Are you planning a road trip to the beautiful landscapes in the United States? Certainly, car drives are freeing and filling us with the energy and adventure that we seek for. Who doesn’t look forward to having some time off while taking pictures, camping at the stops and barbecuing food? However, it would help if you had good planning and organization before heading for a car drive. It’s not just about keeping some food, using a GPS or Google Guides and heading to the steering wheel. Let’s prepare you for the next beautiful car ride.
1. Download The Right Apps On Your Phone
Car drives are impossible without installing a GPS in your car and downloading the Google Maps app on your smartphone. However, you can’t solely depend on Google Maps. Install other applications like-
Waze- It keeps you updated with real-time traffic information such as accidents, road closures, construction sites etc.
Scout GPS:
Unlike other apps, Scout GPS offers social connection functionality such as suggesting nearby restaurants or sharing your ETA with people in your contact list.
Also, ensure that you have online payment apps for the route. Make sure that your mobile phone has a good internet connection. How are you, otherwise, going to use these applications? We would advise you to keep an extra SIM card to avoid the risk of losing all internet connection.
2. Speed Limit
Every state in the United States has set its own speed limits, and you must follow that. Also, if an accident occurs, please be aware that you may be held responsible for causing an accident due to speeding, even if it is in the free speed range. You are not just putting your’s and passengers’ safety at risk, but also might put a huge financial burden on you. The insurance company may refuse to give you full coverage in such cases.
When traveling, make sure to carry your registration certificate and insurance card. Keep a safety vest, a warning triangle and a well-equipped first aid kit in your car.
3. Take Proper Rest
Before starting the journey, you should keep in mind that it can be strenuous.
Replenish your energy levels by getting at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep 3 days before your trip. Our tip is always to avoid driving in the midnight hours between 1 am and 3 am because-
Statistics show that the majority of accidents happen around this time.
Your body temperature is low, eventually making you feel tired and drowsy.
To recharge yourself after feeling exhausted during a car drive, you can-
Grab a healthy snack and energy drink.
Keep munching on dry fruits.
Avoid eating junk and oily foods that can make your stomach feel heavy.
4. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy
Another important thing is to always have emergency contact information with you in case of an emergency. This is one of the most important road trip tips for solo travelers. However, the biggest mistake we make is storing contacts on our smartphones. Since phones are generally locked, how will someone have access to the information in case of an emergency?
It is important to write this information down on paper and keep it accessible and visible, maybe in your purse, backpack, or pocket. Others should be able to figure out how to help you in an emergency. According to the renowned car accident lawyers at Boohoff Law, you should include an accident attorney on your contact list. Car accident attorneys can help you initiate the immediate next steps after an accident.
5. Dress Appropriately
It would help if you learned about your driving route and the forecasted weather on it. Dress appropriately according to the temperature of the places you are visiting. But be prepared with a variety of clothing items as well. Pack your clothes for every new possibility and experience.
A planned road trip can be fun and safe for the driver and the passengers. Keeping in mind that organization is the key to a successful trip can save you a lot of trouble while on the road.
