While Route 66 might often grab the headlines, nowadays, road trips are oh-so-much more than the stereotypical classics. If you can make it over the pond, go for it! However, if you’re looking for a solution closer to home, there are fantastic options in the UK – as long as you play your cards right.
Through today, we’ll now look at some of the best tips you can adopt when planning the ultimate summer road trip.
Have a rough plan in mind
For many people, the whole point of a road trip is to be spontaneous. In other words, strict schedules are out of the window, and you want to take each day as it comes. However, it always bids to have a rough idea of what you want to do, particularly in the summer months. Let’s not forget that this is the peak travel season and accommodation will be at a premium.
For example, the New Forest is a popular destination for this type of holiday. Here, you may need to plan slightly further ahead and beat the obvious demand that will ensue. Reach out to hotels in the likes of Basingstoke, Eastleigh, or Winchester beforehand, and try and put together a rough itinerary.
Sure, this step might not be required at some times of the year, and you can book hotels as you choose. However, a small degree of planning is needed for the popular travel periods.
Is your vehicle up to scratch?
Most of you will know if your vehicle is up to the job, but it’s worth bearing in mind nonetheless. After all, a car that’s seen better days is going to add a considerable amount of stress to the trip. If you’re going to be driving long distances, you need to ensure that the vehicle can handle it. This means that a quick service is definitely on the cards before you set off on your travels.
In addition, you also need to make sure that you’re aware of any potential issues the car might have. For example, if you’ve spotted a warning light that keeps coming on and off – now is the time to take action.
Or, what about the air conditioning? Again, in the peak of summer, this turns from a nice-to-have to a must-have – it’s essential to make sure it’s up to scratch long before you depart.
Prepare for down days
Even the most action-packed road trips are going to have their down days. It’s not uncommon to be sick of travelling for a day or even more, looking to down tools, and just staying in one location.
In addition, you should also make sure that you’re aware of some of the attractions and landmarks in the areas you’ll be visiting. On those down days, they could be the perfect option to help you break the monotony.
Pack the right supplies
You might not be able to take your entire house with you on the road, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take some home comforts with you.
After all, this is a holiday, and you should still be able to relax and unwind, even if you are on the move.
This might mean packing some of your favourite snacks and bringing along some games or books to keep you entertained. It might not be the most traditional road trip, but it’ll definitely make life more comfortable.
