Keeping Time On Your First Ever Road Trip
Your first ever road trip is an exciting prospect! You’re about to head off with nothing but your car to keep you on track, covering hundreds and even thousands of kilometers across a country you’ve always wanted to take a look around. It sure does sound exciting on paper, doesn’t it?
But in practice, as a first timer, it can be quite hard to complete a road trip, especially on time. You might have to cut a few stops out here and there, and you’re going to have to keep an eye on your car, to make sure it still has the same durability as you. All in all, it can actually end up being quite a stressful moment in your life!
Here are a few ideas on how to make the best out of your epic road adventure.
Research Your Itinerary
If you’re setting off on your first ever road trip, you’ve probably taken a package deal from a trip provider. And they’ve probably given you an itinerary to follow – make sure you research this before you head off on the trip itself. Make sure you know what you’re looking for, all the important landmarks to take cognizance and the road signs you’re meant to follow.
If you can anticipate the sights and signs, you’re going to keep track better than you ever thought possible. And if you end up in the wrong place, you’ll definitely know about it! You’ll be able to turn the car around and go back to where you’re supposed to be, or take the time to get a little bit lost, simply because you’re confident about where you are.
Read Also: 10 Scenic Driving Experiences In Malaysia
Check What’s Happening on the Roads Ahead
Of course, you’re going to need to keep up to date with what’s happening on the roads. Even if you don’t understand the language of the country you’re in, you can always check an online source (that can be automatically translated) for road closures. Or, if you’re lucky, the car will have an on-board SatNav, which will keep you up to date on the local area as you go.
Google Maps and Waze are your two best friends on the road and they are really helpful when anticipating unannounced road closures due to construction or a major accident. There are countless times where I managed to save time and energy by taking an alternative route after being alerted about road blocks ahead!
Make Sure the Vehicle is Up to Scratch!
This is quite possibly the most important step for the road ahead. If the vehicle you’re in needs to be pulled over every now and then, to check for tire punctures or that the radiator is working properly, you’re not going to make any time at all on your road trip. And this is your first one! If you’re comparing every other road trip after it to this one, you’ll want to set a good example!
Get your car serviced before you go – always make sure your radiator, battery and tires are in good condition before embarking into the great beyond. If you’re renting one, make sure you thoroughly check the agreement and insurance policy before you sign. And if you’re a bit of a tinkerer, make sure you’ve packed a mechanic’s kit in the back of the car.
Read Also: Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan – A Drive To The Other Minang Hinterland
Got a road trip to go on? Is it your first one? Do share your plans and any other tips I might have missed out on making it a good one.