If you’re going on your first road trip, be prepared to say hello to sunset drives, your favorite playlists and fun with friends. Here are a few tips that will help you have a safe and memorable journey.
1. Pack an Emergency Kit
Pack safety roadside supplies like a spare tire, flat repair kit, jumper cables, a first-aid kit and a flashlight. Depending on where you go, you may also need a fire extinguisher, reflective jacket and triangle in the car. Bring a shovel, deicer and blankets if you’re traveling in winter.
2. Stick to the Limits of Your License
If you’re new to driving and have your intermediate license, know the rules of each place you may visit on your First Road Trip. For example, young people in Iowa can drive from 5 a.m. up to 12:30 a.m. with written consent from a parent or guardian, while Oklahoma only allows up to 10 p.m. with an accompanying adult older than 21.
3. Prepare Your Car
Ensure your car’s engine goes through some tuning before the big trip. You’ll also want to do a few maintenance checks:
- Check the battery and ensure the connections are corrosion-free and tight.
- Inspect engine belts and hoses to keep your electrical, cooling and power steering systems functioning well.
- Ensure tires are inflated to the correct pressure.
- Check fluids like engine oil, windshield fluid and transmission fluid. Also, ensure the engine filter is clean from dust or debris buildup.
- Make sure the brakes, accelerator and lights are working.
- Use a newer car if possible. Models older than 2012 are not as equipped as modern vehicles to handle the levels of ethanol found in E-15 gas.
4. Travel With a Friend
Prevent distracted driving by traveling with a friend. Your friend can program the GPS, change the playlist or skip to the next song if needed. They can also respond to any important messages while you drive. Teens are among the most likely to text or email while driving, which presents a safety risk, and you can avoid doing so altogether with a passenger. Remember to watch for motorcycle drivers since distracted driving can cause an accident when merging or switching lanes.
When you eat, stop the car and have your meal before driving again. Also, check in with yourself emotionally — being upset can cause distraction by taking your mind off the road. If it doesn’t feel safe to drive, swap with your friend or find a place to chill and wait it out. It’s also a good idea to rotate drivers every two hours so everyone can rest, have something to eat and feel refreshed when it’s their turn to take the wheel.
5. Follow the Basic Rules of the Road
Remember the rules of the road you studied before getting your driver’s license. Always drive at a safe speed and maintain a safe distance between yourself and other vehicles. Be sure to leave two seconds between the back of the vehicle ahead and the front of your car.
Avoid cutting off other vehicles, and don’t stop on the shoulder if you’re pulled over or have an emergency. Follow all relevant traffic signals and ensure you have your license close by. These are just some of the rules that will help create a smooth trip.
6. Keep Your Parents Updated
Establish a communication plan before you go on your adventure. Let your parents know your route, when you expect to arrive and any stops along the way. Update your location regularly or install an app on your smartphone or a car tracker that allows them to track your movements. This makes it easier for them to help should you need it.
7. Don’t Forget Entertainment
What makes First Road Trip so fun is the memories you make on the way. Remember to take some entertainment with you. Line up a good playlist that will last the journey, pack lots of snacks and consider driver-friendly games. You can play 21 questions, complete the lyrics of a popular song and try word association. Bring a camera to record memories.
8. Consider Traveling the Eco-Friendly Way
Look for eco-hotels or green accommodations if you’re big on sustainable travel. You can also keep your carbon footprint to a minimum by carrying your own refillable water bottle, coffee cup and straws. Look for small or family-owned restaurants to stop at for meals or have a picnic at a travel plaza.
Prioritize fuel efficiency by driving at a steady speed in a higher gear and using cruise control where possible. It also helps to press the brake and accelerator lightly to preserve gas.
Enjoy Your First Road Trip
Prepare yourself for your first road trip so you have maximum fun without the fuss. Planning will keep your vacation on track and ensure you’ll have a wonderful time. The journey can be just as