How to Plan the Best Summer Road Trip for Your Family
Summer is the perfect time for a road trip. The weather is warm, the kids are out of school, and there’s no shortage of fun things to do. But planning a successful road trip takes more than just throwing some clothes in a bag and hitting the open road. To ensure your trip is enjoyable for everyone, it’s important to plan ahead of time. Here are a few tips to help you plan the best summer road trip for your family.
1. Begin Preparations Early
Did you know that, according to G2, 48% of event planners start planning for their event 6-12 months ahead of time? The same logic applies to planning a road trip. The sooner you start making preparations, the better. This will give you more time to research destinations, make reservations, and plan activities. It will also help you avoid last-minute stress when everything needs to be done at once.
Start by making a list of potential destinations. Once you’ve narrowed your options, research each destination to find out what attractions they offer. If you’re parenting, look for family-friendly activities that everyone will enjoy. Once you’ve decided on a destination, begin making reservations for hotels, campgrounds, or rental properties. If you’re planning to visit multiple destinations, make sure to map out your route and plan for rest stops along the way.
2. Take Your Car for a Tune-Up
Before you hit the road, it’s important to ensure your car is in good working condition. Schedule a tune-up with your mechanic and have them check things like your oil level, tire pressure, and brakes. Getting your car washed and detailed before you go is also a good idea. This will help you avoid dealing with a messy car during your trip.
If you’re planning to drive a lot, it’s also important to ensure you have adequate insurance coverage. Review your policy to make sure you’re properly covered in the event of an accident or breakdown. You may also want to consider purchasing roadside assistance in case you run into any problems while on the road.
3. Prepare an Emergency Kit and Check Your Spare Tire
According to the National Asphalt Pavement Association, more than 94% of America’s paved roads are asphalt. That means there’s a good chance you’ll run into some bumps and potholes during your trip. So, before you head out on your road trip, put together an emergency kit and keep it in your car. This should include things like a first-aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight, and extra batteries
In addition to an emergency kit, it’s also a good idea to check your spare tire and ensure it’s properly inflated. You should also have a jack and a lug wrench in your car so that you can change a flat tire if necessary.
4. Understand the Road Safety Laws in Each State
Depending on the route you take, you may end up driving through multiple states. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the road safety laws in each state before you go. This will help you avoid getting pulled over and potentially getting a ticket. Remember to also obey the speed limit and refrain from texting while driving. Safety should always be your top priority when you’re on the road.
5. Have Room for Some Adventure
According to SharkSider, shark tourism generates around $314 million per year. You probably have never considered going on a shark tour, but that’s the beauty of road trips – they offer the perfect opportunity to try new things. When you’re planning your trip, build in some time for activities that are outside your comfort zone. This will help you create lasting memories and have some stories to share when you return home.
By following these tips, you can plan the perfect summer road trip for your family. Just remember to start planning early, take your car for a tune-up, and be prepared for anything. If you do all of this, you’re sure to have a great time on your trip.