Are you someone who gets nervous at the thought of even a small road trip? If so, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Many people get anxious when they have to drive for long periods of time, and that’s completely normal. But just because you feel nervous doesn’t mean you can’t plan a great road trip. In fact, with a little bit of preparation and planning, even the most anxious person can enjoy a fun and relaxing road trip. So if you’re ready to take the plunge, read on for some tips on how to plan your perfect road trip – no matter how scared you are!
Table of contents
Road Trip Checklist
Before you hit the road, be sure to check off everything on this road trip checklist!
- Vehicle: Before you set out on your journey, make sure your vehicle is in good working condition. Check the oil level and tire pressure, and fill up the gas tank.
- Map: It’s always a good idea to have a physical map of your route, just in case you lose cell service or GPS signal.
- Emergency kit: Pack a first-aid kit and an emergency roadside kit, including things like jumper cables, flares, and a spare tire.
- Food and drinks: Stock up on snacks and non-perishable food items, as well as plenty of water.
- Entertainment: Don’t forget to bring along some books, music, or movies to keep you entertained on the long drive.
- Clothes and essentials: Pack a few changes of clothes, toiletries, and any other essentials you might need.
With this road trip checklist in hand, you’ll be prepared for anything the open road throws your way!
Road Trip Cheat Sheet
Assuming you’re taking a road trip in the contiguous United States, here are some tips to help you plan and make the most of your trip.
1. Choose your destination(s) wisely: Not all destinations are created equal when it comes to road tripping. Some places are better suited for shorter trips while others lend themselves well to longer excursions. Consider things like the distance from your home, the time of year, weather conditions, and what there is to do at your destination (and along the way) before settling on a final destination.
2. Map out your route: Once you have a destination (or multiple destinations) in mind, it’s time to start mapping out your route. If you’re not familiar with the area, a quick Google search should give you a good idea of the most direct route. If you’re looking to take a more scenic route, there are plenty of resources (like this one) that can help you plan the perfect road trip.
3. Make sure your vehicle is up for the trip: Before embarking on a road trip, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is up for the journey. This means getting an oil change and tune-up, as well as checking things like the tires, brakes, and fluid levels. It’s also a good idea to have a spare tire (and the tools necessary to change it) in case of an emergency.
4. Pack smart: Once you have your route planned and your vehicle ready to go, it’s time to start packing. When it comes to road tripping, less is more. You’ll want to pack light so that you’re not weighed down and can easily make any necessary stops along the way. Be sure to pack essential items like snacks, drinks, a first-aid kit, and a map of the area.
5. Don’t forget to enjoy the journey: One of the best things about road tripping is that it allows you to slow down and enjoy the journey. So, don’t forget to take some time to enjoy the ride. Stop at roadside attractions, take plenty of photos, and make some great memories.
Tips to prepare for a road trip
1. Choose your vehicle wisely – Your car should be comfortable for long periods of sitting, have enough space to store your belongings, and be able to handle the type of terrain you’ll be driving on.
2. Plan your route – Map out your trip in advance so you know where you’re going and how long it will take to get there. Factor in rest stops, gas stations, and food options along the way.
3. Pack wisely – Bring along snacks and drinks for the drive, as well as any medications you may need. Make sure to pack a first-aid kit and a few blankets in case of emergencies.
4. Stay safe – Drive defensively and obey all traffic laws. Don’t drive if you’re tired or impaired in any way.
5. Enjoy the journey – Road trips can be a great way to see new places and bond with your travel companions. Slow down, take in the scenery, and make some memories!
How many hours should I drive a day on a road trip?
If you’re only driving for a day or two, then you can probably push yourself to drive for longer periods of time. However, if you’re driving for a week or more, then you’ll need to take more breaks and drive for shorter periods of time.
Generally speaking, it’s a good idea to take a break every couple of hours, even if you don’t feel like you need one. This will help you stay refreshed and alert while behind the wheel. And of course, always make sure to take breaks when you’re feeling tired. It’s not worth risking your safety (or the safety of others) by driving when you’re not at your best.
How do you plan a road trip for beginners?
The first step is to map out your route. You’ll need to decide how many miles you’re comfortable driving in a day and map out stops along the way. It’s also important to make sure you have your vehicle serviced and in good working order before you embark on your journey. You’ll want to pack snacks and drinks for the road, and plan for where you’ll stay each night. Finally, be sure to have a good sense of directions and a map in case you get lost along the way. With a little planning, a road trip can be a great way to see the country and create lasting memories.
How many days should I plan for a road trip?
As a general rule of thumb, it is always best to err on the side of caution and plan for more days than you think you will need, just in case you run into any unexpected delays or detours. That being said, if you are planning a road trip of moderate length (say, a few hundred miles or so), then a good rule of thumb is to plan for one day of travel for every 100 miles. So, if your road trip is 500 miles long, you should plan for at least five days of travel time. Of course, this is just a general guideline, and you may need more or less time depending on the specifics of your trip.
How often should you let your car rest on a road trip?
It is recommended that you take a break every two to three hours when driving on a long trip. This will help to avoid fatigue and keep you alert while behind the wheel. If you do start to feel tired, make sure to pull over and take a short nap before continuing your journey.
What should you not do on a road trip?
- Don’t drive for too long without taking breaks. Driving for long periods of time can be tiring and dangerous. Make sure to take breaks every few hours to stretch your legs and rest your eyes.
- Don’t forget to plan your route. Map out your route before you start driving so you know where you’re going and how long it will take to get there.
- Don’t speed. Speeding is not only dangerous, but it can also lead to getting pulled over and wasting time.
- Don’t forget to bring your essentials. Make sure you have your driver’s license, registration, insurance information, and a map of the area.
- Don’t ignore weather conditions. If it is raining or snowing, be extra careful on the roads and take your time driving.
How do I know if my car can handle a road trip?
The first is the condition of your car – if it’s been well-maintained and is in good working order, it’s more likely to be able to handle a long journey. You’ll also want to consider the route you’re taking and whether or not your car will be able to handle the terrain. If you’re planning on driving through mountain roads or off-road, for example, a SUV or truck might be a better option than a sedan. Finally, consider how many people and how much luggage you’ll be bringing with you – if you’re planning on packing the car to the brim, you might want to consider renting a larger vehicle. Ultimately, it’s important to use your best judgement when deciding if your car can handle a road trip. If you have any doubts, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and choose another mode of transportation.
What time should I leave for a road trip?
The best time to leave for a road trip depends on a number of factors, including the weather, traffic, and your personal preferences. If you’re flexible, the best time to hit the road is usually mid-morning on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Traffic is typically lighter during these times, and you’ll avoid the weekend rush. However, if you’re planning a trip during the summer, it’s best to avoid the heat and leave early in the morning or late at night. Check the weather forecast before you leave so you can plan accordingly. And finally, make sure you take plenty of breaks! Driving for long periods of time can be tiring, so it’s important to stay rested and alert.
What is the safest day of the week to drive?
Some people believe that the safest day of the week to drive is Monday, as there are typically fewer cars on the road and less traffic. Others believe that the safest day of the week to drive is Friday, as people are generally more relaxed and in a better mood on the weekends.
However, according to a study by the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, the safest day of the week to drive is Tuesday. The study analyzed data from nearly 6 million crashes that occurred between 2000 and 2005, and found that Tuesday had the lowest number of accidents. The study also found that Saturday had the highest number of accidents.
Is it better to drive at night or day?
It is generally considered safer to drive during the day than at night. A 2013 study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that 54% of traffic fatalities occurred between 6 p.m. and 5:59 a.m.1
There are several reasons for this increased risk at night. First, visibility is more limited, making it more difficult to see potential hazards on the road. Second, many drivers are tired after a long day, and their reaction times may be slower. Finally, there is an increased risk of drunk driving at night.
If you must drive at night, make sure to take extra precautions. Make sure your headlights and taillights are clean and in good working order. Slow down and allow yourself extra time to react to potential hazards. And be on the lookout for drunk drivers.
What is the best month to drive cross country?
The best month to drive cross country is September, according to a study by GasBuddy. The study found that prices for gas and lodging are typically lower in September than in other months, making it a cheaper time to travel. Additionally, the weather is usually milder in September than in other months, making it a more pleasant time to travel.
How do I prepare my car for a cross-country road trip?
First, you’ll want to get a thorough tune-up. This means making sure all your fluids are topped off and fresh, your brakes are in good condition, your tires are properly inflated and have good tread, and your engine is running smoothly.
Next, you’ll want to plan your route and make sure you have a good map (or GPS system) to help you navigate. Once you know where you’re going, you can make sure to hit all the necessary rest stops along the way and plan your gas stops accordingly.
Finally, pack your car carefully. You’ll want to bring along snacks and drinks for the drive, as well as any necessary medications, a first-aid kit, a few changes of clothes, and a blanket or two. And don’t forget your sunglasses and sunscreen!
What to know before driving across the country?
1. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition. This includes everything from the tires to the engine. If you’re not sure, get it checked by a professional before embarking on your journey.
2. Map out your route. Decide where you’re going to stay each night and make reservations ahead of time if possible. This will help you avoid getting stranded in the middle of nowhere.
3. Pack wisely. Bring along snacks and drinks, a first-aid kit, map, and anything else you might need. It’s always better to be prepared than to be caught off guard.
4. Drive safely. Take breaks often and don’t push yourself too hard. This is a long journey and you want to be able to enjoy it, not just get through it.
5. Have fun! This is an adventure, so make sure to enjoy the ride. Stop and see the sights, meet new people, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
How much would it cost to drive across the country?
It would cost approximately $2,500 to drive across the country. This estimate is based on the average price of gasoline, which is $2.50 per gallon, and the average car mileage, which is 25 miles per gallon. Therefore, it would take 100 gallons of gasoline to drive from coast to coast. Multiplying 100 gallons by $2.50 per gallon comes to a total cost of $250 for gasoline. In addition, there are other costs to consider such as food, lodging, and attractions. Based on a conservative estimate, these additional costs could add up to another $2,250, for a grand total of $4,750.
Of course, there are many variables that could affect the cost of a cross-country road trip. For example, if you drove an electric car with a much higher mileage, your cost for gasoline would be significantly less. Or, if you carpooled with friends and split the cost of gas, your total expense would be divided among the number of people in your group.
How long would it take to travel all 50 states?
Assuming you mean by car, it would take approximately 3 weeks to drive to every state in the contiguous United States. This is based on an average driving speed of 55 mph and does not account for rest stops, detours, or sightseeing. If you are interested in visiting Alaska or Hawaii, you would need to add another week or two to your trip.
Takeaway
If you’re feeling nervous about your upcoming road trip, take a deep breath and relax. With these tips, you can plan the perfect road trip – even if you’re a nervous wreck. We’ll help you map out your route, choose the right accommodations, and pack for every possible situation. So what are you waiting for? Get started planning your dream road trip today!