It’s not long until you’re packing your bags and saying “see ya later” to the east coast. If you’ve never taken a family road trip across the country, this guide will teach you everything you need to know about how to prepare for this epic journey.
Step One: The Type of Vehicle You’ll Be Using
What kind of vehicle are you driving? A small car will have trouble fitting all your belongings in it along with passengers. A big SUV may be able to fit everyone, but fuel costs might skyrocket over time because SUVs get poor kilometers per liter of fuel. So what do you do? Get a van! That way, there’s plenty of space for all your stuff while travelling cross-country, plus ample room inside for everyone to relax. You can also add a roof rack with a tent.
Step Two: The Route You’ll Be Taking
There are many different routes you can take when crossing the country. Do some research on Google Maps and find the route that best suits your needs. Make sure to take into account things like fuel prices, attractions, and rest stops. You don’t want to be driving for hours on end without any breaks!
Step Three: What to Bring With You
Now it’s time to start packing! Make a list of all the items you’ll need for your road trip and pack them accordingly. Some essentials include food, water, first-aid supplies, map(s), sunglasses, sunscreen, hats, and jackets (depending on the season). Don’t forget entertainment for the kids (and adults!) such as books, cards, tablets, and headphones.
Step Four: Prepare Your Vehicle
Before you set off on your journey, make sure to do a check of your vehicle. This includes checking the tires, oil level, brakes, and fluid levels. You don’t want to be stranded on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere! Also, be sure to pack an emergency kit containing things like flares, a flashlight, jumper cables, and a tool kit. Safety is critical so consider van deadlocks to protect your family and your belongings. There’s nothing worse than coming back from a hike or a city tour to find someone broke into your van and helped themselves to your valuables. Rather safe than sorry.
Step Five: Final Preparations
Now that you’re all packed and ready to go, there are a few final things you need to do before hitting the open road. Make sure everyone in your family knows their emergency contact information in case of an emergency, and create a budget for your trip. That way, you’ll know how much money you can spend on food, gas, and attractions without going over your limit.
Are You Excited Yet?
You should be! A cross country family road trip is a great way to experience everything nature has to offer. From the east coast to the west coast and all the beautiful sights in between, there’s something for everyone on this epic journey. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to take on the open road and explore the world! Have fun and be safe!
1 Comments