Road trips were always fun but they were made fashionable by Dil Chahta Hai. If you were not motivated enough by it, there is Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. All it takes is one of your gang members to drown in nostalgia and launch a road trip campaign. Everyone will be excited, a WhatsApp group will be created, people will back out, and eventually, only those captivated by wanderlust shall embark on the great Indian road trip.
Unlike the movies, you shall not reach your destination in a span of few minutes. Road trips are more about the journey than the destination. Read ahead to know the road trip essentials you need to enjoy a smooth ride.
Contents
Meticulous Planning
A road trip in Himachal Pradesh poses different challenges than a road trip in Kerala. Your road trip should be planned meticulously keeping the location in mind. Geographical, environmental, economic, political, and other issues need to be addressed beforehand to avoid mishaps. Also, your fellow passengers need to be chosen wisely. Some terrains are not suitable for everyone, for example, Ladakh.
Car Care
Ensure that your car is all geared up for the trip by servicing it. Inform the mechanic that you will be going on a road trip so that a through car maintenance needs to be done. Tail lights, braking system, engine performance, etc. should be perfect. Fuel it up and always keep an eye on the fuel meter.
Keep the car’s interiors hygienic. Foul smell or insects in your car can disrupt your road trip. Take a charger for your mobile phone and a laptop if you are carrying one. For some, music is as essential as fuel. So, pay extra attention to your playlist if you fall into that category.
Self Care
Long road trips mean you will be seated in your car for hours. Thus, wear comfortable clothing and stock food and water. If you need specific medication, carry an adequate quantity of it. Hand sanitizers and tissues are truly valued on road trips that involve a considerable amount of traveling through rural areas. Have a first-aid kit handy and carry cash.
Google Maps are great but over-relying on technology can prove counterproductive in some cases. The satellite might not be able to gauge local conditions to perfection. Sometimes, relying on directions given by a chai-sipping chacha at a tea stall can be helpful too. Of course, you need to be diligent about whom to ask and always apply your common sense while navigating. Keep an eye on the road signs and keep checking whether you are on the right track or not. Avoid driving after sunset as the night is dark and full of terrors, and it can lead to an accident.
Proper Documentation
Following traffic rules and regulations gains more weight when you are going on a road trip. Violating rules can attract fines and make you accident prone. You don’t want to jeopardize your trip because of some foolishness, do you? Cooperate with traffic police officials if they stop you. Carry essential documents such as your Driving License, Car’s Registration Certificate, Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUC), and Car Insurance Policy.
Have Safe Adventurous
Yes, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani but Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, it is important to drive safely while you Rock On during your road trip.
Also, read: Vehicle Scrappage Policy in India
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