If you're hesitant to take long trips alone, think of the trip as an opportunity to enjoy some time with yourself. As long as you plan your trip well and are prepared for any emergency situations, you can be sure to drive safely. Pack snacks, wear comfortable clothes, and bring a cassette of your favorite songs. Then, relax and enjoy the charming solitude along the way.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Preparing for the Trip
Step 1. Plan a route and mark where you will stop
Decide which road you will use to get to your destination, then choose an interesting destination that you want to visit during your trip. Even if you don't intend to stop by anywhere, keep marking where the stops are. This is important because even if you use a Universal Positioning System (GPS), you may run out of battery power or get no signal.
If you are driving for several days, plan how far you will drive each day. For example, you might be able to drive for 7 hours the first day, but only 5 hours the next
Step 2. Fill the car with the things needed for the trip
In addition to luggage, bring cash and credit cards. Do not forget to bring a driving license and proof of vehicle ownership. You should also bring a map even if you want to rely on digital maps that are in your car or cellphone.
- If you want to cross national borders, make sure your passport is still valid and stored safely in the car.
- Don't forget to bring your phone charger, especially if you use your phone a lot as a navigation tool.
Step 3. Do a car inspection before traveling
A week before you leave, take the car to a mechanic and have him check its condition. Making sure the car is in top condition can prevent engine damage during the trip. You may need to change the oil, refill the engine fluid, change the air filter, or buy new tires.
Do this a few days before the trip to allow time for additional repairs, if necessary
Step 4. Keep emergency supplies in the car
No one wants to experience a tire burst or emergency situation on the road, but it never hurts to be on guard. Prepare a spare tire along with other supplies needed. For example, if you are traveling to a hot place and are afraid the engine will overheat, prepare coolant. You should also prepare:
- jumper cable
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Simple kits
- Blanket or sleeping bag
Step 5. Tell family and friends about your plans
Since you are traveling alone, it is very important to let those closest to you know where you are going. Tell them the route and destination that will be passed, then say that you will contact them during the trip.
Email or jot down things to do so your family and friends can guide you
Tips:
You may need to leave your house with friends or family while traveling. Give the house key to a trusted person so he can enter if necessary.
Method 2 of 3: Making Travel Comfortable
Step 1. Wear comfortable clothes so you can relax
Do not wear tight clothing that makes it difficult to move because you will be sitting for a long time. Choose clothes that are light and loose so that you can move freely. Layer your clothes to keep yourself warm or cool during the trip.
If you are driving on a cold morning, you can wear a fleece jacket. You can remove the jacket when it's noon or passing through a hot location
Step 2. Listen to your favorite songs
Fill a music player with your favorite songs or bring a stack of cassettes. Enjoying music is a great way to kill time while driving long distances.
If you don't like listening to music in the car, find an interesting sound book or podcast
Tips:
Find out if your local library can lend you tapes. It's a fun way to enjoy new music on the go.
Step 3. Pack healthy snacks to eat
Keep easy-to-eat snacks in the passenger seat so you can eat them when you're hungry. Eating healthy snacks is also a great way to stay awake because it can keep you focused. Don't eat salty snacks that can dehydrate you. Some healthy snacks that can be eaten are:
- Granola bars
- Unsalted Peanuts
- Rice cake
- Fresh fruit and vegetables
- Biscuits
Step 4. Bring a fresh drink to stay hydrated
Water is one of the best drinks for long-distance commutes, but you can also bring coffee, tea, caffeinated drinks, or juices with you. Don't drink liquids that contain a lot of sugar, such as energy drinks, because they can make you feel restless.
If you want the drink to stay cold, place it in a small cooler and store it under the passenger seat for easy retrieval
Step 5. Don't look at the clock to see how far you've driven
If you want to get to your destination quickly, looking at the clock over and over will only add to the stress. Refrain from looking at the clock all the time. However, just relax and enjoy your trip.
Instead of focusing on driving time, think about how far you've traveled
Method 3 of 3: Keeping Yourself Safe While Driving Alone
Step 1. Choose a popular route that the highway passes
Stick to your plan and don't take shortcuts. If you are forced to turn, follow the signs carefully. Don't take alternate roads or routes you don't know about.
- Keep driving on the main road so you can stop and ask for directions if necessary.
- Adjust your travel plans if the weather gets worse and you don't feel comfortable driving.
Step 2. Follow local driving rules and drive below the applicable speed limit
Always install safety meth and pay attention to the surrounding conditions. Do not violate local regulations. However, drive safely and with caution.
If you are driving to another country, learn the rules. The rules there may differ from your country
Step 3. Take a nap if you feel sleepy
Find a safe, well-lit location and park your car. Lock the door and close your eyes for 20-30 minutes. It's better to take a short break than to risk driving while drowsy and having an accident.
- Start the journey after a night's sleep so you don't get sleepy on the road.
- Drink something caffeinated before resting to feel more energized when you wake up.
Tips:
To stay fresh, open the car window every now and then. Fresh air can help you stay alert.
Step 4. Don't talk on the phone or text while driving
Driving while playing with a cell phone is illegal. So, don't use your phone so you don't get a ticket. Calling or texting can be distracting while driving. In fact, you have to focus on the surroundings.
- If you need to pick up the phone, pull over to a safe place and pick up the phone.
- Using the hands-free calling feature has the same effect as holding the phone to your ear. So, don't use the jemala device to call someone.
Step 5. Rest to restore energy
Getting out of the car for a few minutes to stretch your legs and use the toilet is the best way to take a break. You can use this time to reach out to friends and family and let them know where you are.
Stop at a designated resting place or a well-lit business location. Do not stop on the side of the highway or in an unsafe area
Tips
- Pay attention to the sign indicating the distance to the refueling station. Do not wait until the gas runs out before refueling.
- Bring a fully stocked fuel container in case the car runs out of gas before it gets to the gas station. Make sure you
- Keep your mind occupied by playing the alphabet game. Recite the alphabet by taking one letter from each visible sign, billboard, truck sign, or car license plate.
Warning
- Keep in mind that each region and country has different regulations. If you are traveling to another country, seek information about local driving regulations.
- Don't share personal details about yourself or your travel plans with strangers.
