5 Mistakes to Avoid When Planning a Road Trip

July 2019

There’s no better feeling than setting out on a road trip with your friends or family. You’ve picked your destination and are ready for some fun along the way. The last thing you’ll want to happen are bumps in the road that will put a damper on your journey. Therefore, it pays to be prepared when planning a road trip. It is a list of common travel oversights that can cost you time and money while on the road.

1. NOT BRINGING SNACKS AND CAR-FRIENDLY FOODS.

Maximize travel time and avoid frequent stops by stocking up on snacks before you hit the road. Save money by purchasing in bulk and preparing quick bites like sandwiches before you hit the road. A cooler is an excellent investment for longer trips to keep drinks and perishables cold. If you are going to stop, consider a picnic for the family.

2. NOT MAKING SURE YOUR VEHICLE IS UP TO SNUFF.

An essential component of a stress-free road trip has a vehicle that can go the distance. Taking the time to ensure your car is running smoothly before departure will help prevent costly and time-consuming delays. Plan a few weeks in advance and take care of a few small tasks before they become a bigger problem. Check coolant, oil, tires and spare wheel for peace of mind.

3. NOT TAKING ADVANTAGE OF HANDY TECHNOLOGY.

A road trip doesn’t have to be dull or stuck in the past! There are dozens of travel apps to help navigate, entertain, educate, and more. Check out the Google store for Travel Apps for Your Next Road Trip. Remember: it’s important to drive safely. So put your trusty co-pilot in charge of using a cell phone or tablet and pull over when you need to take a closer look.

4. NOT BEING PREPARED TO TRAVEL WITH CHILDREN AND TEENS.

Keep the dreaded “Are we there yet?” at bay with games and activities to keep younger passengers occupied. Games and activities like listening to audiobooks are great ways to keep kids from losing patience on long drives. Keeping teens entertained and engaged can be a challenge too. It’s essential to offer teens a mix of inclusion and independence while on the road.

5. NOT PACKING MONEY-SAVING ESSENTIALS.

You’re already saving by choosing to drive to your destination, but there are plenty of other ways to travel on a budget, for example, Reusable water bottles, Snacks & meals, Cooler with ice and Car phone chargers, to name a few.

Have a safe trip and enjoy the drive.