Hitting the open road for a family road trip is a great American tradition. But, if you want to do it with minimal stress, homework is required. Our list of expert car-trip tips greases the gears.
Plan Ahead
A little road trip planning goes a long way, starting with basic car prep. At a bare minimum, check tire pressure - opens in new window or tab. and tread, along with the essential fluids. If the brakes need to be serviced or the check engine light - opens in new window or tab. is illuminated, fix those issues before you hit the road. Don’t overlook the spare tire - opens in new window or tab..
Route Planning
We follow this rule: Interstates when you need them and scenic routes when you don’t. It’s all about the trip. If you need to make time, stick with the most direct routes. When there’s time to spare and the vistas beckon, hop on two-lane highways. If your vehicle’s infotainment system lacks CarPlay or Android support, a top-rated head unit - opens in new window or tab. is a fabulous tech update.
Satellite navigation - opens in new window or tab. is awesome, but there’s still a place for old-school paper maps - opens in new window or tab.. It’s all about that trip down memory lane. Paper maps are great for route planning on the kitchen table and can serve as a memento when framed with photos and postcards - opens in new window or tab. from the trip.
Pack Appropriately
Maximizing the space in your road trip chariot can take time and effort. Applying the “bring half as many clothes and twice as much money” principle is an excellent place to start. Include a foldable duffle bag - opens in new window or tab. to carry the stuff you’ll inevitably accumulate along the way. A rooftop cargo carrier - opens in new window or tab. provides extra cargo space, although it lowers highway gas mileage.
Pick the Right Chariot
Think back to what it was like when you were a kid, wedged in the middle of the back seat, sitting between siblings. Needless to say, a little extra room can prevent an elbow in the ribs. If your vehicle isn’t spacious enough to accommodate the crew, you might need to rent something larger. Minivans are rolling living rooms out on the open road. But if you need even more space, consider an RV.
Safety on the Open Road
Safe voyages start with a basic first-aid kit that includes adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, and a tube of Bacitracin ointment to tend to scrapes and cuts. Simple tire issues can be addressed with a tire repair kit, and a tire inflator. A set of reflective safety triangles and a rechargeable flashlight are reassuring to have onboard for nighttime travel. A compact jumpstart box is always handy to have if your vehicle’s battery is drained.
Entertainment
No internet? No Problem—if the family’s digital devices are loaded with movies and ebooks. Be sure to pack headphones (or earbuds) to keep the peace, along with a 12-volt charger or two and some spare USB and Lightning cables for the iPhones and Android devices. Charge packs are handy when you’re away from a plug for hours on end.
Punchbuggy is fun and free until someone gets a broken nose. It's nice to have a few non-pugilistic alternatives at the ready. While today’s smartphone games are all the rage, there’s something to be said for vintage Nintendo Game Boys - opens in new window or tab.. Old school will always be cool. Ready to ditch the digital? When you break out the Mad Libs - opens in new window or tab. books, hilarity is bound to ensue.
Nap Time!
The right squishy travel pillow - opens in new window or tab. and fuzzy blanket help kids of all ages catch a few winks while you make time on the highway. To avoid sibling battles, make sure the pillows and blankets are allocated accordingly. If you’re traveling in colder climates, a battery-powered heated hoodie - opens in new window or tab. is a great addition to your road-trip kit.
Meals to Remember
Fast food seldom creates lasting memories. Take the time to research lunch spots before you hit the road. Automotive-themed restaurants can be fantastic. Here’s a quick list of favorites:
- Vinsetta Garage - opens in new window or tab. - Berkley, MI
- Garage Bar - opens in new window or tab. - Louisville, KY
- Billy Blanco's - opens in new window or tab. - Park City, UT
What about the time in between meals? Snacks and drinks go a long way to keeping everyone happy. But pouring a bucket of sugar on a rolling cage of wolverines should be avoided at all costs. An appropriately sized car cooler - opens in new window or tab. keeps the beverages and perishables cold. If you need a java kick, consider an in-car coffee maker - opens in new window or tab..
Are We There Yet?
Picking the right lodging is hugely important. Gain consensus on hotels, motels, Airbnbs, or campgrounds and make reservations well in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises while en route. You can’t put a price tag on a good night’s sleep.
Collect Trinkets Along the Way
The best road trips start before you gas up and go. While the journey may be over before you know it, memories last a lifetime.
If you don't come home with a glovebox full of tourist trinkets from your family trip, your job isn't done. Whether it's post cards, bumper stickers, t-shirts or coffee mugs, you needn't spend much. It's all about the treasure hunt and some of the best shwag is free. Can't find it while you're on the road? eBay is your go to when you get back home.
About the author
Share your feedback
This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.