8 Road Trip Mistakes You'll Want to Avoid

Life can be quite hectic, so it is vital to always take some time off to unwind. After all, stress is the number one killer resulting in heart attacks, cancer, diabetes, and other illnesses. To take the edge off of everyday living, going on a road trip is always a good idea. Here are eight road trip planning mistakes you'll want to avoid to ensure your drive goes smoothly.

1. Failing to Inspect the Vehicle

*Photo by Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington on Flickr

Getting the vehicle ready for the road is crucial because everything hinges on your car. When planning a road trip, right before embarking on your overland adventure, you should inspect your tyre tread, check your auto's fluids, and confirm all seatbelts are working properly. Failure to do so can cause extreme delays that cost time and money. 

Breaking down in the middle of nowhere with no help in sight is not a situation you want to find yourself in. With a pre-trip check-up and some inexpensive fixes, you will likely prevent expensive disasters.

2. Disregarding Auto Insurance

It's essential to make sure that you have good automobile insurance coverage. Since you're going to be traversing a lot of miles, it is best to be prepared for any accidents. Road collisions will give you a massive headache if you don't have insurance. Remember, you may be a good driver, but you have no control over other factors like the weather, road conditions, and the behaviour of other drivers.

3. Underestimating Road Conditions

*Photo by egorgrebnev on Flickr

Some routes and freeways are notorious for being plagued with traffic jams. These result in delays, wasting time, effort, patience, and money. Thus, it is vital to map out and double-check your chosen route for peak hours that have the most congestion. There are many apps out there that provide real-time traffic updates. On top of that, you should also check for roadwork and construction detours that could cause infuriating traffic bottlenecks.

Another important point to remember is budgeting your time so you are prepared for unexpected things. For instance, you may well know that a 300-kilometre distance is a 5-hour drive, but leave some wiggle room and consider it 6 hours long. You may need to stop for gas, food, and some short breaks. 

4. Overestimating Your Driving Skills

A vehicle is a machine that is controlled by a person. If the one sitting behind the wheel is not confident, it poses an immense problem because being alert on the road saves lives. On the other hand, overly confident people make many mistakes on the road. It is better for you to be a defensive driver who reacts to stimuli than an offensive driver who loses their temper on the road. Road rage and drama are averted when you keep your wits alert and rest when you feel tired.

5. Being Unprepared for Weather Conditions

*Photo by Chiara Coetzee on Flickr

Some people forget to check the weather conditions at their destination before packing. Where you are travelling might have a different climate, and you need to take the things necessary for it. But more importantly, you need to check weather forecasts and see what you can expect for the days you are staying. You might need to take an umbrella and some warm clothes.

Knowing the weather conditions on the road is also essential. If it is likely to rain or snow during the day you are driving, it is better to postpone your trip. If it is totally necessary, pick up everything your car may need. You may need to check your car for windshield wipers, air conditioning, brakes, and tyre chains. Driving in snow, for instance, is difficult, and you must take some careful measures.

6. Leaving the House Unprotected

Sometimes, you may focus too much on your car, road, and weather conditions that you forget about the house you’re leaving behind. Find out ways to take care of your home while away.

Have a trusted friend to check on your apartment, water the plants or mow your lawn. If you have a pet, consider a house sitter, or leave it with a friend or family. Inform the friendly neighbours that you are going to be away, so they may hold a lookout for possible intrusions or suspects.

Security of the house is even more important. Install an electric garage door for extra safety, and disconnect it before starting your trip. Setting automatic lights, video doorbells, and smart thermostats are some other tips you can consider for protection.

7. Not Being Ready for Emergencies

Apart from bad weather, storms, and road conditions, there are a host of other possible dangers you need to be mindful of while travelling. Natural disasters like earthquakes and landslides or technical issues are not so probable but are still possible. 

It is vital to have a first aid kit with you. Band-aids, lighters, spare batteries, and a sewing kit with needles could all help in a dire or scary situation. If you have a particular disease or there is a chance of a breakout in your destination, have your medicine ready. Regardless of your disease, have motion sickness medicine, allergy pills, and painkillers. 

Don’t forget to bring enough water, and be careful how you use it on the road. Water is the most precious item for both you and your car in cases of overheating.

8. Not Taking Short Breaks and Snacks

Setting some time aside for short breaks will ensure your own safety. Schedule your time so that you have some free time, especially during a long drive. If you are feeling tired or losing focus, stop off the road, take a quick nap or grab some snacks and after some minutes, drive on.

Although you can find some refreshments at a gas station or an off-road convenience store, it is better to get some before the start of your journey. The store or the gas station might be closed for the day or the hour you reach there, and you need to ensure your protein and sugar intake nevertheless. 

Refreshments become more important when you have kids with you. With snacks readily available, you don’t have to worry about their nagging and demands.

Going on a road trip is a fun and relaxing activity if you can plan for it ahead of time. Nothing beats bonding with your loved ones while exploring an exciting new place. Remember to do this right by noting these issues so you can always keep yourself safe on vacations.