7 Tips for Road Trips in the States (#4 is important!)

By Warren Kuhn

Road tripping in the US has its pros and cons. The distances are so long that it can get quite discouraging and demoralizing. But many destinations have sights to see that will make it all so worth it in so many levels!

You can go from the deep valleys and giant sequoias in Yosemite, to the majestic Grand Canyon in Arizona. You’re sure to see some of the most beautiful things on this planet. From one road tripper to another, and whether you are traveling in your car or an RV, here are some tips to make your travels more worthwhile:

#1 Plan your trip well

No, you don’t have to get into every little detail like your timing your toilet stops and stuff. But planning well can get you a long way. Take a map, familiarize yourself with the legends and the route you’re going to take.

• Planning your travels ahead, especially if it’s a road trip, can help you avoid stressful situations. You could lose your way, run out of gas, miss beautiful spots or find no accommodation. Those are just some examples of possible circumstances.
• If you’re traveling on an RV, then you’re lucky. But even then, you have to check parks that can accommodate it.
• Planning ahead can also help you save up more. For instance, if you’re planning to go to many national parks, then you might as well get a year-round pass. It will fall cheaper than paying a fee each time you enter.
• You should also study the place so you can schedule your stops at a gas station, grocery store, etc.

#2 Check your vehicle

You can do it yourself, or you can go to an auto maintenance place, but the goal is to check everything for a smooth ride. Check the engine, fluid levels, tire pressure, lights and signals, wipers, etc. You should even check your spare items to make sure they are in working order.

In your car, make sure you have a tool kit in case of an emergency. A few other things you might want to have are hose connections, reflectors or flares, and even a fire extinguisher.

#3 Pack wisely

Aside from your clothing, you’re going to want to have items that will make the ride more comfortable. Even more so  when someone else is driving. For me, a neck pillow is a lifesaver on road trips! You should also bring things to keep you warm during cold nights (e.g. a thermos for your coffee, etc.).

• When traveling around America, one of the best things to do is to go camping. Rather than book a hotel, you can bring your camping gear and camp out instead.
• Consider bringing a small and portable white gas camping grill, an icebox, and a foldable chair. It makes the outdoor meal experience easier.
• Bring headlamps or any light source.
• Play cards and other games are fun to have during road trips with friends or family and even during camping.
• A first aid kit is a must as well as any personal medication. If you are taking maintenance or prescription drugs, make sure you have a copy of your prescription.
• Finally, consider having a car charger and a solar charger for your gadgets.

#4 Have a personal water bottle and drink often.

Getting sick during a trip is probably one of the worst things ever. To prevent that from happening, you should hydrate often. Invest in a durable water bottle so you’ll also be helping the environment.

As my friend would say, always bring your “Wat-bot!” Most places will have potable water so you can refill often. However, you should still bring a water filter or purification tablets especially if you’re traveling to very remote areas.

#5 Bring classic road trip snacks

Some trips require a long time on the road, and you are going to get hungry at some point. A sandwich, trail mix, hard-boiled eggs, crackers, and granola are just some examples of food you can bring. They’re easy to prepare and easy to eat while you’re in motion, even if you’re driving.

#6 Have a playlist ready

Road trips are so much better with music playing. Make a playlist to energize you as you drive, to motivate you when you hike or take a walk, or even if you’re just chilling. Music can set your mood in the right place.

I always travel with a pair of earphones. Portable speakers also come in handy especially for groups or families, but you won’t need one if you’re traveling alone.

#7 Don’t drive while sleepy

Driving while feeling sleepy and falling asleep while driving are two of the main causes of vehicular accidents in America. Long drives from state to state can get pretty tiring so don’t risk your life by driving without a rest. If you need to, pull over or drive to somewhere where you can check in for the night.

Final Thoughts

With forty-eight states connected and over three million square miles, the US is a great

place to go for road trips. Americans and visitors alike can enjoy what the vast land has to offer. To make the most of your road trips, you need to plan ahead and carry out the necessary arrangements and preparations.

What do you think about these tips? If you have questions or if you’d like to share some tips from your own experience, we’d like to hear from you. Feel free to use the comment section below.

Image Credit: ShutterStock.com

Author Bio: Warren Kuhn is an outdoor and camping enthusiast, always out to seek for the thrill and adrenaline that only nature gives. He even took up survival training to prepare him for the worst-case scenarios while outdoors.

With his background, you can learn a lot from him so you can get the most out of your camping trip at TheCampingTrips.

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