5 Tips for a Successful Road Trip

With the lowest summer gas prices in 12 years, many American families are planning to hit the road this summer. Fifty-five percent of Americans are planning to take a road trip this year due to cheaper gas prices, according to a AAA study. At 69 percent, the road trip is the most popular vacation for families planning to travel in the next year, followed by national parks (49 percent) and theme parks (42 percent).

Road trips are popular because they promote family bonding and allow travelers to see sites they probably would not have otherwise seen.  If you're planning a road trip this year, follow these tips from Autoland in Springfield, NJ. 

Have a Plan

When it comes to road trips, you can't just get in the car and head towards your destination. Road trips require careful planning and preparation to ensure you don't miss out on must-see sites or exceed your budget. For a successful trip, you should plan your route ahead of time. Your plan should include when and where you'll stop for food, gas, attractions, and lodging. Also be aware that your trip may not go as planned. Unexpected delays, like road work or bad weather, might set you off schedule and require you to adjust your route. Expect a few minor bumps in the road when budgeting and timing your trip. 

Make Frequent Stops 

Driving for several hours on end can make you feel groggy and less alert. Even if you don’t feel tired, pull over and take a break every few hours. Stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and grab a bite to eat. If you need to, switch drivers or take a nap before hitting the road again. Also, while it may be tempting to drive through the night, it's best to get a good night's sleep to ensure you are awake and alert for the long drive ahead.

Keep Your Gas Tank Half Full 

Don't wait until your gas gauge is on empty before you refuel. Letting your gas tank sit on empty is never good for your car, but it's an especially bad choice for long-distance travel. When you're on the open road, the next gas station may not be for another 100 miles, so you should fill up when you can. Always keep your gas tank at least half full to be safe. 

Avoid Breakdowns 

Before you hit the road, ensure your car is in the best possible condition. Make sure the tires are properly inflated, all fluids, including power-steering, windshield wiper, and engine oil, are at the right levels, and the headlights, taillights and signals are working properly. Also have your vehicle professionally inspected to be sure everything is in tip-top shape. Let your mechanic know you are going on a road trip, so he/she can do a thorough inspection of your tires, brakes, battery, and so on. Many New Jersey new and used car dealers offer vehicle service and repairs. At Autoland Springfield, we have highly-trained service staff and technicians, so stop by our dealership on Route 22 to have your vehicle inspected.  

Consider Entertainment 

After spending several hours in the car around the same scenery, your family could start to get bored. Especially if you have children, come prepared with entertainment. Think of fun road trip games, such as road trip bingo and the license plate game, to keep everyone excited and entertained. Also download games, music, and movies on your smartphone or tablet ahead of time, and bring your children's favorite handheld games and toys.  

With these tips, you and your family can have a successful road trip that will be remembered and cherished forever. Happy travels!