Taking a road trip is a fantastic way to see the Sunshine State. Whether going to Tampa or Key West, driving provides great opportunities for sightseeing and learning about the history of this diverse state. However, road trips can also be stressful and dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. Here are some tips on how to survive a road trip in Florida:
Remember to Plan for and Take Breaks
If you’re planning a road trip in Florida, do your best to plan for and take breaks. Florida is a big state, and the weather can be unpredictable. If you’re driving during the summer, it’s important to know what kind of heat you’ll be facing if you’re not prepared for it.
Additionally, taking breaks is important to keep you and your vehicle safe. You should take a break every two hours, with a minimum of 15 minutes. You can use the time to stretch, grab a snack or drink some water.
Ensure That Your Car Is in Peak Condition
Before heading out on your road trip, it’s important to ensure your car is in tip-top shape. Check for fluid leaks. If any fluid is dripping from anywhere on your vehicle, you might need to stop by the mechanic and have them look at it before taking off on a lengthy journey.
Make sure brakes are working properly by stopping at least once every 15 minutes while driving long distances. This will allow brake pads to cool down, so they don’t overheat at cruising speeds after being used too often without rest.
Be Mindful of Other Drivers
Drivers in Florida are notorious for being aggressive and careless, especially when it comes to merging lane changes. If you’re going to be taking a road trip in the Sunshine State, it’s important to be mindful of other drivers and their behavior behind the wheel.
Florida’s highways are packed with cars, trucks, and RVs. It’s easy to forget to slow down or change lanes safely in the chaos. Even while talking or listening to music, keep your eyes on the road.
Keep an Eye Out for Wildlife
When you’re driving in Florida, keep an eye out for wildlife. Animals such as deer and alligators are common sights on the roads, but they can also be dangerous if you get too close. They may dart into traffic and cause serious accidents with your car or truck.
At dusk and dawn, keep an especially close eye out for wildlife crossing the road as they move between watering holes and other locations where they eat or sleep. Be careful when approaching animals that seem weak or injured. They may have trouble getting out of your way if they feel threatened by your presence.
Go to a Few Quirky Attractions
Florida is home to a lot of amazing attractions. From the natural beauty of the state’s beaches, forests, and wildlife to the incredible man-made wonders of Disney World, Florida has something for everyone. It’s also home to some pretty quirky attractions worth checking out if you’re looking for something different from the norm.
Also, if you’re planning on visiting Florida for the first time, try to avoid the big tourist attractions. Instead, focus on finding some quirky places that only locals know about.
Eat at a Few Local Restaurants
Don’t be afraid to try some local cuisine. If you visit the same chain restaurants weekly, your trip won’t be as memorable. Instead, pick a few new spots and treat yourself to something different from time to time. You may find the local fare is just as good as anything on the home menu.
If you’re traveling with kids or other people who are picky eaters, this tip is especially important. Eating at a local restaurant allows you to try some amazing new dishes and helps support small businesses in your community. In addition to that, it’s always fun for kids to try something new.
Make Sure You Have Good Insurance
If you’re planning on taking a road trip to Florida, it’s important to make sure you have good insurance. That way, you can be protected if something happens while you’re out there. Companies such as Affordable Car Insurance Tampa can help you find cheap car insurance options to ensure you’re protected on the road; you just need to contact us today!
Takeaway
We hope these tips were helpful! Remember to keep an open mind and try new things while on your road trip. If you’re overwhelmed by the options, pick one or two from this guide and go from there.
