Make Your Next Road Trip More
As amazing as road trips can be, those hours on the road can be a bit of a slog if you’re not prepared. So, before you hit the open road, why not make your journey a bit more efficient (and a lot more enjoyable)? Here’s how to get the most out of your road trip without losing your marbles or your patience.
1. Accessorise
When you are on the road, your car is your most valuable asset and the thing that will make or break your travels, so it is important that you have the right car accessories to make your journey even better, right? From phone mounts that keep your GPS in line (no more fumbling around for directions) to seat organisers that ensure you’re not wading through a sea of snack wrappers and travel-size lotions, these little gadgets can make a huge difference to how efficient your trip is, but also to how enjoyable your journey is too.
2. Plan Your Pit Stops
You’re not on a speed challenge; you’re on a road trip, which means there’s no shame in planning your stops so that you can make the most of the route you are travelling and really see all there is to see. Research and map out interesting places to visit along the way. Whether it’s a quirky roadside diner or a scenic overlook that’s begging for an Instagram post, having a few planned pit stops will break up the drive and make the journey more enjoyable.
Bonus tip: Use a road trip app to find fuel, food, and rest areas so you can avoid those panic-inducing “we’re running on fumes” moments.
3. Pack Smart, Pack Light
The more you haul with you, the less fuel-efficient your car will be, and the more stops you will need to take as a result of that. Not only that, but the more stuff you bring along the less room you will have for your passengers to get comfy as they sing along to “Radar Love,” right? So, stick to the essentials and use a car organiser to keep your stuff neatly stowed away. A clutter-free car makes for a less stressful trip and fewer moments spent hunting for that elusive travel pillow.
And here’s a pro tip: pack a bag of essentials (snacks, water, medication, and a spare pair of socks because, you know, life happens) within easy reach. This way, you won’t have to root through the entire boot just to find that one thing you need.
4. Fuel Up with Fun
Okay, so it won’t actually make your trip more efficient, but if you have a great playlist packed with all of your favourite tracks, it will certainly seem like those miles are flying by, and the same goes for games if you have kids along for the ride. No more, tantrums and annoying questions!
5. Prepare for the Unexpected
When it comes to road trip travels, it is always better to be prepared for things going wrong, so that if and when they do, you are ready for them and it won’t take you so long to recover from those little hiccups. Keep a basic emergency kit in your car with items like a first-aid kit, jumper cables, and a flashlight. And, if you’re travelling during the colder months, pack a blanket or two and some warm clothes. Nothing says “I’m ready for anything” like being prepared for all weather conditions.
Here’s to your most efficient road trip yet!