If you’re planning on leaving the city or state during your next family road trip, this article is probably of use to you. Read on for some valuable road trip advice that will make your family’s getaway an amazing adventure!
Step 1: Plan Ahead
Visiting a new or unfamiliar area can be both exciting and intimidating at the same time. To avoid feeling overwhelmed by the number of things to do (or miss), it is recommended to plan ahead. Search online for attractions in your vicinity; make lists by priority so that everyone has input into subsequent decisions; book activities or lodging well in advance to avoid disappointment. Don’t forget to keep some money aside just in case!
Step 2: Be Flexible
Once a plan is finalized, commit to it. However, be flexible! If there’s a last-minute change of heart or someone gets sick, adjust accordingly. No trip is ever ruined by being a little more relaxed about the schedule.
Step 3: Be Prepared
Make sure your car is insured and road-worthy. Bring emergency supplies, including spare tire(s), first aid kit(s), and gas cans if necessary. It also doesn’t hurt to have a GPS handy should you get lost along the way! Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to every activity you booked for – this will give everyone enough time should something unexpected come up (again). Finally, bring a printout of any directions needed instead of relying on cell phone data. Familiarity with the route will negate the need to stop every few miles for directions, which will keep everyone happy!
Step 4: Have Fun
This trip is meant to be a pleasant memory, so have fun! Whether you go out of state or out of town, there are plenty of things to do and see that won’t break the bank. Check online for various coupons and free activities that can be used as a family outing. Ask your relatives or friends if they have any recommendations on places to visit around where you’re going. Do some research into local customs and traditions – it never hurts to learn a little bit about another country’s culture. Speaking of countries…
Step 5: Go International!
Once in a while, it is a good idea to go international! There are ample opportunities available, especially since traveling abroad can be done without leaving the country. Sites like Airbnb and Homeaway offer cheap and comfortable accommodations in different countries around the world, which can make for an unforgettable experience. Unpack once and see multiple sights; increase your worldly knowledge; meet new people; make memories that will last a lifetime!
Step 6: Keep It Simple, Stupid
We all love technology, but when it comes to family vacations, sometimes simpler really is better. No need for taking selfies or posting pictures every 5 seconds on social media – take time to enjoy your surroundings instead of focusing on documenting everything with expensive gadgets. Remember what life was like before iPhones? Those were the days, my friend.
Step 7: Have Kids? Do It With A Twist
If you’re traveling with children who are old enough to enjoy some activities but too young to be left by themselves (at least for most of the time), incorporate them into the trip! Whether this means letting them help with planning or simply asking what they want to do on said trip, taking advantage of their knowledge is always a good idea. They can choose where to eat; they can tell you which attractions they like best; kids tend to know what restaurants serve food that is both affordable and delicious (no need for Yelp). Just make sure they’re properly looked after at all times, especially when crossing busy roads!
Step 8: Make ‘Em Work For It
All work and no play make Jack a dull boy. Give them chores! Make your kids responsible for at least one task during the day that doesn’t include demanding expensive toys or checking social media every five minutes. This will not only save you money but their “responsibilities” can be used as bargaining chips; “If you finish packing now, I’ll let you choose our destination.” Do you see? Everyone wins!
Step 9: Tackle The Temptations
You love your family, but there are some temptations out there that can be hard to resist – especially when on vacation. If it’s too good to be true, leave it alone because overindulgence leads to regrets (and pain).
In Case Of Emergency
Domestic: In case you have an accident, apply first aid right away. If you or any of your family members are not breathing, perform CPR. Only call 911 in case it is a dire emergency. Also, always keep contact details for car accident lawyers on hand.
International: In case of emergency during your trip, do not hesitate to inform the staff at the hotel where you are staying. They will have all the necessary contacts and resources available in order to ensure you get help when needed.
Keep a local number for the police, firefighters, and medical help. Know what hospitals are around you, and if there is an overseas consulate – these might come in handy at some point!
Step 10: Have A Safe Journey!
Last but not least, don’t forget to travel safely. Make sure everyone has their identification on them at all times and that any prescriptions are close by in case of emergencies. If someone is taking antihistamines or insulin, make sure they have extra supplies just in case something happens along the way. Pack plenty of water for everyone; snacks like nuts and fruit will also keep everyone’s energy levels high without filling them up too quickly. And remember, no matter what happens along the way, you’re still a family!
There You Have It!
You don’t need to spend a lot of money or go far away to have an unforgettable experience. When you follow these ten easy steps, you’ll be on your way to building memories that will last for years! And if anything goes wrong, remember that the best experiences are often found at times when plans go awry.
Your family deserves the most out of life, and this is exactly what traveling offers; why not make it even better? You can do it with just a little bit of effort – so long as everyone’s willing to try their best. After all, isn’t that what vacations are all about?
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