Road trips are meant to be fun and an opportunity for you to enjoy nature at its best. But in this period of Covid-19, embarking on a road trip means paying particular attention to the protocols in place and preparing adequately to counter any mishaps that may occur on your travels. Here are some helpful tips to keep you safe on your journey.
The Ford Explorer is one of the most legendary American vehicles for road trips. However, while things are a bit different this year, there are still some things that are the same. Either way though, we can't wait to get back out on the road and enjoy the massaging seats again while watching the world go by.
Here are some tips to help make your next road trip easier, safer, and healthier - even in an age where we have to worry about COVID-19.
Plan your Route In Advance
Before you embark on your journey, plan your route, and decide how you want or expect the road trip to look like. Consider the restrictions in place on your route, and be sure you can comply with them. Map out all the places you will like to visit and if there are tourist sites on your map, find out if they are still open to the public.
Planning your route ensures that you do not get lost along the way or have to waste time asking for directions. Make it a point to know where gas stations and grocery stores are located on your route. Consider identifying pharmacies or eateries that are also close to your route and, if possible, find out their working hours.
It is always nice to pick out small towns that are off the well-traveled roads to give you an authentic road trip experience. Do remember to adhere to the Covid-19 protocols and respect any other directives you may be given when you are in a town.
Maps Are Important
Whether you are using the traditional paper ones or GPS, maps are important as you are venturing into places you have never been. It is advisable to download offline versions of Google maps for the areas you will be visiting if you are unsure of having internet connectivity. It is also good to have an old-fashioned paper map with you if your phone battery dies so that you can at least navigate your way back to civilization.
Take Frequent Breaks
Take frequent breaks when you are on the road to avoid driving while tired. And if you are traveling with friends, alternate drivers every few hours so that you can all feel rested. You can also take an hour off the road to just stretch your limbs so that you do not suffer cramps.
Water is Life
Be sure you stock up on water. Have a lot of it in your car, especially if you are traveling in remote areas. Rather than going for plastics bottles, settle for water cans that you can manage much better. Ration the water by giving daily allocations in order not to waste it and have enough to last you during an emergency.
Look Out For Good Bathrooms
With various destinations having restaurants close for indoor dining and other health protocols, it can be challenging to find safe bathrooms to use. An easy solution is to grab a portable urinal though apps exist that can help you find locations that are open and even have reviews to help you find the perfect spot to squat.
Have Enough Fuel
Having extra fuel could go a long way to get you out of a sticky situation. Imagine getting stuck in the middle of nowhere with no gas; that is one of the worst-case scenarios. Be sure to carry extra fuel in jerry cans and do not use them until necessary. As much as possible, fill up or top up your fuel at every gas station you come across just to make sure you are not left stranded.
Pack Emergency Food And Snacks
When packing supplies, make sure you pack non-perishable food items that can last at least two days for the whole traveling party. Aside from the fact that an emergency may arise and you will need food, other issues might occur that may require that you extend your trip by a day or two. Having emergency food packs will ameliorate the urgency, and you can have something decent to eat. As with the fuel, always get a few food supplies whenever you pass through a grocery store or a gas station with a shop.
Mind The Weather
The weather can greatly affect your road trip, so you must be mindful of it. Constantly check for weather updates on your current location and your next destination. This will give you a fair idea of what to expect and what preparation you should make so that you are not caught off-guard. Driving safely in good weather is expected, but it is better to prepare for other unsavory conditions.
Perform A Complete Check Of Your Vehicle
Embarking on such a trip is sure to put a good amount of strain on your vehicle. So, before you set off, be sure to have your vehicle serviced by professionals such as Riley Ford. Important things to look out for are the tires and tire pressure, battery, lights, brake and brake fluid, oil, and coolant. Make sure all these are checked and are in optimum condition before you head out onto your big adventure.
Pack Spare Tools
Packing spare tools is great for contingency planning as you do not know when something could go wrong or if another traveler may need your help. You should also pack things such as extra spark plugs, transmission oil, engine oil, duct tape, a can of WD40, a winch, a portable air compressor, and zip ties for the journey.
First Aid Kit
For all emergencies, make sure you have a first aid kit on standby. A good first aid kit must contain some saline solution, tweezers, triangle bandage, space blanket, bandaids, antibiotics, compression bandages, CPR mask, antiseptic wipes, sunscreen, tourniquet, a snake bite kit, antiseptic cream, necessary pain killers, antihistamines, water purification tablets, hand sanitizer, mosquito repellent, scissors, ear, and eye drops. These items can help you salvage any medical emergency you might experience on the road trip. However, do not forget to pack your travel insurance and quickly get to the nearest hospital for professional medical attention in the event of an emergency.
Pack Other Essentials
You should pack other things even though they may seem not so important as they offer some amount of protection or can help you get out of some situations. Some of these are extra toilet paper, a fire extinguisher, a pen and pencil, a lighter or box of matches, a compass, a pair of welding gloves, and a tarpaulin.
