If you’re after a successful and stress-free road trip, you’ll need to put in a little planning. Follow our guide from prep to packing so that you can enjoy your holiday on the open road.
Pick a route
Road trips aren’t only about the destination, they’re also about the journey. So why take the road frequently travelled when you can find a ‘yellow brick road’ of adventure? You’re sure to discover quaint towns with rich history or untouched landscapes with vibrant scenery for the perfect ‘Insta pic’. It’s all out there and waiting for you.
Get the family involved from the start. Ask everyone if there’s something they’d like to experience along the way. For the kids, it may be a visit to a water park, while you might consider visiting a museum or a foodie hot spot.
Draw up an itinerary
Even a chilled road trip needs a watertight plan. That involves checking for roadworks so you can plan for any delays. Scouting and booking accommodation might be key too if you’re planning a cross-country trip. If you think you might arrive after dark, ask if someone will be available for a late check-in and if the restaurant will still be open. There’s nothing worse than a ‘hangry’ family after a long day on the road.
Make meals part of the fun
Grabbing a meal at a petrol station is fine for a treat. However, it will delay your trip, can become expensive and certainly isn’t the healthiest option. A cooler box filled with healthy snacks, sandwiches and fresh juices will keep the mood and energy levels up. Instead of eating on the go, plan stops along the way where you can eat your meals, stretch your legs and take in the local views.
Rest-stop planning
Stopping on the side of the road to relieve yourself isn’t safe or comfortable. Before you leave home, identify pit stops along the way where everyone can refresh themselves. This can be a challenge if you’re travelling with toddlers or babies, so you may need to map out more options along your route.
Plan for emergencies
Nothing spoils a trip like getting a tyre puncture on the road. Air conditioners can blow. Cars can overheat. So ensuring your vehicle is serviced regularly will reduce the risk of holiday car drama, but it’s not fail-safe. Roadside assistance is the safety net you need if you’re planning a road trip. Save the numbers you need to call and any relevant membership details in your phone before heading off – and in case of a battery fail, have them written down somewhere.
A roadworthiness check a few weeks before your trip and knowing that your car is in working order will give you peace of mind. Priorities are the steering, brakes, clutch and drive belts. Check for signs of leaks underneath your car and get this seen to before you travel if there are any red flags. Even if your vehicle received the green light in the months before a trip, you need to do the following yourself:
Let the games begin
Travelling with kids can be a challenge. Relying on smartphones, tablets or gaming devices to keep them entertained isn’t the only answer. They will run low on battery life a few hours into your trip. You can also:
The information contained in this article is for information purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.
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