Practicalities of a Road Trip: Navigating the Essentials for a Smooth Journey
B esides the romanticized image of a road trip depicted above and focused on freedom, adventure, and spontaneity, the truth is that a successful road trip also relies on meticulous planning and attention to practical details. Whether you’re a seasoned road warrior or embarking on your first journey, understanding and mastering the practical aspects of road-tripping is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
- Route Planning
As mentioned earlier, it is essential for the success of a road trip to have at least a rough draft of the itinerary. You do not have to stick to the classic routes, but can be inspired by a book you fell in love with long ago, a film, song, or album, or the biography and life of someone you admire – in my case, Iceland has been on my radar since I was five years old when I first read Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Centre of the Earth”. An old-fashioned paper map is a valuable reference tool as it provides a visual overview of the place you want to visit – and it can come in handy if for some reason your GPS is unavailable at some point during your trip. Set some key stops and/or places you want to visit and use your favourite app GPS to get an idea of the distance and time needed for that route. Do not hesitate to consult as many sources as possible to find out about road conditions and other aspects that may affect your plans (road works, weather conditions, etc.). Also, make sure you know where petrol stations are located to avoid the risk of running out of fuel when traveling in remote areas.
- Navigation Tools and Internet Connection
Besides the trusty old paper map I mentioned in the previous paragraph, efficient digital navigation tools make it much easier to get around. There are several variables to consider: For example, are you traveling in your country or abroad? How much time do you plan to spend driving (Do not forget that if you are visiting an unfamiliar place, you will probably use your GPS to walk around the city or find the best public transport, etc.)? Does your provider’s mobile data offer include interesting options for data roaming in the country (or countries) you plan to visit? Does it allow you to use as much internet data as you need (remember that you will probably use the internet for many other purposes, not just navigation)?
If you don’t want to or can’t use your regular mobile data, a mobile hotspot is the best solution; I recommend this if you are traveling abroad. If you are renting a vehicle, the extra cost of a mobile hotspot, along with some additional insurance options, is one of the smartest expenses you can make – you can stay connected as often as you need to, and since they use local providers, the connection is usually very reliable. If you are traveling with your vehicle, you may consider using a local card for mobile data.
Now, I admit that this can lead to an excess of digitalization and networking, while you seek the opposite: Is it still possible to circumvent the digital navigation tools? I think so. Will this have an impact on the efficiency of your journey? Maybe yes… Would I take the risk? Definitely no… But that’s just me, and my slightly obsessive nature.
- Power
This aspect is partly related to the previous point but extends to any kind of equipment you may want to use during your road trip; it is especially important if your vehicle and/or tent will be your home for some time. There are several devices that you may need to charge: Your phone, your computer, your watch, your camera and drone batteries (especially in cold temperatures), your headlamp, your internet hotspot, etc. An inverter that you can plug into a 12 V accessory socket is the easiest way to ensure that everything is charged while you are driving. Inverters usually have a certain number of USB ports and at least two normal sockets. Make sure that the device you want to charge is compatible with the output of the inverter (hairdryers, drills, electric cookers, and many other electrical devices cannot be operated via a normal inverter).
Power banks (which can be charged via the inverter), chargers, cords, and adapters are other indispensable utensils for a modern road trip. Again, their indispensability depends on your travel style and connectivity needs, but they can give you a lot of peace of mind.
- Vehicle
When you are on the road with your vehicle, make sure it is in optimum condition. Schedule a thorough maintenance check, including oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations to reduce the risk of breakdowns. Don’t forget to carry essential spares such as spare tires, jacks, jumper cables, and basic tools, and familiarise yourself with how to use these items in case of emergencies.
If you want to rent a vehicle, book it in advance – especially if you are traveling in high season. It is helpful to have an itinerary in mind when choosing the features of the car or van you want to drive: Pay particular attention to road conditions and the time of year to decide whether you need a vehicle with four-wheel drive and/or studded tyres; consider whether you may need extra heating and/or a fridge; storage space is also an important aspect to consider when choosing a rental vehicle. Take the time to read all the rental company’s insurance policy documents and make sure that the insurance option you choose is appropriate for the places you want to visit and the activities you want to pursue: If you are wavering between two offers, take the most comprehensive one. Finally, find out about local speed limits and driving rules.
- Emergency Kit
The relevance of this point depends on where you are travelling but being prepared for unexpected and unpredictable conditions is key to a smooth and successful road trip.
Assemble an emergency kit with first aid supplies, torches, blankets, non-perishable food, and water: A long queue, a mechanical breakdown, or a sudden and violent change in the weather are far less annoying if you are properly equipped.
- Budget and payment methods
If you’re going on a road trip, being on top of your finances ensures a smooth and worry-free trip. First, create a well-thought-out budget that takes into account all possible expenses. Consider the cost of fuel, accommodation, food, activities, and potential emergencies – because unexpected situations can arise. This financial plan will guide you and prevent impulsive spending that could derail your trip. It’s also important to be prepared for different payment scenarios. Take different means of payment with you, e.g., cash, credit cards, and a spare card. This versatility is invaluable, especially in remote areas or if you encounter places that only accept certain means of payment; a pre-charged debit card can be useful if you prefer not to use your regular cards that allow access to your bank accounts. Finally, careful record-keeping is your most important ally in maintaining financial discipline. Keep a detailed log of your spending throughout your trip. This way, you can stick to your budget, but also make sure you don’t accidentally overspend.
- Accommodation
Finding the right balance between spontaneity and preparation is essential for a successful road trip. Booking accommodation early, especially at peak travel times, will ensure a restful night’s sleep after a day on the road. If you decide to camp, make sure you thoroughly research the availability of campsites and their regulations, especially in popular areas such as national parks, as some require you to book several months in advance. If you find this balance, you can embark on the adventure without giving up the comfort of a safe place to sleep.
In the world of road trips, preparation is the cornerstone of a successful journey. Every detail, from packing wisely to plotting routes efficiently, plays a pivotal role. The practical elements, like diligent vehicle maintenance and adept navigation, are the secrets to a seamless and delightful adventure. Be sure to consult your checklist, keep your vehicle in top shape, and relish the liberating allure of the open road. Wishing you safe and joyful travels!
