Not many things are as exciting as getting to travel with your beloved partner by your side. You two get to spend time all by yourself, enjoying your status as newly-weds to the fullest, and doing things that make you happy. It is also an opportunity to learn new things about yourselves and spend some time outside of your day-to-day routines and away from all the noise, as well as mentally detach from work, household chores, and other daily duties, and tasks.
That being said, preparing for a road trip is not as easy as packing your bags, starting the car, and hitting the road. There is a lot more to be done before you leave the house, from making sure your car is in check to create a travel itinerary to planning a romantic surprise for your spouse. Here is a list of things you need to keep in mind when embarking on a first-time trip after tying the knot.
Find A Destination You Are Both Interested In Visiting
Many of us have a list of countries we would like to visit one day, and chances are that your partner has one, as well. On the other hand, some of us do not really plan ahead and just go with the flow, selecting our travel destinations spontaneously.
Nevertheless, you need to make sure that you select a destination that both of you are interested in. If you cannot agree on one when you first try to decide, do not give up. Instead, make a list of at least ten places you are eager to see, check which ones match, and decide accordingly.
Discuss Your Budget Beforehand
Where you go and how long you stay there also depends on how much money you decide to spend on your trip. The last thing you want is to enter a discussion about money during the trip. To avoid that topic, it would be best to create a realistic travel budget.
Figure out how much you can spend on a hotel and food, and consider creating a daily budget you will not go over. There are also apps you can use to keep track of your spending and ensure a stress-free trip.
Plan Your Trip Thoroughly
As a couple, you want to avoid misunderstandings, even more so when you are traveling together. Other than your travel budget, your itinerary also needs to be thoroughly planned. That way, you will get the most out of your trip and avoid any conflicts that may arise.
You also want to consider the activities and whether there are things you can enjoy together. Mutual highlights are what make these road trips memorable, so make them count.
Make Sure that Your Car Is In Good Working Order
It is understandable that you have great expectations when it comes to a first-time road trip with your darling. However, things do not always go according to plan and when you are traveling by car, there are a number of things that can go wrong.
That is why you want to make sure that you are ready for anything. Having a pair of functioning tyres is imperative when heading out for a road trip, and so is having a flat tire repair kit consisting of spare wheel, wheel brace, jack, tire gauge, inflator, and sealant. Keep your car in good working order and you can rest assured you will reach your destination safely and on schedule.
To make sure that your car is always in good working order, it is best to keep it protected and in pristine condition. Do not neglect accessories that will protect your car inside and out. For the interiors, equip your car with reliable and sturdy floor mats that will protect your car from spills, dirt, mud, and stains that could tarnish it. Better get customized floor mats that are tailor-made to snugly fit the floor of your car. That way, it stays still and will not keep getting out of place as you get on and off the car.
Divide Up The Responsibilities
Before you head for a trip, you need to understand the importance of working as a team. Discuss your responsibilities and decide how each of you will contribute.
Talk about driving and decide when and if you are going to switch. While one person is driving, the other one can help with navigation. Also, decide who is going to get the food and coffee when you are making a stop. When both of you are making an effort, it takes the stress out of traveling and makes everything go much more smoothly.
Plan A Surprise For Your Partner
This trip is all about the two of you, and you want to make it special. After all, this is your first trip together as a couple, which means you will remember it for years to come.
Think of this trip as an opportunity to be thoughtful and do something nice for your partner. That can mean different things for different people. A romantic dinner for two at a local restaurant, a bottle of champagne under the stars, or an entire day of pampering at the spa — we will leave it up to you to decide on the surprise that will bring a smile to your partner’s face.
If you are planning on traveling with your partner, you need to make sure that you have everything covered before you fill-up the tank and hit the road. Of course, it is easier than traveling solo, but still, road trips take time to plan out if you want them to go smoothly. Rely on these tips to prepare for your long-awaited journey as a couple, and start your marriage off on the right foot.
