Road trip advice for saving time and money

The British essayist T.S. Eliot observed that "the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time." Road trips often end up in destinations we've been to before — such as a relative's home, a Las Vegas venue, or a familiar beach. But motorists shouldn't let familiarity be a reason to let their guard down.

Preparation keeps you safe

Yes, it's cool to listen to your favorite tunes and enjoy the company of your loved ones — but embarking on a road trip can be fraught with unforeseen hazards, especially if you're driving across the country.

Those hazards can include steam shooting up from under your hood due to an overheated engine, or losing your car keys after a night's sleep at a motel. Keep in mind that most of the time that you're on the road, you'd be in the middle of nowhere.

Tips for a good road trip

Bringing a spare key is a good idea because over four million drivers report being locked out of their vehicles each year. A spare key saves you the frustration, time and money of waiting for a locksmith who may take awhile to arrive at your location — most likely in the middle of nowhere. 

Figure out your budget and bring some emergency cash in case you can't find an ATM. If you're going to use plastic, consider using a card that has a rewards program so you can get some cash back or other benefits. If you're going on a long trip, you might as well get the most out of it, right? For example, as logic homework helpers advise, the BuyPower Card from Capital One can be used for road trip expenses, and the Earnings can go toward the purchase or lease of a new GM vehicle. How does it work? With the swipe of your card, you get 5% Earnings on your first $5,000 in purchases every year, then 2% unlimited Earnings on purchases after that. Even better, your Earnings don’t expire.

Bring food

You'll want to pack your snacks, and preferably healthy edibles that will keep you alert. Fruits, cereal bars and bottled water would be a good idea. If you're driving hundreds of miles, it can take awhile before you find the next convenience store and gas station, so bring some healthy snacks.

Also, have your music ready so you can pay attention to what's in front of your vehicle. Don't play with your smartphone or tablet — trying to find the right song — while you're driving. It only takes one deer or cow crossing the road to ruin your entire trip. Stay aware of road conditions at all times.

The takeaway

Preparation and alertness are key when going on a road trip. You can enjoy your travel knowing that all the bases are covered, and that you're doing your best to keep your friends and loved ones safe.