How much fun is a good road trip? Sometimes it’s a leap into the unknown, or down a path previously traveled, but always with a taste of adventure and a sense of freedom. The secret behind a successful and enjoyable road trip vacation, like what we might see on Instagram, is the planning - especially in Australia - to help you enjoy the journey with the only worry being which filter to use on your images. Here’s how to keep the world dreaming about your holiday on the road.
Pack the essentials
Whether you’re road tripping overseas, between countries or you choose to stay within home borders, there are a few essentials that you may need to consider packing in the boot. For a start, it’s a good idea to always have a form of personal identification on your and a credit card, kept nice and safe. A more enjoyable road trip usually means day time driving so pack sun cream and a pair of sunnies to protect your eyes. You never know when weather will hit or if you’ll get stuck without a convenience store nearby so pack something to keep you warm, dry, hydrated and fed. No road trip should be without car snacks! Check your tyres and brakes before you go and also carry a spare tyre - if you’re going to a remote region, plenty of water and a jerry can of petrol too - just in case… Naturally, to really make the social media world envious of your trip, take your camera with extra battery and SD cards for storage and sharing of your wonderful time on the road.
On the road
For some, being on the road can be a little stressful if it hasn’t been planned carefully. If you are visiting a new region, or a country, make sure you have an updated road map in addition to your GPS, as you need to be able find your way when there is no satellite reception. Also book your accommodations in advance, so that you don’t need to worry about where to spend the night each day and you can just focus on having a great time. Stay sane with music and a good road trip playlist from your device for when you go in and out of reception - the only thing more annoying than too many radio ads is the sound of static. Hiring your car? Ride in comfort and hire an SUV for extra legroom! Most of them are four-wheel drive too so you can go offroad or travel on gravel if you need to.
Great company
For the most fun, don’t go on your own. Solo road trips can be exhausting, lonely and not as safe as when you’re traveling with someone. Of course, go with someone you love spending time with. Nothing beats stopping the car at the top of a mountain to enjoy the view with someone who sees the same beauty in the world as you do - and taking a good selfie.