It’s no secret that most of our travel adventures have been road trips. For us, it’s been an easy way to make the most of our adventures by having the flexibility to make additional stops and journey a little off the beaten path.
However, if you aren’t prepared, things can go south.
Below, I have outlined a few things to keep in mind while planning road trips that are a little off the beaten path.
Yo! Where’s Your Map?
In this day and age of technology, often times we neglect paper. But, I’m here to tell you – if you plan to road trip off of the beaten path make sure that you have a paper map of the area or atlas.
While on our recent travel adventure to Cherokee Landing, my GPS went off grid and we found ourselves wandering through the backwoods of Mississippi until the GPS got its act together.
Since, I knew I was headed in the right direction, I wasn’t too worried, but I also make sure to take my Road Atlas with me whenever I am road tripping.
Service Your Vehicle
If you are planning to travel in your own vehicle make sure that it is safe for travel. Be sure that your car will perform well and has been checked and serviced.
For example, make sure the oil has been changed, the tires have been checked, and any additional milestone services are done prior to your trip.
Have Cash Handy
I know digital currency is the thing right now, but not all towns are as modernized as you may think. So, be sure to have cash available for places that you may stop at that don’t have access to more modernized currency systems.
Think of fruit stands and old-fashioned gas stations. They still exist.
Insurance and Roadside Assistance
Take a look at your current insurance card and make sure you have your current card handy. Also, make sure that you have a roadside assistance plan that will cover any issues that you may encounter while on your adventure such as flat tire repairs and gas.
Don’t Over Pack
Don’t clutter your vehicle and mind with attempting to pack too much. Pack the basics and keep it moving.
Often times when we travel, we only take a few outfits or keep all the colors consistent to mix things up a bit (mini wardrobe capsules).
In many of our adventuring photos, you will see that we wear a lot of the same things. It doesn’t fit the bill for the trendy fashionista, but it keeps things simple and flowing for us.
Bring Your Own Food and Drinks
I do not ever go on a road trip without packing a cooler first with food, snacks, and beverages. By doing this, we always have something on hand and don’t have to go over our budget by spending too much at fast food places or convenience stores.
Be Open Minded
Be open minded when deciding upon roadside attractions. Many of the most fascinating places we have come across have been a little ways off the beaten path. It’s helpful to plan them out ahead of time, but this is not always the case.
Sometimes, as you drive you see things you wouldn’t mind checking out. My advice is to check it out because you never know if you’ll get the opportunity again.
To learn more about random roadside attractions, check out Roadside America.
Technology
There is still some technology you should bring, however. So, don’t forget your phone and camera – just to name a few!
Final Thoughts
Following these tips should help you create a road trip that’s exciting, safe, and creates a lot of memories for you and your family.
Last Updated 5/22/19
