How To Roam The Roads With Your Favorite Grown-Up Toys
Fall is here, and that means it’s road trip season. But if this is your first year with an RV, motorcycle, or both, there are things you should know before you go. Keep reading for tips and insight on how to make the most out of the open road.
Choose Wisely
First, choose your vehicle wisely. If you’re buying an RV, make sure to let your dealer know exactly what you want. When overnight comfort is a priority, ask about bedding options. Similarly, if you plan to spend most of your time outside, have an exterior entertainment sound system, preferably with Bluetooth capabilities, installed prior to pick up.
When a motorcycle is on the menu, shop around here, as well. For road trips, a sports bike might not be the best option. But if you want comfort and off-road capabilities, Cycle World asserts that an adventure-style motorcycle, or ADV, might be a perfect fit.
Gear And Equipment
Now that you have your preferred road toy, it’s time to make sure that you are packed properly. On a bike, there’s not much to it. For the most part, you’ll want to pack light and dress appropriately for the weather. This might mean wearing layers and stopping periodically to add or remove clothing as needed. Make sure to pack plenty of water and keep a separate paper map or freestanding GPS in your saddlebags in case you happen to lose your phone. If possible, keep your motorcycle cover handy to protect your bike from unexpected bad weather and to keep it as clean as possible for the journey. And of course, traveling with your toys on a TruckBoss Deck is the best way to get your RV, truck and other ride wherever you want to go.
Stocking your recreational vehicle takes a bit more planning. If it’s new, maintenance won’t be an issue, but you will still want to make sure that you have jumper cables, a flashlight, road flares, and solar batteries handy. If you’re using your smartphone for GPS, it’s also a good idea to secure it with a mount or cradle. First aid and cleaning supplies should also have a special place in your home away from home, and your kitchen should be stocked with compact appliances, such as a coffee maker or electric grill. The SpaceWise blog also recommends keeping cooking staples, such as soup, microwave popcorn, and peanut butter handy so that you are not having to constantly stop at gas stations and expensive diners.
Planning And Execution
No matter which type of vehicle you choose to roam the roads with, preparation is key. Condé Nast Traveler recommends a combination of common sense and spontaneity. In other words, plan ahead, but don’t be afraid to travel off the beaten path should it call your name. Start your journey by mapping out your route. This will ensure you know where essential services are located along the way. Mark points of interest. Book your accommodations, if necessary, at least a few weeks in advance. If you are a small business owner, you may fret about the loss of income that comes with closing up shop in order to take a vacation; however, remember that the benefits of rest and relaxation more than exceed the cost of lost revenue in the long run.
Make it a Side Gig
If by chance you are interested in turning your adventure into a moneymaker, remember that many people blog and vlog about their journeys these days. Get into the action by creating a website and social media materials for your followers. Create your personal brand so your audience recognizes you across multiple platforms, beginning with a quality logo. While this might sound challenging, you can use a custom logo maker to do this quickly and easily.
Before the Rubber Hits the Road
Contact your mechanic for maintenance if you’ve purchased an RV or motorcycle used, and ask specifically for a travel tuneup. This may include everything from changing the oil to checking the tire pressure. It is a simple step you can take to help ensure that your mode of transportation is ready to give you the adventure you’ve been dreaming of.
A road trip is a great way to socially distance yourself from the world while staying close to those you love. Whether you plan to hit the road on two wheels or in your rolling home, preparation is essential. From planning your route to stocking supplies, the steps you take now to get ready will help you keep moving forward on the road ahead.
Remember to consider donating your vehicle when you’ve enjoyed all the adventure you can stand (or just need an upgrade before you go). Connect with Cars2Charities by calling (855) 520-2100.