No matter how long your journey is, staying safe on the road is imperative when you’re traveling as a family. However, interstate driving can pose more risks than short-distance travel – there’s a need to plan your route, ensure the safety of yourself, your vehicle, and your family, and to adhere to the local laws and guidelines of each state you visit.
It can feel like a lot to take into consideration, but so long as you’re clued-up on driving best practices, your trip as a family will go smoothly. Here are our three top tips for interstate driving.
Plan meticulously
Traveling as a family will inevitably involve more distractions than if you were traveling alone, so it’s important to be prepared. If you need to keep snacks in your car for your children, or toys to keep them entertained, then do so – you’ll need to focus while you’re on the road, so keeping them occupied and happy is essential.
Make sure you plan your route in advance, and know what time of day you’ll be driving, and how long your journey is likely to take. You’ll want to be prepared in case there’s any road closures or traffic, for your journey to go as smoothly as possible. If your children are young enough to nap and will do so in the car, you may be able to plan your driving times around this for minimal disruption.
Prioritize safety
The safety of your family is a priority when driving interstate, so don’t skip any steps when it comes to preparing your vehicle. It’s a good idea to:
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See a mechanic to have your brake system, battery, belts, and hoses inspected. They should also check your fluid levels, such as your engine oil and coolant.
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Check your tires for any visible signs of damage, and ensure the tread depth is within a safe range.
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Conduct a general inspection before you get in your vehicle – make sure to check child safety aspects, such as any car seats your family will be using.
Photo by winnievinzence
Preparing for emergencies is equally important – it’s not pleasant to think about, but ensuring you know what to do should you have an accident could save your family from getting hurt. Likewise, it’s a good idea to make sure your insurance is in order to protect your vehicle.
Check state-specific laws and advice
While some driving laws are the same across all states – like wearing seat belts, driving on the right side of the road, and stopping completely at a stop sign – there are others that vary between states. A good example of this is differences in state speed limits, so make sure you familiarize yourself with them before traveling.
It’s also a good idea to check local updates and advice, such as weather condition alerts for each place you’re passing through. This will ensure a smoother journey for you and your family.
Additional considerations
Ready to set off? Follow these three tips for an enjoyable interstate journey. You may have unique circumstances you need to consider, such as if you’re visiting from abroad and are not familiar with U.S. roads – in this case, you’ll need to be extra cautious to keep your family safe. Similarly, newly qualified drivers may need a little extra time to prepare and get up to speed with different driving laws.
Cover photo by SundryPhotography
