Post graduation is an exciting time for your teen, and they’re probably going to want to have one final taste of freedom before joining the world of us grownups! If your teen is planning their very first road trip, you’ll probably have your reservations. Whether they’re going away with a big group or a couple of friends, they’ll have a lot to prepare before they set off. If you’ll be the one doing most of the preparation, though, this guide from PassSmart is designed to help you get them, and yourself, ready for the adventure!
Who’s driving?
Depending on how big the group is, they’ll need to decide on designated drivers and make sure everyone who is planning to drive is insured on the vehicle. It’s important to make sure that more than one or two people going can drive as each driver will need enough resting time between getting behind the wheel.
What they’re driving is another question you should ask. Although we’d all love to be cruising down route 66 in our vintage, classic car, it’s probably not the most sensible of ideas. Make sure the vehicle they’ll be traveling in is reliable and not likely to leave them stranded at the side of the road. This will give you peace of mind and will ensure their journey runs smoothly.
Money saving tips
There’s no doubt that a road trip can be expensive if you don’t budget for it. Make sure your teen has got some money saving tips up their sleeve before they set off, and (hopefully) they won’t overspend whilst they’re away.
Eco-driving
Eco-friendly driving is one of the easiest ways to save fuel. Teach them some simple eco-driving tips like gentle acceleration and braking, and they’ll have to fill up on gas much less frequently.
Eating in
One of the best ways to save money on a road trip is by cutting down on eating out. Depending on how long they’re going for and where they’re going, you might be able to help them pack some supplies. Pick non-perishables so they can carry them in the car with them, making the temptation to dine out much easier to ignore!
Get the App
There are loads of apps out there which are designed to make driving long distances and exploring new places much easier. We know it’s pretty much impossible to keep them off their smartphones, so this is one tip that they’re bound to use. There are lots of free GPS navigation apps out there which they might like to try, and also lots of apps designed to help them find their nearest restaurant, hotel, activity and more.
Hands-free
Sticking to the subject of smartphones, it might be a good idea to buy them a hands-free system to use on the journey. Not only will this be a useful investment for future drives, but it will also stop any temptation to use their phone whilst driving.
Keep in touch!
Finally, make sure you keep in touch. It’s important to remember that trips like these are a rite of passage but that doesn’t mean you’re not going to worry. Check in with them every couple of days, even if it’s just a message on Facebook, and you’ll feel much more at ease knowing they’re safe and enjoying their trip!
These hints and tips were provided by PassSmart.com; a British company who work in the driver training industry.
These remind me when I took my first road by myself over a few state lines. Yes, it’s good to be totally prepared when you’re a new driver. You never know when a new or (hopefully not) dangerous situation might spring up. Knowing the necessary steps to take is always beneficial, as is having the necessary items. Teenagers these days have the advantage of smart phones and apps! Those seem really helpful.