How To Prepare for a 6-Month Long Road Trip

a laptop and a wallet on a table

As the global pandemic drags on, more people than ever are hitting the roads in self-contained vehicles like RVs, camper vans, converted vans, and towing fifth-wheels. Determined to have the perfect road trip and often able to work from the road due to remote jobs, this group of adventure seekers is making the most of unconventional circumstances. If you’ve been going stir-crazy and are considering a road trip yourself, there are some things you’ll want to think about before hitting the open road. For a list of things you’ll want to do ahead of a six-month or even longer road trip, read on.

Make sure you’re properly covered.

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If you’re planning on an extended adventure, one of the best things you can do is check with your insurance provider about your comprehensive coverage. While you may have a good driving record and believe you have a great car insurance company and collision coverage, spending a lot of time on the road means your needs may change. In fact, it’s a good idea to check with other companies for lower rates than your current car insurance rate while you’re there.

Start with a Google search for “how to find the best car insurance rates” and ask insurance providers about types of coverage, coverage limits, and any discounts they offer. If you’ll be traveling in an RV, you’ll want to be sure you know each company’s roadside assistance policies, the amount of coverage they can offer, accident forgiveness, best deals, and more. Any insurance agent will be happy to provide a free quote. By being open-minded and willing to make changes before you hit the road, you’ll be able to travel with peace of mind.

Pack with purpose.

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If you’re someone who hopes to be roadtripping with style, it’s smart to set aside time to pack well. While the easy way is to throw as much as you can into a bag or suitcase, focused packing is something you’ll be glad you did later on. Consider packing clothing that can be worn in layers to minimize what you have to bring. Stick to the same hues and color schemes to save on space.

When packing for your big trip, be sure to pack for climate changes. Depending on where you are, there could be drastic weather changes along the way.

Bring cameras.

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If you’re like most people, you’ll want to be able to look back on your adventure. Be sure to pack more than one camera in your luggage. While it’s great to rely on a cellphone camera, if you’re someone who wants higher quality pictures, designated travel cameras are a good idea. For digital nomads or those who intend to blog or vlog their adventures, be sure to pack a memory stick capable of juggling images, too.

Consider your basic needs ahead of time.

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Eating out every day can be expensive. Sleeping in hotels can be pricey, too. Pack for the things you’ll need to survive. Instead of relying on city accommodations, think about packing solar showers, portable refrigerators, and camping stoves. You’ll save bundles on the road.

Even with pandemic restrictions, now is a great time for a long road trip. If you’ve done what you can to be sure you and your personal items are covered, pre-selected the perfect destinations, have a mind toward adventure, and are ready to hit the road, the only thing left to do is enjoy yourself. Whether you’ll be traveling in an older car or brand-new RV, a positive attitude and sense of adventure are the most important things you’ll want with you on the road. Happy adventuring to you. Have a safe and long journey.