Road trips are exciting adventures. It could be with loved ones as you head to an exciting destination. Also, it could be a solitary ride for you to do some soul-searching. However, road trips sometimes entail long drives. Most people do not enjoy the feeling of being trapped inside the car. That is why it is essential to plan rest stops ahead of the trip. Here are some common reasons for you to hit the brakes.
Grab Some Food
QSR franchises are strategically placed to cater to the needs of travelers and motorists. You can opt for a full meal of chicken and rice, a light snack of pasta, a quick bite of chewy cookies, or really anything of your choice. No matter how eager you are to reach your destination or how much stash of food you have in your car, a rest stop for meals will allow you to eat in an unhurried manner. You must also remember not to drive immediately when you are full.
To Fuel Up
Your car also needs some rest. You must prepare your vehicle before a long trip. It must be in top shape to endure the long drive. But gas and air are different things. These need to be addressed on the day of travel itself. It may sound like something that only requires common sense. However, some motorists get so consumed in covering miles on the road that they stop only when the meter indicates an almost empty tank. To prevent this from happening, rest stops at gas stations must be planned.
“Mommy, I need to pee!”
When you are traveling with a child, this statement might evoke an exasperated look from you as you hear it countless times. However, bathroom breaks are essential rest stops. Whether a child or an adult needs to go, you must allocate time for these calls of nature.
Bathrooms are mostly seen in food establishments or gasoline stations. Thus, plan bathroom breaks in such a way that it is simultaneous with meal times and gasoline stops.
A Place to Stay for the Night
If driving fatigue is starting to take its toll on you at nighttime, consider booking in a budget hotel or motel. While you might want to drive at night because traffic is less, you would not want to fall asleep behind the wheel and be involved in an accident. If you have calculated your travel time beforehand and you know that you will be on the road at night, you might want to search for accommodation online and book in advance to be sure that you will have a place to stay.
Just to Enjoy the View
Sometimes, you do not need a reason for rest stops. When you see a scenic view, you want to breathe fresh air or stretch your legs a bit. You can pull your car at the side and take your time to relax. Appreciate the beauty of nature not just in your destination but on the road as you travel.
Rest stops are not an inconvenience but a necessity. They are for your physical and emotional wellness, as well as your safety. While there may be some spontaneous stops along the way, it is best to include rest stops in your travel timeline. You can use maps or navigation applications to plan this. Ideally, you will need a rest stop for every two hours of travel. This way, you will be more refreshed and excited as you reach your destination because you have had a comfortable trip.
