Uncover the top road trip tips to enhance your driving adventure

No American travel tradition compares to the classic road trip. Whether you’re planning a cross-country journey, a week-long exploration of a specific area, or an international road trip, here are some essential tips to ensure a successful journey.

Create a practical itinerary

The most common error when planning a road trip is being overly ambitious with your itinerary. While mapping out your route and estimating travel times, consider all the possible delays you might face: bathroom breaks, meals, photo opportunities, unexpected roadside attractions that you simply must see, traffic, and inclement weather. The estimated drive time from Google Maps can easily double, so it’s crucial to include plenty of buffer time in your plans.

Additionally, if you're the sole driver on your road trip, you must ensure you don’t overexert yourself. Not everyone is accustomed to long hours behind the wheel, and fatigue can set in, posing dangers while driving.

If you’re embarking on a family road trip, be aware that getting on the road in the morning might take a bit longer. Kids can be quite unpredictable!

Ensure your vehicle is in excellent condition before you set out on your journey

If you're using your own vehicle for the road trip, ensure it undergoes a thorough inspection well in advance of your departure. Check the battery, engine, and tires, replacing any components as needed.

If you're renting a car for your trip, a complete inspection might not be feasible. In such cases, consider investing in additional rental car insurance or roadside assistance options, just in case any issues arise while traveling.

In line with this, think about renting a larger vehicle for your journey, depending on your destination and the trip duration. For example, if you plan to navigate dirt roads, choose an SUV rather than a sedan.

Pack smartly

Since cars have limited storage capacity, it's important not to overpack for your road trip. Consider your vehicle's size as you organize your luggage.

However, there are certain items that are essential to keep in your car during your travels. Here's a quick list of must-haves.

• First aid kit
• Duct tape
• Tire pressure gauge
• Air pump
• Jumper cables
• Blanket
• Flashlight
• Ice scraper (if traveling in winter)
• Portable phone charger
• Paper towels or toilet paper
• Bottled water
• Snacks

Identify gas stations along your route beforehand, and always fill up whenever possible.

As you plan your journey, be sure to note the locations of gas stations (or charging stations). You can make a list using Google Maps and other mapping applications ahead of time, which will save you time while traveling. This preparation will also help you avoid areas with limited fuel availability along your route.

It's advisable to refuel before each segment of your journey, even if your tank isn't nearly empty. A good rule of thumb is to never let your gas tank dip below ¾ full.

Plan for food needs

Your car isn’t the only thing that requires fuel during your road trip; you'll get hungry and thirsty too! Check out restaurants and grocery stores along your route before you set off, and mark your favorite choices on your map app. Keep an eye on their opening and closing hours, as they can vary. Always have road trip snacks and water handy in case food options are scarce.

Be ready for potential car damage

Accidents can occur, which is why having car insurance is crucial. Remember, accidents aren't limited to just collisions. A flying rock could shatter your windshield, a tire might go flat, or your car battery could fail without warning. If you're driving in the U.S., ensure you have AAA for roadside assistance.

Keeping everyone entertained during the journey

Some drivers and passengers may enjoy the drive's scenery in quiet, while others may prefer to listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks. If you're traveling with kids, consider bringing a tablet to keep them entertained. Whatever your entertainment choice, make sure to download it before leaving in case you lose cell service.

Did you forget to download your entertainment ahead of time? Try some classic road trip games to keep everyone engaged.

Prioritize the driver’s quality of sleep

Drowsy driving poses significant risks. It's crucial for road trip drivers to get sufficient rest, which might mean opting for a hotel stay over a hostel or car camping to ensure a good night's sleep.

If you start feeling drowsy while driving, make sure to pull over at a rest area and take a short nap. Your safety and the safety of others is paramount!

Take your time!

A road trip is not a race; it's more like a marathon. There's no rush to check everything off your list. In fact, some of the best memories from road trips come from the surprises along the journey. So allow yourself extra time to explore scenic routes, and don't hesitate to stop multiple times along the way.

Tips for managing your budget on the road

Road trips can be a cost-effective way to travel. Here’s how to plan an economical journey

• Opt for camping instead of hotels (but remember, the driver still needs quality rest)
• Prepare picnic lunches rather than eating out every day.
• Seek out free attractions along your route. If you’re traveling in the U.S., think about getting a national park annual pass to reduce entrance fees.

Driving advice (including tips for driving on the left)

Safety is paramount! Here are some useful suggestions

• Always familiarize yourself with local traffic regulations before driving in a new area.
• If you’re driving on the opposite side of the road (the left), stay close to the center line. When making turns, remember to execute wide rights and tight lefts.

Commonly asked questions

Summary

Road trips offer a wonderful (and often budget-friendly) way to explore the world. They do necessitate careful planning and preparation, from mapping out your route to ensuring your vehicle is in good condition. However, always leave space in your schedule for unexpected discoveries! Prioritize safety by making sure the driver is well-rested for the journey ahead.

What informs Dinogo's content for this guide?

As a seasoned road-tripper, my husband and I thrive on exploring new destinations by car. We've traveled across the globe, from the picturesque Loire Valley in France to the stunning landscapes of New Zealand's South Island. Our most ambitious journey to date was a five-month road trip spanning from New York to Los Angeles, during which we even brought our cat along for the adventure on the way back!