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There’s something truly liberating about a road trip. It’s a sense of freedom that’s particularly hard to find. You can stop whenever you feel, explore places you might otherwise pass or never feel obliged to go, and you can create something that truly suits your hobbies and interests.
Road trips can form in many shapes, from the sports fanatics who check out the match predictions for today, place their bets and buy their tickets to cheer their team on before moving on to the next town, to the foodies who want to check out the best cheap eats or Michelin starred restaurants.
It takes all sorts, but whether you are a sports betting lover who wants to travel the country watching matches, the foodie, or the culture vulture who wants to take in an entire nation’s sights, there is a lot to consider. Particularly if you are a beginner.
It takes all sorts, but whether you are a sports betting lover who wants to travel the country watching matches, the foodie, or the culture vulture who wants to take in an entire nation’s sights, there is a lot to consider. Particularly if you are a beginner.
For those planning their first ever road trip, it can be difficult to know what to expect and how to go about things, so here are seven tips to make it a trip to remember…
Plan your route – but don’t over-plan
Obviously, one of the first things you need to do is have a plan, but be careful, as you don’t want to be so rigid that you rule out spontaneity. Map out a general route and include the main destinations you want to see, as well as the main overnight stops.
That should include key roads to take, estimated driving times and your fuel stations too, particularly if you are travelling through remote areas. However, you also want to leave some room for detours, too. After all, discovering something unexpected is among the greatest memories of a road trip. Build in some time each day so that you don’t feel rushed and you can change plans as you go along.
Choose the right vehicle
The vehicle is so important on a road trip. It’s your best friend, but it could also be your worst enemy. Comfort and reliability are absolutely key. Simple as.
Before you set off, make sure your car is well serviced and roadworthy, while if you’re hiring, choose one that suits your needs. You’re likely going to want something spacious, efficient and has plenty of comfort within the seats.
Pack smart and keep essentials accessible
Just because you’ve got your car and can sling anything you want in the boot doesn’t mean you can be careless with the packing. Overpacking is a common mistake for beginner roadtrippers.
Aim to pack what you realistically need and make sure when it’s packed into the car, it’s organised so the most important things are easily accessed. Try to use soft bags rather than hard suitcases, as they’ll be easier to fit in the boot.
Importantly, keep a small bag within reach that contains essentials, such as water, snacks, chargers and torches, first aid kits etc., just in case of an emergency.
Uncover Britain highlights the importance of packing well: “Packing for a road trip isn’t about bringing more – it’s about bringing better. When you’re living out of a campervan or motorhome, the difference between a calm, enjoyable trip and a frustrating one often comes down to whether you can find what you need, when you need it, without unpacking half the van to do so.”
Prepare for navigation and connectivity issues
It’s very likely you’ve driven down country roads before, and the signal has cut out. So it’s bound to happen at some point on your trip. That means that you should have a backup. Get yourself an A to Z and ensure that you have an offline way to navigate.
What’s more, if you are going to rely on your phone heavily, make sure you have a car charger or power bank – running out of battery mid-journey will not be fun for you!
Take regular breaks
Driving for long periods can be tiring and dangerous, even if you do feel alert at the beginning. Plan in periods to take a break, perhaps every two hours to stretch your legs a bit, have some water, and to just refresh a little.
You can make it a pleasant stop off, whether it be finding a lay-by with a scenic view, or stopping at a local town and finding a nice cafe.
Be mindful of your budget
Road trips can be more affordable than other forms of travel, but the costs can add up if you aren’t careful. Set yourself a budget that is realistic and make sure you include the essentials like fuel, accommodation, food and attractions, as well as a contingency fund for anything unexpected.
Capture memories, but stay present
Finally, of course, you will want to capture memories and take photos, but try not to view the entire experience through a screen. Take time to enjoy the scenery and be in the moment. Have conversations with your travel companions and soak up the atmosphere.
A picture will last a lifetime, but so will a memor,y and we often forget that, pardon the pun.
Start planning your road trip
A road trip is a great way to experience a country or part of a country and do so at your own pace. By taking on board the tips above, you can ensure you’re well planned and have everything you need to not get caught out by the unexpected challenges, to embrace the unexpected and ensure that you make some great memories as a result.
So, what’re you waiting for? Take to life on the open road…
