Tips to Prepare for a Long Road Trip

Road trips are always a ton of fun. While most people go with family or friends, nothing's stopping you from setting off on your own. This could be a terrific opportunity to discover new parts of the country and also get to know yourself better.

But before you hit the road in search of your next adventure, we have some tips for you. Don't skip them, because they could make or break your solo road trip!

7 Tips for a Successful Solo Road Trip

Be sure to check off all these boxes before setting off.

1. Prepare Your Vehicle Before Leaving

It's simple: if you don't take care of your vehicleTrending Tips Keeping Your Automobile Tip Top Shape Driversed.com, you won't have fun on your road trip. Before setting off, take your car to the mechanic for a last-minute check-up. Maybe you need to buy a spare tire in case you get a flatTrending Got Flat Tire Heres How Handle It When Driving Driversed.com. Or maybe your coolant is getting old and won't take summer driving too well. It can cost you money, but not as much as being stuck on a highway and having to call maintenance.

2. Planning Ahead Is Your Best Friend

Map out your route according to weather forecastsWeather.com. For example, if you're driving in the winter, beware of road closures and blizzards in northern states. Between August and October, it's a good idea to look at hurricane forecasts.

You don't have to map every single stop on the way. But having an idea of places to visit and nearby accommodation is the best way to prepare for a long road tripTrending Tips Prepare Long Road Trip Driversed.com.

3. Taking Breaks Is Non-Negotiable

You shouldn't drive for hours and hours with no breaks. You're bound to get tired and pay less attention to your driving, especially when you're traveling alone. Drowsy driving is dangerous. To combat it, take a quick break every few hours. Eat or drink something, stretch your legs, and check in with yourself: do you feel drowsyTrending Drowsy Driving Dont Be A Victim Driversed.com or alert?

4. Keep Healthy Snacks in the Car

You might not always find a gas station or rest stop to grab something to eat on the road. Keeping healthy snacks (and drinks) in the car will help you not get desperately hungry. But remember, eating and drivingTrending Eating And Driving Driversed.com can be dangerous!

5. Bring Along Entertainment

You'll likely get bored while driving at some point. Having a playlist ready to go can help keep you awake and focused on the road. You could also check out an audiobook from your local library to stay entertained.

6. Pack an Emergency Kit

Packing lightly Trending What Bring You When Going Long Road Trip Driversed.comis key for road trips, but make sure you pack a roadside emergency kit. You should have one in your vehicle at all times, but it's especially important if you're on your own. A blanket and non-perishable food items, a jack, and a list of roadside assistance phone numbers are just some of the essentials to pack.

7. Share Your Location with Loved Ones

You don't want to check your phone while driving, but you should tell your loved ones where you're headed next at each stop. This way, if something bad happens, they'll be able to get help. Don't always rely on steady phone service: some of the most beautiful scenic routes have very spotty coverageMobileMaps Mobile Map BroadbandData.

Whip Your Skills to Shape with Defensive Driving

You're bound to come across unexpected situations while on a road trip. Be it aggressive drivers, a flat tire, or adverse weather events, you need to be prepared for everything. A defensive driving courseTraffic School Driversed.com can help. You'll learn what it takes to be a stellar driver, and that includes avoiding dangerous situations before they even occur. Just a few hours of learning will get you to your destination safely.