Tips for Long Drives

Long-distance moves can be stressful to plan, especially if you plan to drive your vehicle. We're here to help you prepare for the drive ahead with our list of tips for long drives.

Here's how to drive long distances safely and securely:

Plan Your Route

Before you get on the road, you must have a general idea of your route. Where do you plan to stop for food or stay for the night? Is there a long stretch where there are no gas stations for miles? To get started, you'll need to:

• Download the Route on Your GPS or Phone: Start by downloading the map on your phone. This will help you better understand the distances, and where to stop and find hotels if needed.
• Maps: Maps may feel old school to you, but they can be useful. This is especially true if you're driving through an area with no phone or internet service.
• Sightseeing: Possibly the best advice you'll get for learning how to drive long distances is to have fun! Don't forget to map out sightseeing along the way for you and your passengers.

Prepare Your Vehicle for Long Distance Drives

Once you have your route prepared, it's time to prepare your vehicle. Before you get on the road, you'll need to:

• Get a Vehicle Check-Up: Even if your vehicle runs smoothly, a check-up is essential. Consider having a mechanic check the engine oil, tire pressure, coolant, and air filter before you hit the road.
• Complete Any Repairs: If you've been holding off on getting something repaired, now is the time to do it. The last thing you want is for your car to break down halfway to your new destination.
• Gas Up & Check the Tires: On the big day of your move, make sure to get a full tank of gas, check your tires, and add air if needed.

Essential Long Distance Items

One of the best tips for learning to drive long distances is to ensure you have all the essentials before you get started. Consider creating a checklist filled with all of your must-haves. This checklist should include:

• Documents: Never leave important documents and paperwork with your movers. Instead, keep them in a safe envelope or box in your vehicle.
• First Aid Kit: You never know what might happen! For additional peace of mind, make sure you have a first aid kit in the glove compartment or trunk.
• Water & Food: A snack stash will ensure you're fueled for the drive and don't need to make additional stops. Consider packing a mini cooler with all your favorite snacks and drinks.
• First Night Items: Lastly, you'll want to ensure you have a bag packed with your first night items. This includes toiletries and a change of clothes. This way, you don't need to unpack all your items to find a few things for a night at a hotel or your first night at your new home.

We hope you can use these tips for long drives to plan and prepare for the journey ahead! Need a long-distance moving company to help assist you with your move? Request a free, no-obligation quote from North American Van Lines today to get started.