Escaping the monotonous routine of life by visiting an exotic and refreshing place and spending some time alone or with family or friends is known as rejuvenation and regeneration. While there can be many ways how you choose to visit a particular place, one of the most enjoyable methods is going by road, commonly known as the road trip.
If you love to travel by road, embarking on a road trip can be very exciting. Traveling is a passion for many people who prefer road trips over other means, such as by air or by train. When you choose to go traveling by road, you get to explore different areas, meet new people and visit many places on the way to your destination. Firstly, you should plan and finalize your destination keeping in view all the pros and cons. To do so properly, you can get details from the internet or any travel magazines. You may also check the conditions of the roads that lead to your destination.
In order to ensure a flawless trip, it is imperative to ensure that you are equipped with certain things. Let’s have an in-depth look at the road trip checklist.
Table of Contents
CAR CHECK
Before you head to your destination, you should ensure that your car is in order. A good approach is to get an appointment with your mechanic and get a detailed checkup of your vehicle. On the day of the departure, recheck all vital areas, such as engine oil and transmission oil, water levels and tire pressure.
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DOCUMENTS
Before leaving for your destination, make sure that you are carrying all documents of the car, such as a registration book and driver’s license. Going for a long trip without carrying the necessary documents is never a good idea as you may have to go past several security checkpoints. If your trip is going to take you far or outside of the country, then you should also carry your passport as a precautionary measure.
2. EMERGENCY KITS
Always ensure before leaving that you are carrying your car’s emergency kit. It is also a good idea to learn about basic repair and ways to overcome car trouble. This can come in really handy if you are going to travel to a remote area. It may include jumper cables, reflectors, different tools (pliers, screwdrivers, wrenches), flash lite, coolant, motor oil, snow chain, steel wire, and other useful tools.
3. GPS DEVICE AND MAPS
Nowadays, road trips have increased the importance of GPS and maps significantly. Therefore, you should have a good GPS device in your car in order to identify different roads and highways and avoid getting lost. The device is also helpful in the sense that it lets you know the conditions of the road, traffic situation and the time left to reach your destination. Along with the device, you should have a paper road map of the area that you are going to visit. Sometimes, when you lose GPS signals, these paper maps are your only hope in finding your way out.
4. FIRST AID BOX
A good first aid box is necessary to carry when traveling by road. You are essentially unable to find any medical assistance in remote areas, and so even a small wound could result in a huge problem. The box must include important items, such as adhesive band, safety pins, ointment, cotton gauze, vaseline, thermometer, wipes, small scissor, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and hand sanitizers. It is also highly advisable to carry life-saving medicines and those that are anti-allergy and pain.
5. HANDBAG:
Carrying a small handbag with small addons can also come in really handy. It may contain items, such as a hairbrush, lip balm, tissue roll, body wipes, and other similar stuff. Don’t forget to also have an umbrella and basic mobile accessories in this bag.
6. CLOTHS
Before departing, you should check the weather at the destination you are going to visit. In addition to the basic clothing, remember to carry one upper because it will allow you to scale the hills without having to worry about the cold or warm atmosphere.
7. FOOD
Don’t forget to take an adequate amount of food or snacks with you to prepare for an emergency situation. Sometimes, when you are going to the top of a mountain, then you may face unexpected circumstances, such as a landslide that could clog the road. You can also take some uncooked raw food items with you and enjoy cooking at your favorite destination.
8. ADEQUATE MONEY
Don’t forget to carry enough money with you to make the most of your trip. This way, you would be able to ensure that you bear your expenses. Fuel, for instance, can be a huge issue sometimes, with your car requiring multiple refills. Also, don’t forget to carry some cash as it will be helpful in places where credit cards are not acceptable.
9. CAMERA
Never miss your camera at home otherwise you will not be able to capture the memorable moments during your trip. Moreover, make sure that the batteries of your camera are fully charged.
10. GARBAGE BAGS
Always make sure to carry a garbage bag with you as you might need them frequently. It is always a bad idea litter on the road on the way to your destination. But also don’t forget to discard them whenever you find a suitable place to do so.
CONCLUSION
Road trips are one of the most exciting things to happen, and it takes a lot of planning and preparation to make the most of it. It is always helpful to make a final check on all the items before you finally depart for your destination. Even when you think you are fully prepared, don’t forget to make a comprehensive check on the key items, such as life-saving medicines, umbrella and vital tools for the car. Also, always carry extra gallons of fuel so you are not stranded anywhere on the way.