Driving off into the sunset sounds amazing. However, if you are planning a cross-country RV Trip, it involves setting aside time before the trip to organize the details and ensure everything is taken care of so that it runs as smoothly as possible. Here are some things to take into account before you leave:
Decide the path you will take.
Spend some time sitting down, doing some research, and thinking about what you really want to see when you go somewhere in person. After that, you can begin compiling a list of all the locations that are on your travel bucket list. Then, decide how long you would like to spend driving on this vacation before moving on to the next stage of planning.
Determine the length of time spent at each location.
With a basic notion of your overall travel duration, you can decide how long to stay at each stop.
If your cross-country trip includes national parks, you’ll want to stay at least a night in each park to see everything it offers. Add the number of nights at each stop to your driving time.
Book your campsites
If you’re sure you’ll follow your plan, book your campsites along the way. Camping reservations are especially vital if you’re traveling during peak season or to a popular location such as the Grand Canyon.
Pack your bags
You shouldn’t put this off. Cross-country travel demands planning and organization. However, what you pack for a cross-country travel depends on your route. Traveling by RV means that you will need clothes, food, and RV equipment.
You should pack as light as possible for cross-country travel.
Always double-check
Before your big journey, plan everything. In addition, make sure you check your route to make sure the roads are open and that you’re taking the best path between stops. Also, confirm your bookings.
Use GasBuddy.com
GasBuddy is great for any road trip, especially a cross-country one. This app provides gas prices in any area, helping you find the cheapest available gas.
Avoid tolls
Google Maps shows toll-free routes. We think it’s worth the time to save money. Tolls are costly. Besides, the alternative routes don’t stray too much, so you should still reach your destinations.
Pack a cooler
This road trip will get pricey if you eat out every meal. Therefore, pack a cooler so you can pack snacks. This might include sandwiches, protein bars, fruit, etc.
Get a Wi-Fi hotspot
If you are still working you need a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, using your phone’s hotspot isn’t always safe and can run up your bill.
Check your vehicle
Before a road trip, check your RVs operating parts. Cross-country road trips make this even more vital. Check all of your lights, including emergency flashers. Check the oil and fill the wiper fluid. In addition, you can fill the radiator and check the pressure in your tires. Furthermore, getting an alignment on your vehicle might be a good idea.
Create playlists
You’ll want decent music with all the time you’ll spend driving. Therefore, create some great playlists. Try making one playlist for energy and another for relaxation. Perhaps you want one for inspiration or humor. Just get creative.
Bring TP
You never know when you’ll need to use the restroom on a road trip, even if you’re camped somewhere with facilities. Therefore, always bring toilet paper and hand wipes.
Stretching
Driving is quite tiring. Therefore, it is good to stop regularly and stretch. This will boost your energy and blood circulation. In addition, you’ll benefit physically and mentally.
Expect things to go awry
It’s true that something will likely throw a wrench in one or more of your road trip plans. Weather, traffic, and other circumstances can put you off schedule or into other unforeseen difficulties. However, you can recognize and understand that this is normal. Therefore, be ready to go to plan B.
Stay Well-nourished
American road food is famous. We like having the best road munchies. However, a long car journey requires healthy food. Therefore, try to eat healthful meals while traveling. This will help you maintain your energy and health throughout your vacation.
Know when to stop
When everyone is fatigued, or the weather turns bad, it’s better to stop driving and enjoy a relaxing evening. You can always pick up where you left off the next day and have a clearer head.