Spring Break is just around the corner, and a well-loved time for going on a road trip. If you’re looking to go on such a trip, this article offers five tips for planning a fun and memorable excursion.
1. Look Into Winter Conditions
Going on a spring break trip most likely means that some potential destinations may still be experiencing winter-y conditions. This is especially true if you’re traveling anywhere in the northern United States, where places such as Wyoming can still have snow in some areas through June. Because of this, you’ll want to make sure to take potential road conditions into account while planning. Look into whether or not the areas you’re traveling through are likely to experience any adverse condition. If they are, planning out how this is likely to affect your trip and having a backup plan or two in mind will guarantee your trip can continue with minimal disruption.
2. Check Updated COVID-19 Restrictions
Many places have recently loosened their Covid-19 restrictions, but what exact restrictions remain in effect continues to vary immensely from place to place. Some cities have been functioning with very few restrictions even from private businesses, while other cities such as Seattle are just now lifting mask mandates. Additionally, restrictions can be opposed by several levels of authorities, ranging from country-wide mandates to decisions from private businesses. Because of this, spending some time looking into what guidelines or requirements are currently in place for anywhere you’re traveling through, staying, or exploring is a good way to make sure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.
3. Save Time For Unexpected Fun
For many, the allure of the destination is often the focus of their travels. If you’re road tripping, though, some of the most memorable times might actually happen on the journey there. While it is definitely rewarding to get to your destination as soon as possible, it can also lead to missing out on a lot of potentially amazing experiences. Try to save some room in your schedule for unexpected fun – spend a few hours exploring local shops in a small town, or add a nature walk into a driving break.
4. Pack An Emergency Kit
This is one that goes for a trip of any kind, though it can be easy to overlook in the excitement of heading out on the open road. Bringing some emergency supplies with you is a great way to assure you’ll be as safe and prepared as possible. What exactly you want to bring somewhat depends on the details of your trip, but in general items, such first-aid kits and bandages are great to have around regardless of the length and destination of your trip. If your route does feature somewhere prone to cold weather, consider bringing an emergency thermal blanket with you as well – they’re available cheaply online and at several major stores, and are a great way to keep warm if you do experience any car trouble.
5. Don’t Push Yourself Driving
It can be tempting to fit as much driving as you can into your road trip, especially if you’re excited to get to a destination or have to be home at a certain time. However, having to drive long distances can not only be dangerously tiring but also stressful. Instead, consider adding extra time and stops into your schedule. Whether this is some more breaks to stretch your leg or a weekend back at home before you have to go to work, doing so will allow you some extra peace of mind while traveling and will take the pressure off your drive.
