10 Tips for Preparing for a Road Trip

Are you planning a road trip this spring? Here are 10 tips to help you avoid forgetting something and prepare for anything.

1. Plan your route well in advance and obtain any necessary maps, or use a GPS system for your vehicle.

It is always a great idea to have your route planned out if you are traveling for any length of time. AAA members can obtain trip picks, which include maps that have the route highlighted, as well as a travel book that provides detailed information regarding the surrounding areas. If you know someone well who is an AAA member, have him or her obtain this information for you. If you are into the latest technology, you may already have a GPS unit for your vehicle, or an electronic organizer that has GPS capabilities. All you need to do then is download the necessary maps on-line and input your destination(s).

2. Prepare your vehicle for the trip.

You will want to make sure that your vehicle is up to the trip before you even pack. It is a good idea to check fluid levels, change the oil, check tire pressure, and maybe even clean it inside and out. You will also want to make sure that you have emergency equipment (jumper cables, flares, etc.) in your trunk or in the back of your vehicle.

3. Plan carefully what you will take with you.

While you are packing, keep in mind how much space you have in your vehicle. Also keep in mind how many people will be traveling with you. You don't want to have to try and squeeze everything in at the last minute.

4. Plan your stops along the way.

Plan frequent stops for food, drinks, restroom breaks, and fun, especially if you are traveling with small children. Not all of your stops need to be planned, but having at least a few planned stops will help you schedule your trip more easily.

5. Have a passenger confirm hotel reservations or other lodging plans as you are traveling.

It is always a good idea to have at least one other adult with you. He or she can then confirm any reservations that you may have already made. If you have yet to make them, he or she can go ahead and take care of that task. In addition, he or she will serve as your navigator as well - just in case you get lost.

6. Provide people who are staying at home with your itinerary and ensure that they have your cell phone number.

You will want to let at least one person at home know of your itinerary. If something happens, he or she will know how to contact you. It is always a good idea to carry a cell phone with you. Don't forget to leave the number with your friends and family.

7. Bring a cooler with drinks and snacks, especially if you are traveling with children.

Even if you aren't traveling with children, it is a good idea to bring a cooler with you. It will save you both time and money. You won't have to stop quite as often for snacks and drinks.

8. Clean out the vehicle each evening once you arrive at your hotel or destination.

When you head out on your way every morning, the last thing you will want to do is to clean out the vehicle before you leave. You might be in a hurry to get on your way. Taking a few minutes to clean out the vehicle each evening after a day of traveling will help keep it clean, and will alert you to any stops that you might have to make (more snacks or drinks).

9. Use your traveling time to confirm your itinerary and play games.

Inevitably, there will be long, boring stretches on the highway. These are great for having the other person go through and confirm your itinerary. If you have kids traveling with you, there are plenty of easy car games that are fun for all ages.

10. Take turns driving.

One of the biggest reasons to take another adult with you is that you can take turns driving. No one person should have to do all of the driving, unless, of course, they really want to do so. After all, some people get car sick if they aren't driving.

By keeping this simple tips in mind on your next road trip, you can ensure that it will go smoothly.