Traveling is always stressful, even for your most rugged, grizzled road warriors. The trips are long, you always have to be on your toes and being in unfamiliar faces is dependably draining.
This month, we’ve got some tips to share with you that can help make sure your mind is at as much peace as possible on your next road trip – but more importantly – a whole heck of a lot safer.
Let’s jump right in!
Share your itinerary
Some of us just hate the fact that everyone is watching what we do seemingly all the time and escaping the watchful eye of our supervisors, employees and peers is seen as a luxury in today’s world. But on a business trip, it’s a safer bet that someone knows where you are. That’s why if you have an itinerary, share it with someone.
That way people will know where you are. In case something happens like an accident and the like – at least someone will have a general idea of where you are, why, etc. Also don’t be afraid to check in. Sometimes we get stuck in cities, places and meetings and it’s good to call and/or text in to just say ‘I’m good, just running behind.’
Download some helpful apps
There’s an app for everything these days, and when you’re off the proverbial reservation, it’s a good idea to have those tools handy at your disposal. Some really good ones we’ve found:
- Gas Buddy – helps locate nearby gas stations quickly in case you’re running low on fuel.
- iExit – Restaurants, C-stores or whatever else you need is right at your fingertips.
- Me – Super detailed maps and it works in the most highly populated cities as well as totally remote rural areas. It also has an offline accessibility feature as well AND has updated exit information should you ever find your exit under construction unexpectedly.
Get your rest
Even the most hardened road warriors will tell you to get your sleep – especially if you’re driving. And on the road – that’s a little harder. Humans have a harder time sleeping in unfamiliar places, after all.
If you’re driving, make lots of rest stops where you can snooze for a bit if you have to. And at night – even if you don’t feel tired – it’s a good idea to rest at least for a little while. Our bodies naturally have triggers to doze purely because it’s night out; so don’t leave yourself and others susceptible to injury.
Keep emergency equipment on board
You never know when you’ll take a slip, a stumble, blow a flat, slam your hand in the door – accidents are all around us. Being prepared is important. A road emergency kit can cost you $20 and give you everything you need. Make sure you have it on you even if the rental car you’ve procured has one. Better to be safe than sorry.
If you already have one at home, just bring it with you. Toss it in the trunk or backseat.
Here’s our best for a safe business trip and an even safer trip home!