The open road calls, and the excitement of hitting the highway is hard to beat. Whether you’re heading to a distant landmark or simply exploring new corners of the country, there’s something liberating about a road trip. But before you get too carried away with the thought of endless horizons, take a moment to make sure you’re properly prepared. A little effort up front can save you plenty of stress down the line.
Vehicle Readiness
Your car underpins the entire trip. Without it running smoothly, the whole journey risks turning into a hassle. Start by checking the essential fluids: engine oil, coolant and windshield washer fluid. These keep everything ticking along. The others, including power steering and brake fluid, should be fine if your car is serviced regulalry.
Don’t forget to check your tyres, too – look at the tread depth and adjust the pressure to match your car’s load. A fully packed vehicle needs a bit more air in its tyres. And be sure to have a spare tyre ready and accessible, just in case.
A dead battery can ruin any adventure, so look for corrosion on the terminals and make sure your lights are all functioning, from headlights to brake lights. Also, pack an emergency kit – things like jump cables, a torch and a basic tool kit can make all the difference if things go wrong.
Trip Planning and Budget
Spontaneity is great, but too much of it can turn your trip into a tiring marathon. A rough plan can help prevent burnout. When you’re looking at the route, add about 20% to the estimated time. Google Maps gives a good idea of how long things will take, but you’ll likely need to stop for petrol, snacks or a leg stretch, and the unexpected can always crop up.
Keep your driving days manageable. No more than six or seven hours a day is ideal, with breaks every two hours to stay alert. These little stops should keep you refreshed and help you avoid dangerous fatigue. Less time per day is better if you want to stop and see more on your way.
Along with fuel costs, be mindful of tolls and parking fees, and add a bit of a buffer for those unforeseen expenses. Road trips rarely go completely to plan, so make sure you’ve got the funds to cover surprises like car repairs or an emergency hotel stay.
Essential Documentation
Make sure you’ve got the right papers tucked away safely. In addition to your usual driver’s licence, carry a copy of your insurance policy and your breakdown cover policy number. If you’re crossing borders, an International Driving Permit (IDP) might be necessary, so check ahead of time.
It’s always a good idea to keep a spare key in a safe spot, too, ideally with a passenger or hidden somewhere outside the car. Being locked out of your vehicle is an easy way to add some extra stress to your adventure.
While you hope to avoid it, accidents can happen. In the unfortunate event of a road traffic accident, having your documentation and emergency contact details on hand can help you manage the situation more smoothly.
Comfort and Logistics
Long hours on the road can take their toll so that small comforts can make a big difference. Keep a bag with snacks, chargers, sunglasses and some hand sanitiser handy in the front of the car, so you’re not rummaging through the boot for something you need.
Pack a small first aid kit with painkillers, plasters and any necessary medications. You’ll also want a hygiene kit – wet wipes and tissues are useful for quick clean-ups, especially if you have kids. A few layers of clothing in the car can keep you comfortable no matter the weather.
A bit of planning before you set off can make the difference between a memorable adventure and a stressful ordeal. Keep these things in mind, and you’ll have the peace of mind to enjoy the open road fully.