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Your Guide to Planning a Road Trip

Are you ready to feel the wind in your hair and embark on a journey like never before?

Whether you’re a frequent traveller or this is the first time you’re stepping foot outside of the UK, road trips require a lot of planning. But that’s why we’re here!

Our guide has broken up each step to help you plan your trip with ease. So sit back, relax, and let’s get started on planning your adventure.

1. Choose the Right Vehicle

Whether you’re travelling alone or with a group of people, the vehicle can greatly impact the experience of your trip.

Campervans are ideal for smaller groups of people. These are easier to navigate through winding streets and park up at each destination.

For larger groups of people or an extended trip, motorhomes are ideal. Our luxury motorhomes to hire range from 2-berth to 6-berth options and are equipped with kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas for a comfortable journey.

2. Plan Your Route

Planning your route beforehand is key to ensuring a stress-free journey.

Not only does this prevent you from venturing down the wrong road, but it also gives you time to research and plan out any attractions you want to see to make the most of your journey.

Start by making a list of the cities and towns you want to see and noting down each must-see landmark or hidden gem. Use navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze to help you identify the quickest routes, avoid traffic, and find alternate paths.

Include some buffer time in your schedule for unexpected delays, detours, or spontaneous adventures.

3. Book Accommodations Early

Plan your stops and overnight accommodations ahead of time to avoid disappointment and exhaustion.

Leaving it until the last minute opens up the opportunity for full bookings and being stranded on the road. If you’re travelling by motorhome or campervan, research the best campsites and book your place in advance.

If you’re travelling by car, organise hotel stays or book a hostel in advance so you can get a safe and good night’s sleep in between each stop.

4. Pack Smartly

Create a comprehensive list of all the essentials first. This includes food, clothes, toiletries, kitchen supplies, safety equipment and electronics.

For a more thorough checklist, read our guide for your motorhome packing essentials. Check the weather forecast to ensure you pack the right season of clothes, and try not to overpack to save space.

Use packing cubes and roll up your clothes to fit more items into your luggage.

5. Prepare Your Vehicle

Before you hit the road, follow each step on this checklist to ensure your vehicle is all set for travel:

  • Check all essential oils (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid)
  • Tyre maintenance (check tyre pressure and tyre tread)
  • Battery check (test battery health and carry jump leads)
  • Inspect brakes (test brakes and inspect pads and discs)
  • Lights and indicators (check all lights and clean lights)
  • Windshield and wipers (inspect windshield and replace wiper blades)

6. Plan for Meals and Snacks

To save time and money, prepare some meals and snacks that you can store before your trip.

Stock up on canned goods, dry foods, fruit, snacks, and beverages to keep you going while on the road. Meals like overnight oats, breakfast burritos, and yoghurt and granola are perfect for when you set off.

For lunchtime, prepare sandwiches, salads, and cold pasta for the first few days of your trip. If you’re travelling by motorhome, you can store them in the fridge to keep them fresh.

7. Stay Entertained

Whether you’re travelling alone, with a partner, friends, or children, it can get restless being on the road for so long between each stop.

To make the journey more enjoyable, pack some board games and books, and bring any electronics, such as tablets, to download and watch movies on.

This will make the journey go quicker and keep the little ones from getting agitated with boredom.

8. Be Flexible and Enjoy the Journey

Last but not least, have fun and be flexible! Unexpected things are bound to happen, so it’s best to go with the flow.

To get the most out of your trip, connect with locals and get insider tips and recommendations for the best restaurants, shops, and places to visit.

Stay hydrated and well-fed, and take as many pictures as possible for the memories!

Add Some Luxury to Your Trip with Melling Motorhomes

At Melling Motorhomes, we’re committed to ensuring your trip is one to remember.

With our wide selection of modern motorhomes, you can enjoy a fully equipped vehicle, large enough for a family to ensure a comfortable trip.

From 2-berth to 6-berth options, we have something for everyone. Book with us today for your next adventure.