Traveling alone is both nerve racking and exhilarating. If one thing’s for sure, it’s important to plan ahead and be prepared for any potential difficulties you may face. Our team here at Certified Autoplex is going to share some tips and suggestions on how to survive, and enjoy, a solo road trip.
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One of the first things you need is a love for long-distance driving. Not all of us are cut out for this task, but if you don’t mind it, then you’re in the clear. It can be not only mentally draining, but also physically taxing to spend hours behind the wheel. However, when you’re the only one in the car – there are definitely some perks. Go ahead and play the same song over and over, switch up your plans and make as many stops as you’d like because you’re the only one in charge.
Top 3 Tips for a Road Trip by Yourself
Use More Than One Navigation Tool
When you’re traveling alone in a car, it can be difficult to keep track of where you are and where you’re headed next because you don’t have someone in the passenger seat giving you step-by-step directions. This is why it’s important to have more than one way of keeping track of your current location as well as your final destination. If your vehicle has an integrated navigational system, then you’re already one step ahead. If not, most smartphones have GPS applications available. Another good idea is to keep a map on hand as well as a compass just to be safe.
Follow Your Vehicle’s Regularly Scheduled Maintenance Plan
Driving alone may not be that difficult, but when your car breaks down on the side of the road in the middle of the night – that’s definitely a problem. One way to avoid unexpected breakdowns is by following your vehicle’s regularly scheduled maintenance plan. Keep in mind the amount of miles you’re traveling speeds up the time in between services such as oil changes and tire rotations. We suggest getting a simple multi-point inspection about a week before you head out so you can take care of any major issues before you plan to head out. More simple maintenance can happen on the road.
Keep In Touch With Family and Friends
Even though you’re alone on this road trip, you don’t have to leave everyone else clueless of your plan. Nowadays it is so easy to stay connected, which gives you no excuse not to keep friends and family filled in on your most recent location and upcoming destination. Although they won’t be right there to help you if any issues arise, they’ll still be able to pinpoint your most recent location if something unthinkable were to occur. Staying in touch with friends and family can give you a peace-of-mind knowing that there are others out there thinking about you and your safety while you’re on the road.
By following these three major tips, we’re sure you’ll stay safe and have an excellent time on your next solo road trip. If you have any suggestions of your own, please feel free to leave them in the comments section below. Those interested in learning more are encouraged to contact our team here at Certified Autoplex for more information.