Road trips are a popular American past-time. Why? There is so much to see in America! While some people prefer a more traditional vacation on the beach, many enjoy the open road and one-of-a-kind sights that come along with it.

There is one catch to taking a road trip - the road of course! You must hope for the best, but expect the worst. You’re going to be in the middle of the elements, surrounded by other drivers, unfamiliar areas, etc.

Some of the most memorable vacations are those on the road. Be sure to keep these tips in mind before you take off on your next adventure:

1. Perform Regular Maintenance Before Your Trip

A road trip can put a lot of pressure on your vehicle. Make sure you have a fresh oil change, consider getting a tune-up and double-check your tire pressure to ensure your vehicle is equipped for the long journey ahead.

If you know your vehicle has an underlying issue, it is not recommended to take it very long distances. In that case, consider renting a vehicle.

2. Take Breaks

When driving long distances, you’re more likely to run into nighttime driving and drowsiness. Driving drowsy is driving distracted. If you start to feel yourself getting tired, your best bet is to pull over and take a few minutes of shut eye. If not, try rolling down your windows for some fresh air, turning up the music, or even talking to yourself about your surroundings, just to stay focused.

3. Check the Weather

In the days leading up to your trip, be sure to check the weather forecast for your destination and route. Inclement weather is not only dangerous to drive through, it could cause some serious damage while you’re away.  

You don’t want to return home to find a tree has fallen through your roof, or that your basement is flooded. If the weather looks alright, ask a neighbor to help keep an eye on your home just in case something stirs up out of the blue. Be sure to leave them with a reliable contact number.

4. Renting a Car? Make Sure It’s Covered

If you opt to rent a car for your road trip, we recommend contacting your local insurance agent to learn more about rental car coverages. The majority of rental companies will offer you insurance for your vehicle, but you might not need to purchase it.

Your independent insurance agent can check your current auto policy and talk about coverages you may want to add through your insurance carrier if traveling with a rental car. Oftentimes this is more affordable than purchasing a separate policy through the rental company.

5. Check Your Auto Insurance Policy