Road Trip Tips for New, Young Drivers

Mar 30, 2023

We know a lot of young drivers are heading out for Spring Break soon, and Summer Vacation is just around the corner from that! That’s why today’s blog is dedicated to helpful tips for new and recently licensed drivers. We want to see you hit the road to adventure and make the most of life, but for you to do so as safely as possible! Check out these hints, tips, and advice from seasoned drivers to keep you and your car in tip-top shape no matter what life throws at you, and where the road takes you.

Already have your first car and itching to get out in the world for a road trip? Check out these helpful tips for driving in Spring Breaks and Summer Vacations.

Plan your itinerary ahead of time. Be sure to include a list of rest stops, gas stations, and eateries at different points along your route. Being spontaneous is still possible, but having a general idea of where you’re going, how far each stop off is, and what you’d like to do can save plenty of time, money, and gas! And it’s always good to let someone know where you’re going, so be sure to give a copy of your road trip itinerary to your family and friends so they can stay in touch and know where you are in case of any emergencies. This will also help you budget better to know how much you’ll need for fuel, accommodations, etc!
In warmer weather, especially the summer, the hottest part of hte day is between 10AM and 5PM, traveling before and after those hours can make for a cooler, more comfortable ride (especially in older vehicles whose AC may be a little less reliable).

Drive the speed limit and obey posted traffic signs to avoid costly tickets and points on your license. During periods like Spring Break and Summer; there is an increased number of drivers on roadways as well as patrol officers doling out tickets. Adhering to posted signage will save you a lot of grief, and keep more money in your pocket for activities and adventures!
Check your car’s fluid levels and top them off before you hit the road. Make sure that your gas tank is always full before you head off to your next destination, and never let it get below ¼ tank on long journeys. Your engine oil should be changed every 3 months. And you’ll want to make sure that your coolant is topped off so your car doesn’t overheat.
Keep calm, cool, and collected if you hit traffic or delays. Increased travel rates means increased traffic. If you find yourself stuck in a jam, be patient and do your best to avoid road rage. It’s never worth getting into a tiff with another driver, and it’s better to be patient so everyone arrives safely. Allow extra time on your journey for road congestion, and check live maps like Waze or GoogleMaps for constant traffic updates.
Get plenty of rest before you head out on the road. Exhausted drivers can make costly mistakes and even end up in serious or fatal collissions. If you find yourself getting tired while driving, be sure to pull over and put your hazards on and rest. Even better, switch off with other passengers in your car, splitting the journey between you so that everyone gets to recharge and resume driving after feeling rested.