10 Mistakes to Avoid When Planning a Road Trip
Road trips can be epic adventures filled with laughter, unexpected detours, and memories that last a lifetime. But let's face it, they can also turn into epic fails if you're not careful. To keep your road trip on the fun side of the spectrum, here are ten mistakes to avoid, with a little help from our friends at Motel 6 to keep things budget-friendly and stress-free.
1. Neglecting Vehicle Maintenance
Why It's a Mistake:
Breaking down in the middle of nowhere is only funny in movies.
Avoid It By:
Giving your ride some TLC before you hit the road. Check the oil, tires, brakes, and battery. A quick tune-up could save you from becoming a cautionary tale.
2. Overpacking
Why It's a Mistake:
Channeling your inner packrat means you’ll spend the trip squished between suitcases, snacks, and that inflatable flamingo you insisted on bringing.
Avoid It By:
Packing light. Plan outfits, embrace the re-wear, and use space-saving techniques. Plus, less luggage means more room for spontaneous souvenirs (and legroom).
3. Underestimating Driving Time
Why It's a Mistake:
Realizing you’re still 5 hours away from your destination at midnight is the opposite of fun.
Avoid It By:
Using a GPS or mapping service to estimate driving times accurately. Add extra time for rest stops, meals, and random photo ops. And remember, Motel 6 has plenty of locations for those necessary sleep stops.
4. Not Planning Rest Stops
Why It's a Mistake:
Driving until you're bleary-eyed and grumpy is no way to spend a vacation.
Avoid It By:
Scheduling regular breaks every 2-3 hours. Stretch, snack, and stay sharp. Motel 6 locations are perfect for those longer breaks when you need a cozy bed instead of a car seat.
5. Ignoring Weather Conditions
Why It's a Mistake:
Driving into a blizzard because you didn't check the forecast? Rookie move.
Avoid It By:
Checking the weather before you go. Be flexible with your plans if Mother Nature throws a curveball. Rain, sleet, or snow, Motel 6 has you covered.
6. Relying Solely on GPS
Why It's a Mistake:
When your GPS says, "You have arrived" in the middle of nowhere, you might wish you had a backup.
Avoid It By:
Bringing a physical map or a printed route. Familiarize yourself with the main roads and landmarks. Getting lost can be an adventure, but not always the good kind.
7. Skipping Local Research
Why It's a Mistake:
Missing out on hidden gems because you didn’t do a little homework is a bummer.
Avoid It By:
Researching your destinations ahead of time. Learn about local attractions, customs, and road rules. And hey, Motel 6 staff often have great local tips!
8. Failing to Budget Properly
Why It's a Mistake:
Running out of money halfway through the trip means eating PB&J sandwiches for the rest of your journey.
Avoid It By:
Creating a detailed budget for fuel, food, accommodations, and fun stuff. Use the Motel 6 Marketplace for discounts on travel essentials like food and gas to stretch your dollars.
9. Not Booking Accommodations in Advance
Why It's a Mistake:
Driving around looking for a vacancy sign at 11 PM is nobody’s idea of fun.
Avoid It By:
Booking your accommodations ahead of time, especially during busy travel seasons. Motel 6 and Studio 6 are budget-friendly options. Sign up for My6 to get 6% off year-round and sweet holiday discounts.
10. Overplanning or Underplanning
Why It's a Mistake:
Too much structure makes the trip feel like a boot camp; too little, and you're a wandering nomad.
Avoid It By:
Creating a flexible itinerary with must-see spots and leaving room for spontaneous detours. Balance is key, just like finding the perfect road trip playlist.
A well-planned road trip can be the adventure of a lifetime, filled with laughter, scenic views, and unforgettable moments. Avoid these common mistakes, plan ahead, and let Motel 6 be your go-to for comfortable and budget-friendly accommodations. Don't forget to sign up for My6 to enjoy 6% off year-round and exclusive holiday discounts.