Are you looking for useful long-distance driving tips?
Sit tight and buckle up, for you’re in for a treat! We all know that long-distance trips can at times be exhaustive and stressful.
You start off in a positive mood, ready to explore the world on the roads, only to start feeling uncomfortable with every hour that passes. Then, fatigue kicks in, sleep mode gets activated, and before you know it, you’re on your fifth coffee trying to refuel your body for the trip.
But it’s not all doom and groom.
With the right preparations and mindset, you can make your long-distance trip safer, more fun, and enjoyable. Here are the five golden long-distance driving tips that will give you an unforgettable experience on the roads while ensuring your safety.
1. Plan Ahead
The success of any long-distance road trip depends on the prior preparations.
So, make concerted efforts to plan everything in advance. Plan your routes and the roads you’re going to take using maps or GPS. Also, make sure to plan where you’re going to stop for food, refueling, or even general stops to rest.
For added safety, keep in touch with someone at your destination throughout the journey. Doing so ensures someone knows where you are at any time should anything go wrong.
2. Get Enough Sleep
The last thing you want is to get drowsy while driving.
So, get plenty of sleep before you drive. Long-distance drivers should get at least 7 hours of sleep for two consecutive nights before the day of the trip.
Also, make sure to take regular breaks along the journey to keep your juices flowing. We suggest you take a break every two to three hours to hydrate, grab a bite, and stretch your legs. Doing so can help you stay awake, alert, and focused.
3. Don’t Tailgate
Tailgating is one of the behaviors that constitute reckless driving—and a conviction for reckless driving is punishable by 5 to 90 days in jail.
To be on the safer side, keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you. Tailgating or “following too close” increases the risk of getting into a rear accident. In which case, be sure to contact a Car Accident Attorney in the event of an accident. In addition, there is also the risk of stones flying up and damaging your windscreen if you’re too close.
To maintain a safe following distance, it’s advisable to follow the two-second rule. That is, when a vehicle ahead of you passes a landmark, you should pass the same landmark no earlier than two seconds after them.
4. Check the Car
Another important tip for long road driving is to ensure the vehicle is fit for the trip. Nothing can be more frustrating than your car breaking down when you’re 500 miles away from home. So, check your car for any mechanical flaws a day before the trip.
At the very least, stop at the service station, and let it be checked to ensure:
- Tire pressure is optimal
- The brakes are responsive
- The tires are in good condition
- The lights are working
- There are no leaks
Alternatively, you could have a mechanic come to your home and inspect the vehicle to make sure it can drive long distances without developing mechanical problems.
5. Pack Enough Supplies
Don’t run out of gas for your vehicle or belly! Instead, keep everyone fueled and energized for the entire trip by stocking up enough supplies.
Pack enough drinks, snacks, and food for everyone on board. You’ll also want to pack a full gas can on the trunk. You never know; it might come in handy, especially if you’re traveling to a remote location with no gas stations.
To Sum it Up
Long-distance trips are a great way to escape the monotony of your daily life.
But they can also subject you and your loved ones to great dangers if you’re not well prepared for the ride. By following these trips, you’ll be able to prevent most of the long road trip surprises and enjoy your trip.
