Temperatures are warming up and many families are hitting the road for the annual summer road trip. Before you take off on your road adventure, it is important to have a plan put in place to guide your journey. Here are three important things to research when planning a road trip.
Weather
Just because it is your vacation, you should not just assume that you will have picture-perfect weather the entire trip. Planning for a myriad of weather conditions will ensure that you are prepared for anything that Mother Nature may throw your way. For example, if your travels will be taking you over mountain passes, it is important to be prepared for cold or snow, even during the warmer months of the year. If you are traveling through the Midwest during tornado season, be sure to educate yourself about the potential dangers of this weather system. One option is to learn how to drive in different types of weather conditions so that you are prepared for whatever weather comes your way. Another option is to choose your vehicle wisely. Avis explains that certain vehicles are better at handling snow or rough terrain than others. If you are planning to rent a car, then ask the rental agency for advice on what type of car is best for the local area.
Distracted Driving Laws
As the dangers of smartphone use while driving becomes more apparent, more and more states are enacting legislation to reduce accidents. According to Boohoff Law, in Washington, drivers can receive a citation if any part of their body touches any part of their phone, necessitating that the drivers only engage in hands free calling. Before you hit the road, be sure to research the various distracted driving laws in the states on your itinerary. Ignorance of the laws will not be a good enough excuse if you happen to get pulled over. Putting somebody else in charge of all navigation and smartphone use will help the driver to avoid the temptation of reaching for the phone.
Basic Lodging Options
While part of the benefits of a road trip is the spontaneity that it encourages, it is also important to have a basic framework in place to guide your adventure. One of the things that you will want to research is the lodging options available to you on your route. The last thing that you want is to get stuck in the middle of nowhere in the dark without a place to sleep. Having a few options set in place before you take off will help to ensure that you are not left without a place to rest. When you have a particular destination in mind, booking your lodging early on can help save you money. Park Savers explains that some theme parks and attractions partner with hotels to provide discounted rates, so it’s worth exploring these options if know you will be staying in a particular location.
Half of the fun of any road trip is the planning! It’s important to plan carefully so that you can get the most out of your trip. With the right research and planning, you can ensure a great trip as you cultivate memories that will last your family a lifetime.
While you’re on your trip, you’ll want to make sure you have food. If you’re road tripping through the Emerald Coast area, we can help! Take a look at our selection of products, and we’ll deliver them right to you!