No fixed departure times or strict luggage allowance, no crowded carriages or expensive tickets; just you and the open road…
Road trips are great for all sorts of reasons, and aside from being extremely budget-friendly, they well and truly put the spontaneity back into travel. When it comes to going away, we often get so fixated on reaching our destination that the journey itself becomes somewhat stressful. Travelling by car, on the other hand, gives you the ultimate freedom to take your time and really soak up your surroundings. Whether you’re travelling with kids, with friends or enjoying some alone time with your partner, a road trip is the ideal way to get a change of scenery without leaving the country. Here are some essential tips for getting the most out of your car journey.
Take the scenic route
Taking a road trip is as much about the journey as it is about the destination, and presents a rare opportunity to really enjoy the view. It is therefore crucial to plan a route that maximises this. No matter where you’re headed, taking the most interesting course possible is an absolute must. Be it rolling countryside, quaint villages or well-known landmarks, having plenty to look at will make the difference between a dull drive and a bona fide road trip. What’s more, unlike flying or going by train, you are free to get out whenever you like, so keep the trip interesting with lots of noteworthy stop-off points. Roadtrippers is a useful app that can help you plan a route, so be sure to visit their homepage.
Don’t get lost
Going by car is one of the most flexible ways to travel without being tied to a schedule, allowing for impromptu stop-offs and last-minute detours. However, even if you have no real time constraints, getting lost – especially as night falls – can quickly turn a pleasant drive into a bit of a headache, so have an atlas and a satnav handy just in case.
Prepare the car
The only thing worse than getting lost is breaking down, so an essential part of your road trip preparation is thorough vehicle maintenance. In the weeks leading up to your adventure, start making sure your car is in tip-top condition; check all the essentials such as tyres, engine temperature, headlamps and break lights. Carrying out checks in advance gives you plenty of time to get hold of any necessary replacement parts, which can be found via online retailers like Mister Auto. If you need wheel bearings, for example, entering your registration number here will instantly bring up those that fit your vehicle. Additionally, be sure to pack a spare tyre so you can be on your way as quickly as possible should you get a flat.
Pack the fun
What other mode of transport allows you to play your music at full blast and have a good old singalong? Keep spirits high with your very own road trip soundtrack, and be sure to bring a wide variety of CDs (or playlists) so it doesn’t get repetitive. Podcasts also make for great in-car entertainment when you need a break from singing. Try and cater to everyone’s tastes, and if you’re travelling with kids, pack plenty of books, games, pens and paper to keep them occupied.
Especially when taking the more scenic routes, it might not always be easy to locate an eatery when hunger strikes. Pack a cool box with plenty of snacks that are easily edible along the way, as well as a picnic blanket should you wish to stop off and dine outside. The key to a happy road trip is enjoying the journey, and keeping everyone well-fed and refreshed will ensure the mood stays positive.