Roadtrip: 5 Tips for the perfect trip
Finally, it's that time again! The borders are open and we are allowed to travel the world again. "We outside, baby!" - after two years of lockdown and pandemic. Now, many will travel to their destinations by plane. Others are looking forward to a cruise by ship through the Azores Islands. For my girls and me, it's off to Italy by car. Yes, that's right: we're taking a road trip to and through Italy.
We have the joint planning phase behind us and in the process, I noticed 5 points that I would like to share with you below. These 5 tips should be considered in your planning!
1. Determine destination and accommodation
Determine a destination and inform yourself about accommodation options. As already mentioned above, my girls and I are going from Baden-Württemberg (DE) via Switzerland to Campania - a region in the south of Italy. On our route, we have planned a total of 4 fixed stops. At each stop, we want to spend a few days exploring these places - a bit like "Dora the Explorer" ;) We have booked our accommodations on booking.com. But if you prefer it more "homey", you are also welcome to book an inexpensive apartment via Airbnb.
2. Consider traffic rules
Before you rent a car I recommend you to do your research: Which traffic rules apply in which country? Are there any environmentally friendly zones to be aware of? Whatever comes out of your research will help you in your planning. In addition, the research will help you find the right car for the trip.
3. Find the right car
After the destination is set and the accommodation is booked, the next step is to find the right car and book it on time. In Germany, there are many well-known car rental companies such as Europcar, Sixt, or Enterprises. I recommend you to use comparison portals like Expedia or Check 24. This will save you a lot of time and money. The portals compare all prices and providers to find the best offer for you. We booked our scales via Check 24.
Attention: When booking, make sure that you choose a rental car that is fully insured, has fair fuel rules and all kilometers are free. Also, an additional driver should be included. If this is not the case and there is a mileage limit, for example, additional costs could arise. If you are more than one person, I recommend booking an additional driver. Then at least two drivers are allowed to drive the car alternately. Last tip: don't forget to read the small print to get information about deposits etc.
4. Get maps
Prepare well and get maps. Google Maps allows you to save your route on your smartphone. This will help you to stay on course even offline and to keep track of your route. To do this, just go to Google Maps and click on Menu. Then select "Offline Map" and download the whole thing (with wifi).
I also recommend downloading road trip apps like ADAC, AroundMe, ParkMe, or GasBuddy.
5. Find the right travel companion
My last tip is all about finding the right travel companion. Choose your travel companion wisely. Because you will not only spend 24 hours with the person but several days or even weeks. Think carefully about who might come into question and with whom you want to experience the most exciting adventure of your life. Because the wrong travel companion can turn your road trip into a nightmare.
