For citizens of the US and foreigners to its shores, there’s something dazzlingly magnificent about some of the open roads across the United States. From the lakes and forests of the north down to the Rockies and into the deserts of the south, there’s an incredible array of landscapes on offer – and that’s not to mention the cities you’ll pass through on the way. So, road trips are common in the US; but how can you do them in the right way? This article has the answers.
Planning
Planning your journey is probably the most important aspect of any longer road trip across the US. Some of the longest road trips – those that continue for many months – will require planning on a number of fronts:
- Get the right insurance coverage in place
You should already have insurance in place if you have a car and drive it. However, before you set off, you will want to make sure that this insurance hasn’t expired and offers you all the coverage you need. For example, if you find yourself in an accident and your car is beyond repair on the trip, are you covered to be provided with a rental or options to get back home? If not, this is the time to start seeking out alternative Austin auto insurance options that are good value, protective of your vehicle, and helpful to you no matter the situation. You may even find that looking into new insurance actually offers you a lower rate.
- What to pack
Next up, you’ll want to think about what you’ll pack, given you’ll be living out of a car for some time. Make sure there’s a little safety kit in your packing, such as a first aid kit in case you’re hurt when you’re out on the road and the basic vehicle repair gear such as the equipment you’ll need if you experience a flat tire, miles from the nearest garage.
Route
Most US road trips tend to take in a variety of landscapes. That’s what’s so exciting about trips like this: they expose you to different natural areas. But to get through these different vistas, you’re going to need to plan your route. It would be a shame if you travelled through the Great Lakes without stopping off in Chicago, for instance – or through Texas without exploring Austin.
So, a good route plan will help you tick off all the sights you’re most keen to take in on your road trip. You can make a route plan using an online route planner, or download an app to make your life easier. Even calculating distances and the time it’ll take to drive them will help you make sense of your wider adventure.
Be Adventurous
A road trip is as exciting as you make it. If you have your family in tow, you may wish to keep things safe and relaxed, slowly weaving through the country with plenty of stop-offs for food and children’s activities. But if you’re going solo or with friends, you should consider getting involved in adventures along the way.
Be that white-water rafting in the valleys of the Rockies or taking a hike through a forest to a wonderful viewpoint, getting out of your vehicle is as important on a road trip as the time you spend within it. So, as you make your plans and draw up your route, be sure to factor in the days you’ll want to spend out in nature or exploring new cities. It’s all part of the fun – and how you’ll make your trip truly memorable.
Make a note of these road trip tips if you’re planning on hitting the open road in the weeks or months to come.
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