Wisconsin is full of great destinations to explore. Road trips can be a great way to explore nearby adventures without having to dedicate the same resources as a larger trip. On a road trip, you can customize everything to your preferences between your end destination, how often you stop, and what you want to see along the way. No matter how you customize your route, one thing should remain consistent – your safety.
Tips to stay safe on a road trip
Prepare your car properly
Preparation is the first step to a great road trip. Preparing your car includes paying careful attention to its maintenance schedule, thoroughly inspecting parts, cleaning the interior, and packing anything you might need in case of an emergency.
Plan out your route
It can be exciting to stray from the beaten path, but take extra care if you do so. Planning your route can help make you aware of any bumps in the road, like construction, that could slow you down on your trip. Plan in advance to ensure the best views, and overall, the best trip. Make sure not only to plan for scenic stops and activities, but look for rest stops, grocery stores, gas stations, and drug stores in case you need to grab anything you’re missing on your trip. It’s a good idea to also plan a backup alternate route in case of unexpected delays or closures.
Prepare for emergencies
Nobody likes an emergency, especially one that comes when you’re unprepared. If something happens while you’re away from home, you might have limited resources and options for help and repairs. Before you make the journey, consider the following to help ease your mind:
- Research rest stops, tow truck businesses, mechanics, and hospitals or medical centers along your route in the case of an emergency.
- See if your car insurance policy has towing coverage just in case you need help during your trip.
- Keep all valuable documents and cards with you, including your driver’s license, car insurance, and a copy of your car’s registration.
- Have an emergency kit in your car should something happen along the way.
- Designate an emergency contact so that should something happen, emergency providers know who to contact.
Share the journey
Sharing the journey can be one of the most meaningful parts of a road trip. If you’re traveling alone, it’s best to keep those close to you updated on your location. Give a copy of your route and itinerary to a friend or loved one as well as your anticipated start and end times so they can ensure you’re safe. Many devices offer the option to share your live location with those in your circle. You can also activate an emergency response on your phone, like a text message or phone call, should it detect that something happened to you during your trip, like an accident. Even if you’re not alone, preview your route in advance so you know what’s on the road ahead, and consider keeping a printed map in case you hit an area with no signal to keep you on the right track.
Keep your eyes on the road
Are we there yet? Sometimes the road trip isn’t about the destination—it’s about the drive ahead. Keep your eyes on the road so you have the safest trip and the least obstructed view of what’s ahead. Passengers can play our Wisconsin Road Trip Bingo to keep the miles flying by. After all, the safest, and most scenic view, is the one right outside of your window!
Safety starts with preparation for your next adventure and that requires a car insurance policy that can protect you no matter the road ahead. To get started finding the right protection, contact your local Rural Mutual agent.
