Approximately 71% of Americans and 81% of Europeans have said they planned to take a domestic road trip by 2021, according to a survey by Generali Global Assistance. While the pandemic has cut down on air travel, determined vacationers are embracing the open roads and taking interest in the sights seen during extensive drives. So, if you’ve never planned a dream road trip yourself, here are some tips to set you on the right path.
Pick Out The Itinerary Of Your Dreams
Think about what everybody coming along has always wanted to see. You’d want to pick out places that would have a profound impact on everyone taking the trip. Interview everyone to make a wish list of places to go to. Then, see how feasible it is to incorporate that into the itinerary. If you need more ideas, keep an eye out for paths and places that are less traveled.
Account For Everything On Your Budget
While road trips are one of the most economical ways to take a vacation, it still entails quite a bit of expense. You should account for anything and everything you might find yourself spending on, and a little extra besides that. Expenses include everything from snacks to repairs for your vehicle. If you’re planning on taking a trip with a large group, consider an SUV if you don’t have one already. Check for features like fuel economy and cargo capacity on a reliable car review site to guide you on which model fits your itinerary best. Aside from topping up the fuel tank, this includes factors such as tire pressure, fluid levels, and even air filter quality to help you prep your vehicle for the long journey.
Map Out and Schedule Your Stops
Once you’ve decided on the locations you’ll visit, it’s time to connect them with a structured route. Make sure to mark side roads and alternate routes. This will provide you with plenty of backup paths when part of the road ahead becomes unexpectedly clogged with traffic. It can also help you find a more scenic route to your destination.
In addition to your vehicle’s average speed, traffic and ongoing events are going to be the main factors when making the schedule. Make sure to allow extra time for detours and impromptu stopovers. The flexibility of a travel schedule comes from allowances made for little hangups and distractions. Just remember these three tips if you ever feel lost in the process.
