With summer slowly but surely making its way out, fall isn\u2019t far behind. And there\u2019s no better way to add some aesthetic adventure to this sweet change of seasons than by planning a road trip. So buckle up and chase after the brilliant colors that cover the country this time of year! Here are some essential road trip tips to get you ready to hit the highways and byways.<\/p>\n
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Audio entertainment <\/strong>\u2013 Every road trip needs a solid soundtrack. And even with today\u2019s technology, some modern devices just don\u2019t cut it when cell phones lose service or radios only spit static. So go old-school: and make a mixed tape (ok, maybe a CD is more realistic); or find some audio books to pop in, should empty airwaves take up a bit too much space in the car.<\/p>\n Map<\/strong> \u2013 A road trip map is the cousin to the above CD suggestion. Because simply put, technology can fail. And probably will just when you need it most (go figure). So do yourself a huge<\/em> favor, and throw a paper map, travel atlas, or printed directions into your trunk or glove compartment. Just in case\u2026<\/p>\n Car chargers<\/strong> \u2013 There\u2019s probably no explanation needed for these gems. Just be sure they make it into the car with you. Keep those phones, GPS devices, and anything that helps you safely get where you intend to go powered up. Capisce?<\/em><\/p>\n Snacks<\/strong> \u2013 When it comes to road trip food ideas, stick to those items that are non-perishable. But if space allows, then by all means bring a cooler if you wish to work some fresh foods into the mix over the miles.<\/p>\n Roadside kit<\/strong> \u2013 The cardinal rule for planning a road trip may very well be the ol\u2019 saying: \u201cexpect the unexpected.\u201d So whether it\u2019s a blown tire, a personal emergency, or just somehow running out of gas \u2014 you\u2019ll be eternally grateful you packed one of these puppies. And at the very least, carry a AAA card or other form of roadside assistance contact info.<\/p>\n Shoebox \u2018shop\u2019<\/strong> \u2013 Traversing many a mile often means that the convenience of a store is not always available. So pack some travel-size road trip essentials that will help you feel your best \u2014 pain killers, tissues, sunscreen, bug repellant, body spray, motion sickness meds, feminine products, TP, baby wipes, dry shampoo, Listerine strips, first aid basics\u2026. You get the idea.<\/p>\n Blanket and pillow<\/strong> \u2013 You snooze, you\u2026win!<\/em> Without a doubt, the more rested you are, the more you will enjoy your road trip. You can never be too prepared to pull over for a power-nap. And even if you have overnight accommodations booked, sometimes the tiniest comforts of home can make the biggest difference in a night of quality ZZZs.<\/p>\n Extra key(s)<\/strong> \u2013 Even the most efficient planning of a road trip can go awry if the engine\u2019s lifeline gets lost! So avoid any bumps in the road, so to speak, by cleverly keeping a spare key in an accessible location \u2014 on the car itself, in a purse that never leaves your side, with your co-pilot, etc.<\/p>\n Fabric freshener <\/strong>\u2013 A lot can happen in-between road trip attractions and miles of asphalt. A lot<\/em>. Not all memories may be those you want to hold on to. So let them go with a lil\u2019 spritzing here and there. Especially if you and your car plan to spend a substantial amount of time together.<\/p>\n Proof of auto insurance<\/strong> \u2013 Even the best road trip planner can leave home without this little detail that may have big repercussions. So double- and triple-check that it\u2019s tucked away in your glove compartment! And here\u2019s hoping that\u2019s where it stays for the duration of your excursion.<\/p>\n Spare change<\/strong> \u2013 Plain and simple, toll roads can creep up on ya! And avoiding them can sometimes make for an awfully long detour. So put that pocket weight to better use, and prep to pay the way for your wheels.<\/p>\n Gas can<\/strong> \u2013 This may or may not fly, depending on both the space available in the car and your sensitivity to certain, shall we say, \u2018aromas.\u2019 But if your olfactory powers can muster the strength to tolerate such a distinct scent, this road trip essential is a smart move, should your gas gauge pull a less intelligent one.<\/p>\n Your favorite person\/people! <\/strong>Planning a road trip is so much more fun with two. Or more, to make it all the merrier!<\/p>\n Sleep is a powerful resource.<\/strong> And it\u2019s a safety advocate. There\u2019s no need to be a hero, fighting heavy eyelids; and there\u2019s no reason to hype yourself up on caffeine aids. Just rest \u2014 it\u2019s what\u2019s genuinely best for you.<\/p>\n Keep within the speed limit!<\/strong> You know why. The only tickets you should acquire while on the road are those for legit road trip attractions, not those pertaining to the law.<\/p>\n Service your vehicle beforehand.<\/strong> It may sounds silly or obvious, but this can often get overlooked among the excited anticipation of packing and hitting the road! Make sure your oil changes, tire rotations, tire pressure, alignment, filters, lights, belts, and other typical points of service inspection are up to par.<\/p>\n Anticipate time in the great outdoors.<\/strong> If planning a road trip also involves planning some off<\/em>-road excursions (hiking, camping, etc.), be sure to stop by a specialty store before you start your trip to get properly equipped. You never know when essentials like bear spray, a water filter, compass, headlamp, lighter, tarp, etc. will come in handy off the beaten path!<\/p>\n Let someone in on your plan.<\/strong> Although it may be subject to change, it\u2019s wise to inform friends and\/or family members of your tentative whereabouts and timeline. Again going back to defying today\u2019s technology \u2014 if your road trip takes you into the ultimate static zone, essentially unreachable, it never hurts for others to have some idea of your location, thanks to any number of possible scenarios.<\/strong><\/p>\n Need more options or don\u2019t see your favorite destination on here?<\/strong> Check out SmokyMountains.com\u2019s annual Fall Foliage Prediction Map<\/a> <\/em><\/strong>\u2014 the perfect tool for road trip planners and autumn enthusiasts who are deciding when and where to wander to catch trees\u2019 full spectrum of splendor.
\nAs the life rule of thumb goes, it\u2019s always best to be as prepared as possible. This handy road trip checklist will hopefully help you be just that!<\/strong>
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\nIt\u2019s easy to escape reality and get delightfully lost in the bliss of the open road. But some things should always stay at the tip-top of your road trip checklist, for the sake of safety. So here are a few friendly reminders\u2026<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n
\nThe most exciting part of planning a road trip is mapping out where to go and what to see. As Mother Nature gears up to debut her annual kaleidoscope of autumn color, consider heading to one of these hot spots, famous for their fall foliage.\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n
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