If you want more than the airport to hotel to airport combination, and a little more excitement and engagement with wherever you are traveling, then going on a road trip might be just what you are looking for, and depending on where you live, the best and most convenient way to get around anyway, and the one you are most used to since childhood. Of course, before going on any trip, there are a bunch of things that should be considered, checked, and done first, like packing properly, planning the proper route, checking the weather forecast, and so on, but one of the most important factors is your vehicle of course, as that will be doing the most work and is the most crucial factor in your trip. Your very life and safety depend on your vehicle, so it makes sense to make absolutely sure that everything is in order and that your vehicle can handle the journey. With that principle in mind, here is a quick guide to get you started, so that your vacation goes as smoothly as possible.
Can it make the drive?
The first question you should be asking yourself is whether your car will be able to make the drive, a factor that many don’t even consider until it is too late. Driving your vehicle for long distances is obviously going to push it much harder than just going for a quick spin to the shops or to work. Age actually doesn’t generally determine whether you should drive your car over long distances or not, as an older or high-mileage car that is regularly maintained should be fine to take on a road trip. Of course, if you have any doubts about your old ride, you can just start looking for a replacement, as seen at Toowoomba car sales, and not have to worry about your car’s condition at all. Otherwise, make sure to have your car serviced before starting on the trip, but also be aware that not every car is equal, as some are better known for quality, reliability, and high standards of manufacturing than others. Toyota for example, can boast that their pick-ups are the favorites of insurgency groups all over the globe.
Safety
After you have determined that your car can actually make the trip, you have to make sure that it is safe to drive, and a reliable vehicle will not only ensure you arrive wherever you are going safely but also save you from having to deal with unexpected breakdowns that might cost you hours or even longer and expensive on the go repairs. It is vital that you ensure that your car is mechanically sound and in great condition before embarking on a trip of any length. Check your vehicle’s maintenance history, do a thorough inspection yourself as much as you can, and have it serviced and given a check-up by your mechanics before hitting the road. Good practices include replacing air filters and checking oil levels, tire pressure, and brakes before taking off. If you take care of your car, it should take good care of you, letting you enjoy a stress-free road trip filled with adventure, laughter, and memories to last a lifetime.
Space and Size
Another thing you need to look into before the trip is that you want to make sure you have enough space for everything, making appropriate accommodations for all your passengers, as you will all be spending a significant amount of time in the car. Make sure that you have packed everything you will need for the trip and to keep you comfortable for the duration. Depending on where your destination is, you might even want to think about packing some camping gear. To that end, jeeps like Range Rovers and the like are probably going to offer the most packing space you could ask for, or a minivan or a spacious SUV if you have more people and less luggage. If you aren’t interested in a car that large, vehicles like the Audi A6 or Honda Jazz are also well-known and held in high regard for their interior space while not taking up as much room on the outside.
Convenience and Comfort
Once the basic space considerations have been handled, it is time to take a bit of a closer look at the experience you and your passengers will have inside the car as well. This means you should consider the comfort of the inside, and entertainment can make or break the quality of a road trip. This is triply true if you have children with you. As any parent can tell you, having some onboard entertainment can make a long trip that much less stressful and that much more enjoyable, be it songs, audiobooks, podcasts on the speakers, or just some videos or movies on a screen. Keep these things in mind when thinking of comfort. When packing everything into your car, think carefully about what will not be needed until you arrive at your destination and can be packed as you like, and the things you will need quick and easy access to during the trip, such as snacks, wet wipes, chargers, perhaps a change of clothes, laptops, and so on. Plan around this, and make sure the things you will need are close to you and your passengers.
Road trips can be incredibly fun and memorable—adventures where you are on no one’s clock but your own, free to go as you please, stop and start when you please, and in general, just experiencing true freedom—the nomad’s life, almost if you want to get romantic. With so many things really hinging on your car, you obviously have to be absolutely sure that it can handle the trip, that you have enough space for yourself, your passengers, and your luggage, that it is safe and reliable and in good condition to drive, and that there aren’t any nasty surprises waiting for you under the hood or the like.
