Road-Tripping Solo: Safety, Tips, And Finding Community On The Road
A solo road trip is the ultimate adventure, as you are in charge of where you want to go, what you want to see, and how you want to get there. It is also typically more affordable than flying somewhere on holiday, if you plan accordingly and stay in budget accommodation. The benefits are endless. You get to explore your country from the ground, meet locals, and have experiences you would never get abroad.
But it is important that you stay safe on the road. The tips below will ensure you have an enjoyable road trip with some extra precautions, and we’re also giving you advice on how to not feel lonely while solo travelling.
10 Top Tips For An Amazing Road Trip
Whether you’re planning a short weekend trip or crossing borders by yourself, you need to ensure your safety on the road. It may seem pedantic, but in the end, it will result in an amazing trip.
1. Prepare your car
Before sitting down behind the steering wheel, there are a couple of basics you need to double-check. Get your car serviced, check the oil, and make sure your tyres aren’t worn. You can also get your tyres balanced or rotated. If you’re driving an older car, a full safety inspection may be worth it, so you can drive knowing your battery, shocks, and brakes are working as they should.
You should also ensure your car insurance is up to date and confirm what you qualify for, like roadside assistance or towing.
Lastly, ensure you have emergency extras in your car, including:
- Spare tyre
- Tyre patch kit
- Jumper cables
- Warning triangle
- Spare blanket
- First aid kit
2. Plan your route before you drive
Being spontaneous can be really fun, so if you don’t want to plan the entire trip ahead, at least take a few minutes each morning to decide which routes you’re going to take. Google Maps is a massive help as you can change the settings to take the shortest route or avoid highways. This also helps you to plan your itinerary and research which sights you want to see along the drive.
Make sure you also schedule in rest stops and petrol stations. You may be eager to get to your next destination, but taking a couple of minutes to stretch your legs and double-check your route is worth it.
There are plenty of free roadside picnic spots in the UK in the countryside and on national roads. Here, you can grab a snack and enjoy some entertainment for a few minutes. One quick way to take a break is to play jackpot reels online. These games are quick, highly enjoyable, and you might even win some extra fuel money for the next leg of your journey.
3. Stay in unique accommodations
The cost of your road trip can quickly add up due to how expensive fuel is these days, so you need to get creative and cut costs elsewhere. The other biggest expense on your holiday would be where you sleep at night. Luckily, there are so many affordable and unique stays in the country.
Hostels and backpackers are an obvious choice for a unique experience. You can cut costs by staying in a dorm, and get to meet other people as a bonus. There are also plenty of campsites in the countryside where you can stay for just a few pounds, although you will have to pack camping gear ahead of time.
Skip the hotels and opt for B&Bs or self-catering instead. Yes, you will have to cook your own meals, but it is all part of the road trip experience.
4. Pack light
There’s no concierge on your trip, so pack light. You will be lugging your luggage in and out of the car each time you top. Having just one bag for clothes and one for food is the best way to go. A backpack is even better, as you can use it for day trips, too.
5. Let others know where you are
Choose an emergency contact and keep them up to date on your trip. Let them know when you depart, your route, and when you arrive safely. Just a quick text will do; many places have public WiFi. You can also share your planned itinerary ahead of time, but warn them that it can change.
6. Keep it local
Skip the franchises and chain hotels and stick to local eateries and overnight stays. You can even listen to the local radio to find out more about the area you’re driving through. When you stop to rest, try to find at least one local person to have a quick chat with. You might just discover incredible hidden gems that don’t feature in the guidebooks or blogs.
It’s usually the smallest experiences that stick with you the longest.
7. Stay off social media
The world has gone digital, and the dopamine hit you get when someone likes your social media post is incredibly rewarding. But when you’re travelling alone, especially as a female, it is best to stay off the socials for a while. The thought that strangers can get real-time updates on your whereabouts is scary, especially if you’re in a remote area. You’re also announcing to the world that your home is standing empty.
Delay your posts by a few days, or better yet, journal about your trip instead. You still have a record of your experiences, and you can make your post when you’re safely home.
8. Remain flexible
Plans change, the weather is unpredictable, and cars break down. It is inevitable that there will be a time when you have to suddenly adapt and make a new plan. You need to stay flexible and not panic when a situation needs you to reconsider your route or destination.
9. Eat healthy and stay hydrated
Packing healthy snacks will keep you comfortable on the road. It is tempting to buy fizzy drinks and greasy chips at the rest stops, but it’s best to avoid processed foods. Healthy meals and snacks will keep your energy up and help you stay mentally focused. Make sure to also pack enough water and a refillable water bottle. If you’re not a big hydro-homie, set a timer at intervals on your phone to take sips.
10. Have fun!
Don’t forget to enjoy the experience. Road trips can be stressful; you can feel panicked or frustrated, but when you do it right, you will make memories for a lifetime. The purpose of a road trip is not the destination, but the journey.
How To Make Friends While Travelling Solo
Driving for many hours can be a lonely experience, but it is easy to make friends on the road:
- Accommodation: Stay in hostels or B&Bs with a common lounge. It’s the perfect way to meet other travellers and share experiences. You might even meet a road trip buddy who will join you for a few days.
- Activities: Book local activities ahead of time, like a walking tour, cooking class, boat cruise, or dinner event. You’ll be able to meet both locals and travellers.
- Apps: Apps like Meetup.com list local events that you can check for your dates and see where you can drop in and join a group of people. Depending on the area, there may be a couple to choose from. You can also sign up for friend-finding apps like Bumble BFF to arrange meet-ups in areas you’re going to.
Wrapping Up
It’s time to hit the road! With these tips in your back pocket, you’re sure to have an enjoyable yet fun drive across the country. Remember to take in the views, breathe, drive at your own pace, and enjoy the journey.