Whether you’re headed on a fun road trip or you have to travel a long distance for business purposes, it’s important to be prepared. Driving for hours can take its toll on the mind and body, but when you’re ready with a game plan, take note of convenience stores or truck stops along the way, and have your route laid out, you can be confident that your drive will go as smoothly as possible. Here are three tips to keep in mind.

What Are Some Effective Strategies for Driving Long Distances?

1. Pack Essentials for the Drive

In addition to your suitcase full of travel essentials, make sure you have a bag full of essentials you can use as needed during your journey. Pack enough snacks to keep you sustained in the event that you can’t pull off the road when hunger strikes, and make sure that you have enough water on hand. 

Other important items to pack include any medication you take regularly, tissues, a hand towel, a blanket, a first-aid kit, chargers for your various devices, and an emergency car kit with jumper cables, a flashlight, and signal flares. Make sure you’ve got a spare tire, too.

2. Plan Pitstops Along the Way

Driving nonstop for hours isn’t feasible for many reasons, but you’ll want to plan pitstops along the way just to get some fresh air and stretch out your legs. Make it fun by researching locations where you may want to stop during your drive. 

Maybe there’s a specific historic site or attraction that might be worth a quick detour. Take note of any convenience stores along the way, too. You can refuel with hot food and coffee, plus grab some snacks for the rest of the drive.

3. Refuel Your Car as Needed

Try not to wait until your car’s gas tank is almost empty, as this could turn into an issue if you get caught in unexpected traffic or temporarily lose your way. Aim to refill every time your tank is about a quarter full, or whenever it’s running low and you pass by a gas station. Keep in mind that since you’ll likely be driving through unfamiliar territory, it’s best to fill up when you can instead of searching for an open station with a low fuel level in the tank.

If you’re driving through Tripoli, WI, plan a stop at Tri-Mart BP. The family-owned convenience store and gas station has you covered whether you want to pick up some fresh snacks or need to refuel your car. You can even buy hot food here. Visit the website for more information, or call (715) 564-2440 to speak with a representative.