If you are going on a road trip vacation, planning is important.
Road trip planning leads a happy campers. (Source:New Zealand Mirror Travel)
Taking the time in advance to plan will help make your vacation enjoyable and stress-free, according to a LoveToKnow news release.
For a family road trip, consider renting an RV, if you do not already own one. You’ll combine transportation and lodging costs. You’ll also cut down the food cost of restaurants as you can use the RV kitchen to prepare meals and snacks.
A good way to save is to research RV parks and campgrounds along the itinerary for the best rates on overnight stops.
Set a Budget
Planning a budget first will help when planning the itinerary and will prevent over-spending. You’ll need to budget for:
- Fuel
- RV parks/campgrounds
- Food
- Admission fees
- Miscellaneous expenses
- Emergencies
Decide how much you will need to spend in each category. If you need to adjust some categories to make the totals match, do so.
Map a Route
Gather maps and atlases to plan your route. (Source: lovetoknow.com)
Gather maps and atlases to plan your route. While interstates are faster, scenic byways and state routes are usually more interesting. Decide the distance you’ll drive each day and allow extra time. Weather and construction can slow you down.
Check with the state department of transportation for road construction in progress, so you can avoid those areas. You should plan on frequent breaks in the schedule so the drive won’t be so tiring.
Allow Extra Time
Nothing will take the enjoyment out of a road trip quicker than that “rushed” feeling. Be realistic about time constraints; allow plenty of time to enjoy each stop.
Don’t try to see everything in one trip; save something for the next time.
Don’t feel that every moment needs to be planned. Leave ample time for a spontaneous side trip.
Plan for Emergencies
While you hope nothing unforeseen happens, it’s better to be prepared in case it does:
- Have all car maintenance up to date
- Understand all campground cancellation requirements
- Let friends and relatives know your itinerary and how to contact you
- Take a copy of your vehicle insurance policy with you
- Pack the names and phone number of the family doctor
For long road trips, plan a variety of activities to keep everyone entertained, such as:
- Watch movies on DVD
- Play car games
- Read books aloud
- Bring pillows for a comfortable nap
Packing List
The night before leaving on the road trip will be less hectic if you have planned what to pack.
The night before leaving on the road trip will be less hectic if you have planned what to pack. Be careful not to over pack, take only what you need. You can always do laundry on the road. Take snacks, especially healthy ones, to save on fuel stop cravings.
Make a Memorable Road Trip
With some advance preparation, the road trip can be one you will remember for a long time.
Details
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Worth Pondering…
I hear the highway calling. It’s time for a road trip.