate road trip playlist before you set off, picking out some of your favorite hits to sing along to on the journey.
Books can also be a good way to pass the time in the passenger seat, however not the best option if you suffer from motion sickness!
Make Sure Your Car is Stocked with Emergency Supplies
It isn’t just you that is enduring the long ride, your car feels the strain too! Start with an emergency roadside kit, with high visibility jackets to keep you safe by the roadside as well as jumper cables.
Check your spare tire before you leave to ensure that it is readily available should you get a puncture; however you may also want to take a tire weld kit too. Make sure that you also pack a torch, because if you do break down, it isn’t guaranteed to be during the day. Jumper cables are also a must.
It is also wise to make sure your car’s manual is handy and if not, download one just in case you can’t get reception when broken down. It’s also crucial you have jumper cables with you.
Download Maps and Pack a Few Extras
On the topic of cell reception, make sure you download the maps you need before you set off, as you can’t guarantee that you will have the signal you need for the full duration of your road trip. Alternatively, keep a paper map on hand to cover you in any emergencies.
It is also good to keep a certain amount of cash on hand, as not everywhere on your travels may accept credit cards – especially tolls, parking meters and the like.
Finally, you should also make sure you pack a first aid kit, just in case it is needed as well as some non-perishable snacks just in case someone gets hungry and there are no restaurants or rest stops in sight.
Have you ever gone on a long road trip? Let us know in the comments below!
