A well-planned road trip can be a positive, life-affirming experience. Getting the best from this kind of holiday, however, means putting in a little bit of effort at the planning stages. This effort is often justified, because of the stress it allows you to avoid. But exactly what should you be thinking about when forming your plans?
Planning Your Route and Destinations
Getting the best from your trip, for the most part, means deciding exactly where you’ll be going, and at what time. Some activities and destinations will consume more of your time than others, and having at least a rough itinerary in place will help you to do all of the things you’d like to do. Ideally, this itinerary should be flexible. That way, you’ll be able to cope with delays, and go off on a spontaneous detour, should the fancy take you.
Vehicle Readiness and Essentials
Your preparations should ensure that your vehicle is fit for the job. This means performing several key checks. Tyres should be inflated to the appropriate level, and the tread should be well above the legal minimum. Your oil, screenwash, and coolant levels should all be checked, as should your lights and wipers. Remember that wiper blades are designed to be replaced every so often. If you want a clear view of the road ahead, it’s worth doing this before you actually set out.
In some cases, you might need an entirely new vehicle. Buying one outright is an option, as is leasing. There are a number of car finance options that might make this process much more affordable.
Understanding UK Driving Regulations and Road Etiquette
If you’re going to be driving on public roads in the UK, then it’s vital that you’re aware of the rules of the road. This means staying on the right side of the law, and on the right side of a few basic principles of etiquette. These rules can vary over time, and from country to country. What’s fine in Wales might be less so in England, and vice versa. Consequently, it’s often a good idea to leaf through the Highway Code before you head out.
Budgeting for Your Trip
Your trip will impose a number of costs. If you don’t have a system for managing these costs, it’s possible that you won’t be able to control them. It’s worth getting every potential expense down on paper, including fuel, accommodation, food and attractions. If you’re going to be moving through major cities, you might also incur additional clean air and congestion charges. When budgeting, it’s also worth setting aside a small amount of cash for emergency situations. After all, part of the charm of a road trip is that you never quite know what to expect.
Accommodation and Booking Ahead
Advance planning and booking is a great way to minimise your accommodation costs, and to guard against the risk of you missing out on your preferred lodgings. Think about the sort of accommodation you want. Self-catering lodges and campsites will tend to be cheaper than hotel rooms. If you’re visiting during peak tourist season, then the importance of advance booking becomes even more pressing.
