Common Mistakes to Avoid for Frequent Roadtrippers

Mistakes are a part of life and it is almost impossible to avoid them altogether especially if you are the type of person that enjoys going on an adventure and traveling around the world. It can happen to anyone but it is less likely to happen if you allow yourself to learn from the experience of others. Knowing the most common mistakes road trippers make will allow you to avoid them when you plan your own trip. Here are the 5 most common mistakes that many road trippers make regardless of their traveling experience.

Mistake 1: Not properly planning the road trip route

The first and most common mistake that people make when going on a road trip is forgetting to consider time zone changes, crossing state lines and checking rules and regulations along your picked route. Planning the route is not just looking at the online map on your phone and adding stops. You also need to see if you are entering areas that have different rules to make sure you stay within the confines of the law in that specific state. 

Mistake 2: Prepping the travel vehicle for the trip

Whether you’re traveling via car or travel trailer RV, your mode of transportation may either be your best friend or your worst adversary on a lengthy road trip. Schedule a complete tune-up a week or two before your trip to make sure your car doesn’t let you down. Having a professional check your oil and tire pressure, as well as your battery, brakes, and engine, will save you from getting stuck on the side of the road.
It’s also essential to make sure you have all the needed travel trailer accessories with you such as trailer jacks. You need a trailer jack that is durable, reliable and long lasting so you can rest assured that you are as prepared as possible for your trip. Aside from a jack you may want to add some other durable essential gadgets on your travel trailer checklist to make sure you are ready for any situation and Blackout-products is the right place to shop for those. 

Mistake 3: Not downloading navigation or entertainment apps

You'll need to download everything over Wi-Fi before you depart if you want to avoid data charges at the conclusion of your vacation. You should download your maps ahead of time so that you can navigate even if your cell phone data is switched off because some roads are so remote that you may lose connection for a bit and miss your exit or turn. Other entertainment apps, such as Spotify playlists or Netflix series, could be downloaded ahead of time to keep young car travelers entertained. Make sure you download applications like Netflix and fill them with movies and series so you have plenty of entertainment available while traveling.
Even though online maps are very convenient and usually right, there are instances where your online map will leave you stranded. So make sure you have some spare maps in your car and you follow road signs as well.

Mistake 4: Not planning sufficiently

One of the most enjoyable aspects of travelling on the road is the ability to stop, explore, and reroute at any time. You may always deviate from your original plan, but it's a good idea to conduct some research about the route you are going to take beforehand so you can get the most out of your trip. Road trips of this sort are all about the journey – time and economic restrictions may influence the itinerary, but diversions and unexpected stops are frequently the highlights of a trip. So make sure you plan out your route considering all the interesting and exciting entertainment venues and restaurants along the way so you can have a good idea on where to stop, rest and eat. 
Another thing that you should keep in mind is not to plan your entire trip based on online roads. Although they are incredibly convenient and usually correct, your internet map may leave you stuck on occasion. So make sure you have some extra maps you pay attention to traffic signs.

Mistake 5: Not bringing the right essentials

Packing your family car with all of the things you are going to need  before you get to your final destination is a fantastic way to get started on the right foot. Whether you're going on a long road trip or just taking a day drive over the state line, you'll need a trustworthy vehicle which has all the right tools and spare parts. To begin, make sure you have an emergency kit containing jumper cables, electrical chargers, flares, a flat tire repair kit, an insulated blanket, a first-aid kit, and other necessary supplies.
Next, double-check that you have a spare key. You'll also need some general cleaning supplies like wet wipes and paper towels, as well as a hand sanitizer. You could also bring snacks for the drive, such as chips, dried fruit, and granola bars, as well as a small cooler or cooler bag to keep liquids cool and accessible. Creating a camping essentials checklist that you can follow is the best strategy to follow in this instance. 
One of the best ways to learn and avoid mistakes is through the experience of others. In our experience these are the most common mistakes that road trippers make when they are travelling. Having the right travel trailer tips before you start your journey can be a huge difference maker and help you have the greatest time out on the open road. Being ready for different scenarios that might happen, having the right maps and entertainment apps at the ready as well as bringing the right essentials with you will definitely enhance the entire experience for you and your entire family.