| Planning a Daytrip
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So. You've decided to take a daytrip, or a short adventure. Here's a list of suggestions we've assembled to
help make your trip as enjoyable as possible.
If you have other tips you'd like to suggest, drop us a note, we'd
love to hear from you.
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A Destination
Sometimes not having a destination is good, that is when your seeking an adventure. However, if you
have somewhat of an idea where you're going, then you will have somewhat of an idea what to expect.
Weather, traffic, etc. All of these things may be a big influence as to the quality of your trip. So
think (even just for a few minutes) as to where exactly you want to go.
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A Map
Even if you don't ever look at it, a map is one item you should always keep in your car. I keep
a variety of them close at hand. Getting lost is fun, but not when you're ready to go home.
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Emergency Supplies
Not so much that you could live in your car for 3 weeks, but it's not a bad idea to always
carry jumper cables and a first aid kit in your car. These items really should be around
whether your on a trip to the mall, or to the mountains.
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A Timeframe
How much time do you want to spend? Come to a conclusion as to when you'd like to be home,
and know that you can go at least half that time's distance before turning around and heading home.
Do you want to be home for dinner? Will you have children that have to do homework that night? These
things may be considerations. Also consider accounting for that weekend return traffic.
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Got Cash?
This personally is one of my big points that I like to take care of before a trip,
preferably the day before. Who wants to be driving in circles looking for an ATM machine
in an unfamiliar town? Maybe cash isn't a big need, but keep in mind it's rather embarrasing
to not have that $2.00 at a bridge toll booth. :-) You don't want to carry a wad of dough on
a nice daytrip to the shore, but an extra $20.00 or so wouldn't hurt.
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Are they open?
OK, how many of you saw National Lampoon's Vacation? You know, the one where the Griswalds
travel across the United States (wreaking havoc along the way) only to find that Wallyworld
(the destination theme park) was closed. Almost no matter where you're going, it's not a bad
idea to call ahead and confirm one way or another.
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How about a lunch?
Assuming you'll be gone the better part of the day, odds are you (and others accompanying you)
will get hungry. Do you want to find a little out of the way place to grab some grub? That always
adds some good memories to a trip. Or, do you want to save some money and pack a lunch? If your going
somewhere off the beaten path buying lunch there may not always be an option.
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Road Conditions
Depending on the time of year, road conditions may or may not be an issue. Be sure to consider this,
and if applicable it's always good to carry chains.
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Good Trip Planning Resources
London Daytrips, North England
Daytripgs & Getaway Weekends: Mid Atlantic States
Daytrips Hawaii: 50 One Day Adventures on Six Islands
Heavenly Weekends : Travel Without a Car
Daytrips Pennsylvania Dutch Country and Philadelphia
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