How to Prepare for a European Road Trip

Photo, Caption: Prepare yourself for the trip of a lifetime

Heading out on a European road trip is the dream vacation for many. So many countries are accessible within a fairly small footprint compared to the United States' vast areas. You can experience a variety of cultures, cuisines, and countries without traveling more than a few hundred miles. If you're lucky enough to be heading on such a road trip then these are our tips for making sure everything runs as smoothly as possible. So buckle up, it's time for the adventure of a lifetime!

Get Your Vehicle Serviced
There are some things that aren't terribly exciting but are extremely important, and making sure whatever vehicle you're driving is in tip-top condition is one of them. If your car has recently been serviced then you're in the clear, but if not, then it's a good idea to book it in for a quick once-over at your local garage. Those who are competent mechanics can probably do the work themselves. Things like changing the oil, checking the brake pads, and perhaps replacing tires are the real essentials. If you're planning on traveling through snowy terrain then it's a good idea to invest in some snow chains or snow tires as they are a legal requirement in some European countries.

Prepare Plenty of Fun and Games
Making sure that you've got plenty to keep you occupied in your downtime is never a bad idea. Online games are a great option because Europe has good mobile data coverage, meaning that, even in remote locations, you should be able to access the internet. Those who enjoy card games could ready themselves with a list of the best online poker sites, whilst those who prefer board games like chess can head online to play, or download an app to their phone. A good book is never a bad idea eithe,r and better still if you can find one that's based in the country that you're traveling through. It'll help you understand the book better and get a real flavor for your destination.

Buy Plenty of Snacks
There's nothing worse than driving around hungry, so stocking up on shelf-stable snacks is essential. A snack shopping day can be almost as fun as the vacation itself. Picking out tasty treats like trail mix, chips, cookies, and popcorn will get you in the mood to set off on your adventure. Don't forget to pack a coolbox full of drinks too – it's a real treat being able to stop somewhere scenic and crack open a cold can of soda.

Swat Up On Your Language Skills
Finally, one of the things that all the European vacation guides will mention is the benefit of learning a few key phrases. If you're traveling through more than one country then you'll have a little more to learn. Whilst most people you'll encounter will speak English, taking the trouble to learn how to say a few words like “hello”, “please”, and “thank you” in their native tongue will show willingness. You might even surprise yourself with how quickly you pick up the language.