Road trips are the ultimate adventure. The freedom of the open road, discovering hidden gems along the way, and the thrill of going wherever the map takes you—that’s what makes road trips so exciting. But before you get caught up in the wanderlust, there’s some planning to do. After all, there’s nothing worse than being halfway down the motorway only to realise you’ve left something important behind.
To help ensure your road trip goes off without a hitch, here are ten things you absolutely shouldn’t forget before hitting the road.
1. A Solid Plan (But Not Too Rigid!)
Sure, part of the fun of a road trip is being spontaneous, but a little bit of planning goes a long way. Take some time to sketch out your route. Make a list of places you want to visit and sights you don’t want to miss. But don’t make it so rigid that it turns into a strict itinerary. Flexibility is key here. Allow room for detours and spontaneous adventures—you never know when you’ll stumble across something incredible that wasn’t in the guidebook.
2. Mapping Out EV Charging Stations (If You’ve Gone Electric)
If you’re cruising in an electric vehicle (EV), you’ll need to be smart about where and when you’re going to charge up. Unlike petrol stations, charging stations can be a bit more spaced out, especially if you’re heading off the beaten path. Before setting off, map out where the EV power charging stations are along your route. There are apps and websites that can help you find the nearest charging points, so make sure you have those handy. And, if you’re heading into more remote areas, plan ahead to ensure you’re not left stranded with a flat battery.
3. Car Maintenance Check
This one’s a biggie. You don’t want to be that person stuck on the hard shoulder waiting for a tow truck. Before you leave, give your car a thorough once-over. Check the oil, tyre pressure, brake fluid, and coolant levels. Make sure the spare tyre is in good shape and that your jack and wrench are in the boot. If your car’s due for a service, book it in before your trip. And, don’t forget to check your windscreen wipers—British weather can be unpredictable, and you’ll want to see where you’re going if you’re caught in a downpour!
4. Roadside Emergency Kit
Let’s be real, emergencies can happen. Whether it’s a flat tyre, a dead battery, or some other unexpected mishap, it’s best to be prepared. Make sure you’ve packed a roadside emergency kit that includes jump leads, a torch, reflective warning triangles, and a first aid kit. It might seem like overkill, but you’ll thank yourself if you ever need to use it.
5. Snacks and Drinks
Never underestimate the importance of good road trip snacks. Whether you’re planning to munch on crisps, fruit, or sweets, having snacks on hand can keep you from getting “hangry” (we’ve all been there). Make sure you’ve got plenty of water as well—staying hydrated is crucial, especially if you’re driving for long stretches. Bonus tip: pack a small cooler for items like sandwiches or fruit to keep them fresh for longer.
6. Entertainment Options
Long stretches of road can get a bit tedious after a while, especially if you’re travelling with kids or friends who are prone to boredom. Stock up on entertainment to keep everyone happy. Audiobooks, podcasts, or a killer playlist can make the time fly by. For passengers, a few games, books, or travel-sized puzzles will help pass the time. And let’s not forget the classic road trip games—nothing like a bit of “I Spy” to keep things interesting.
7. Sat Nav or Maps
In today’s digital age, most of us rely on our phones for navigation, but it’s always smart to have a backup plan. Pack a paper map or road atlas just in case your sat nav or phone lets you down—whether due to a flat battery, poor signal, or simply a technical glitch. Plus, maps can be fun to use, giving you a sense of adventure as you plot your journey the old-fashioned way. It’s all part of the charm!
8. Comfortable Clothes and Blankets
Comfort is key when you’re spending hours in the car. Wear clothes that are easy to move around in and bring along a cosy jumper or blanket. You never know when the temperature might drop, or if your travel companion prefers to blast the air conditioning. A small pillow can also be a game-changer for those quick rest-stop naps or for passengers trying to catch a few Z’s during the drive.
9. Important Documents
It’s easy to overlook the paperwork, but it’s critical to have your important documents with you. Double-check that your driving licence, insurance details, and any breakdown cover information are packed and easily accessible. If you’re travelling abroad, don’t forget your passport, travel insurance details, and any necessary permits. These might not be things you think about every day, but they’re essential to avoid any unnecessary headaches.
10. Chargers and Power Banks
We live in a world where staying connected is more important than ever, especially when you’re out on the road. Make sure you’ve got all the chargers you’ll need for your devices, whether it’s for your phone, camera, or tablet. And don’t forget a power bank or two—these are lifesavers when you’re miles from a socket and your battery is draining fast. Keeping your devices charged isn’t just about entertainment; it can be a safety measure, too.
Wrapping It Up
Before you hit the road, taking a bit of time to prepare can make all the difference between a smooth journey and a bumpy ride. From practical essentials like checking your car and mapping out EV charging stations to ensuring you’ve got snacks and entertainment on hand, being prepared means you can focus on what really matters—the adventure ahead.
