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Taking a road trip without a map is like scuba diving without your air tank – it’s just no good. Make sure you mark out your route, exits and ideal rest stops before you head out for the day. Also, take note of any interesting sites and take the time to explore. Half the fun of a road trip is seeing the sites along the way.

Take your car in for a tune up before you head out. Ask them to ensure your fluids are topped and that the air pressure in your tires is at its best for highway driving. Should you need to get something fixed, it is best to do it at a place you can trust. Plus, it can be more expensive when it is a have-to situation. Also, make sure you have a roadside safety kit just in case something does happen.

One option you might want to consider is renting a mobile home. The added room allows you more flexibility when traveling – more room for suitcases, people can stretch their legs and you don’t have to stop for those bathroom breaks. Sometimes a larger car can do the trick as well. Having extra room is a huge plus… especially when you’re traveling those long distances.

Part of the fun when traveling on the road is stopping wherever your heart desires. However, there is nothing worse than not being able to stop because there is no room at the inn. Conventions, busy seasons and hotel renovations are only a few of the reasons why your hotel might be booked up. Try to plan ahead.

You never know what unique sites are awaiting you so take the time to explore. True, your final destination is where you want to end up but the sites along the way can make your trek just that much more enjoyable. Just think of all the stories you can share when you return home.

One of the dangers you face on a road trip is getting distracted. Perhaps the kids are too loud, the music is blaring or the fascinating scenery is distracting you. Whatever the reason may be it is important that the driver has final say as to what goes. Does this mean that the rest of you sit like stone structures? Of course not but safety always has to come first.

Traveling with everything in the car can become a playground for a lurking thief. However, if you are proactive they should just walk right by your car. First, always park where there is good light and foot traffic. Second, hide your valuables if you have to leave them in the car. Third, make sure your windows are up and the doors are locked whenever you leave. You can also purchase items like the Club if you’d like that extra insurance.

If your road trip includes an overnight stay pack a smaller bag. That way you aren’t lugging your huge suitcases in for one night. You also won’t have to repack the car the next morning.

Feeling unprepared is a horrible experience. Make sure you check the road and weather conditions before you leave for the day. Is it going to snow or rain? Any traffic jams you might be able to avoid? Knowing what to expect can help you choose your highways and freeways as well as help you decide how long you are going to be in the car.

Sometimes those last few hours can seem like a lifetime away. It can get tempting to put the pedal down just a little further but be careful. Speeding doesn’t promise you anything but the chance to get a ticket and more importantly, it decreases your time to react if the need should arise. If you are the driver, you are responsible for your passengers. If you are a passenger, encourage the driver to follow the rules.