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A wise person once said, “happiness is the way of travel, not the destination.” In the same way, some of the most memorable parts of vacation are not the stops along the way but the journey itself. Whether you are planning a multi-day adventure or traveling long distances to get to one particular place traveling by car can be an unforgettable experience.

From driving through new cities to uncharted roads in the middle of nowhere, road trips allow you to see the world from a new perspective. However, as thrilling as road trips can be, there are plenty of potential roadblocks, no pun intended, that could put a damper on your trip.

Dangers On The Road

From your car breaking down to highway crashes, there are plenty of things that could ruin your road trip vacation experience. However, with the right vacation preparation, you can ensure the safety of not only your car but your vacation altogether. So if you are planning any kind of road trip, here are the essential tips you need to know before you go.

Prepare Your Car

Nothing ruins a road trip quicker than breaking down in the middle of nowhere. No matter how new your car may be, it is crucial to take the necessary steps to ensure your car is ready to hit the open road. If it is possible, start prepping your car a month in advance so you can give yourself enough time to do fix anything that needs to be prepared. It is important to check everything from fluid levels, tire pressure, brakes, belts, light signals, and more. If you are not sure where to start, consider bringing your car to your local mechanic for a routine service appointment.

Consider Your Needs

Your car is not the only thing that needs to be fully prepared before hitting the road. As the driver, it is crucial to be ready for any situation that may arise on your trip. Make sure you have everything from first aid kits, water, snacks, blankets, maps, jumper cables, flares, and anything else you can think of.

Tell People Where You Are Going

Whether you are going with friends or riding solo, it is important to tell family and friends where you are going during your trip in case something were to happen. Remember, road trips involve long hours on the road, so it is also important to get enough sleep before you embark on your journey.

Plan Out Hotel Stops

If you are driving long hours during your trip, it is essential to plan out hotel stops along the way to ensure you get the rest you need. While you can always stop as you need planning out specific places to rest ahead of time can save you both time and money.

For example, you never know if there is something going on that could increase the occupancy and nightly rates in an area. Booking your stay before you leave ensures you get the best price possible and guarantees you have room to stay in.

Practice Safety While Driving

With all the excitement that comes with road trips, it is easy to get distracted while on the road. While it may seem obvious, it is crucial to follow every safety precaution and stay alert as possible.

Always Buckle Up

According to the United States Department of Transportation, almost 50 percent of car accident fatalities involved people who were not wearing their seatbelts. Therefore it is crucial to make sure everyone in your car is buckled up before putting your car in drive.

Scan The Road For Hazards

Accidents can still happen no matter how safe of a driver you are. It is essential to always be on the lookout for other distracted drivers, debris in the road, and other hazardous.

In Case of An Accident

If you do find yourself in an accident while on your road trip vacation, it is vital to reach out to a lawyer who deals with these sorts of cases to help you get the compensation you deserve.

Have Fun and Stay Safe

While road trips are exciting adventures, they come with a lot of stress. In order to have the best time possible, it is important to not focus on stressful situations and allow yourself to have as much fun as you can.