The Ultimate Checklist For Nailing Your Summer Road Trip

Summer is the perfect time for an unforgettable road trip with your friends or family.

With rising living costs all around, Millennials and Gen Z are roadtripping more.

As you gear up for your epic adventure on the open road, it’s essential to ensure you have everything you need to make the journey smooth and enjoyable.

To help you avoid any hiccups along the way, here’s a handy checklist of things you shouldn’t forget before embarking on your summer road trip:

1. Determine your total budget and stick to it

Road-tripping is an eminently affordable way to experience the world, but it is still not without cost.

You’ll need to factor in the cost of petrol, food, accommodation, entertainment, and other things you want to see and do on the way.

You can divide your total budget by days, and stick to your daily allowance.

2. Plan the route loosely

While planning some sort of route crucial, be open to spontaneous detours, scenic viewpoints, or unexpected attractions along the way.

Embrace the journey, and don’t be afraid to deviate from your original itinerary to create lasting memories.

Planning your route in advance minimises your chances of getting lost, and also allows you to predict and prepare for scheduled roadworks or traffic issues.

3. Pick your itinerary

After selecting your destination, the next step is to plan your itinerary carefully. This involves identifying the attractions and sights you want to see along the way and selecting the best route to travel to each destination safely.

To plan your itinerary effectively, you’ll need to study maps, read travel guides, and research the area to understand what is feasible within your timeframe. It’s a good idea to plan a specific itinerary for each day of your road trip to ensure that you stay on track and make the most of your time. Additionally, booking accommodation in advance can provide peace of mind and ensure you have a place to stay each night.

4. Check up on your vehicle before going

Before hitting the road, make sure your vehicle is in top-notch condition. Check the oil, tire pressure, and coolant levels. Consider getting a professional tune-up to ensure everything is running smoothly. It’s better to address any mechanical issues beforehand rather than dealing with them during your trip.

5. Prepare vehicle insurance and other documents

Don’t forget to bring your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. If you’re traveling across borders, make sure to have your passports or any required travel visas.

Additionally, keep important contact numbers handy, such as your roadside assistance provider and emergency contacts.

6. Share driving duties with a friend

Even the most sedate of trips across the country could be dangerous if conducted with a sole driver; exhaustion and dehydration are both key factors here, that can raise the risk of an accident.

To keep things fun as well as safe, you should have more than one driver for your trip. Another of your party could get a short-term car insurance plan out on your vehicle, enabling them to drive it as well as you.

7. Bring a roadside emergency kit

Prepare for the unexpected by packing a roadside emergency kit. Include essentials like a spare tire, jack, jumper cables, flashlight, and a first aid kit. It’s also a good idea to have a portable phone charger and a basic toolkit in case you need to make minor repairs along the way.

8. Have backup navigation tools (that isn’t a smartphone)

Although smartphones have become indispensable, it’s wise to have a backup navigation system. Carry printed maps or invest in a reliable GPS device to stay on track, especially if you encounter areas with limited cellular coverage.

9. Pack cleaning accessories

Having some essentials with you while on a road trip is important, such as wet wipes, paper towels, and trash bags.

During the drive, the amount of trash can quickly pile up, and having these items will keep your car clean and tidy. Additionally, when visiting places like national parks, your hands and face can easily become dirty, and having wet wipes or paper towels can help you freshen up before moving on to the next destination.

Pack these essential items to make your road trip experience more enjoyable.

10. Bring snacks and drinks

Long hours on the road can make you hungry and thirsty. Pack a cooler with refreshing drinks and healthy snacks to keep everyone energized during the trip. Opt for items that won’t easily perish, like granola bars, trail mix, and fruit. Don’t forget to stay hydrated by having plenty of water on hand.

11. Bring your own entertainment

To make the journey more enjoyable, bring along entertainment options for everyone. Create a playlist of everyone’s favorite tunes or download audiobooks and podcasts. If you’re traveling with kids, consider portable gaming devices, coloring books, or car-friendly games to keep them engaged and entertained.

12. Bring comfort essentials

Ensure a comfortable ride by packing essential items. Bring pillows, blankets, and extra layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary throughout your trip. Travel pillows and seat cushions can also provide added comfort during long stretches on the road.

13. Have cash and several cards on you

While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for tolls, parking fees, or small businesses that may not accept cards. It’s also beneficial to carry multiple cards in case of loss, theft, or any unexpected issues.