Driving/road holidays in the US have surged in popularity. American Holidays has offered some top tips – covering safety and admin needs – for those looking to hit the open road this summer.
With searches on TikTok reaching 5.2 million for ‘road trips’, it’s clear people are longing to hit the open road, with the freedom it brings making it one of the most authentic ways to experience a new country.
- Recent insights show that 34% of travellers are planning on taking road trips, making it one of the most popular travel trends. (1)
- Searches for ‘road trip states’ have increased by 27% in Ireland over the last three months. (2)
- The team at American Holidays have shared their top tips to ensure that your road trip runs smoothly.
Whether you’re looking to find breathtaking landscapes on a family RV trip, or cruise along the coast in a convertible, there are many logistical factors to consider, from paperwork to the rules of the road.
So, for those looking to experience the open roads, windswept plains, red rock canyons and the occasional city pitstop,
So, whether you are experiencing a tour of British Columbia or Route 66, the experts at American Holidays have given their top tips to make sure your road trip runs smoothly.
1. Consider documents you might not have thought of
When driving abroad there are several documents that you’ll need to ensure you have with you, in addition to the documents you usually need to drive at home, such as insurance and tax papers.
If stopped and asked for proof, you could potentially have to present the following:
- A driving license is accepted in most countries around the world. If you are road-tripping, you will need to present this to rent a car. However, it is worth noting that provisional licenses are not accepted, and you could get yourself into trouble if you are caught driving with one in a different country.
- Some car rentals may require you to present your passport as ID. Luckily, you should already have this with you if you’re in a foreign country; just be sure to bring it with you when you go to collect your vehicle.
- Most rental companies will offer car insurance alongside your car hire. If not, you can always check if your travel insurance or credit card provider offers additional car insurance when travelling abroad. If you aren’t renting a car and instead driving a private vehicle, make sure you have the appropriate insurance.
2. Understand most car rentals require a credit card and may not accept debit cards.
Travellers may not realise, but credit cards are the preferred payment method for car rentals in several countries. This is because they can’t easily charge debit cards for unexpected costs like damage or fines after the rental period, unlike credit cards, which offer more flexibility in the billing process.
However, if you don’t have a credit card and would rather pay by debit, a quick search can help you find rentals that will accept debit. Although debit card users may be restricted to certain vehicle classes or locations.
3. Understand any local laws
Did you know that on Prince Edward Island, drivers are required to honk before overtaking other drivers? or that in Spain, you are required to have a spare pair of glasses with you when driving? These laws might seem trivial and unimportant but could easily get you pulled over and left with a heavy fine if ignored.
Regardless of where you are going, make sure you do your homework on local driving laws.
4. Prepare for all weather
Countries like the US and Canada are vast, and the weather can be extreme throughout the year. However, when it comes to being prepared, it isn’t just about having the right shoes or bringing enough water with you on the road. There are steps you can take before your trip to ensure that you stay safe while on the road.
- Make sure you are fully aware of the weather during the time of year you are visiting. While you might plan a trip in October or November to make the most of the autumn colours of Canada, there is a chance that the snow season could start early. In which case, it’s important to be prepared for any weather eventuality.
- GPS failure or incorrect routes can easily lead to getting lost. While using a phone or sat nav is reliable most of the time, a flat battery or traffic redirection can easily lead to hours of delays. To avoid this, it’s best to print off a copy of your route to stay safe.
5. Plan enough ‘off days’ with no driving to enjoy the destinations you visit
Taking days off from driving during a road trip is essential for both safety and enjoyment. By taking a break from driving, you allow yourself to rest and recharge, ensuring you’re more alert and focused when you get back on the road. Breaks also give you the chance to explore and appreciate the places you’re visiting rather than just passing through. Stopping for a day or two lets you soak in the local culture, try new foods, and discover hidden gems that you might miss if you’re constantly on the move.
Moreover, taking time off driving helps prevent burnout and keeps the journey enjoyable. A road trip should be about the experience, not just getting from point A to point B.
Dee Burdock, Head of Product at American Holidays said: “Experience destinations in a very personal way, getting time to visit places that are meaningful to you. Driving a car, motorcycle or RV is a fun and exciting way to get off the beaten track and discover local experiences. Being able to take your time discovering each place you visit at your own pace can create fantastic holiday experiences.”
Looking for more inspiration for your next road trip, please visit https://www.americanholidays.com/en-gb/road-trips/
