Connect with us

Travel Tips

The Ultimate Guide to a Cross Country Road Trip

Published

on

camper campervan caravan 2580312

Crossing New Zealand is one thing. Going on a Road Trip in Australia is something else, but going on a trip through the United States of America is the ultimate adventure of adventures. It spans a continent, features deep canyons and tall peaks, deserts, and massive forests. Some of the world’s most famous cities, like New York City, San Francisco, LA, Las Vegas, all call the United States of America home, and the best way to enjoy all that it has to offer is on the road. 

The Best Way to Get Across the Country 

You have options when it comes to a road trip. Some want to feel the road as one and opt for a motorcycle. Others check out a car and drive from destination to destination. The best way, however, is with an RV rental

RV Options 

Large RVs can fit up to seven people and are perfect for big group road trips. They have air conditioning, a working bathroom, a gas-powered kitchen that includes a fridge and microwave, and can even pull additional weight behind them. 

Standard RVs are perfect for an average-sized family of five or less. They feature all the great amenities of the large RV, just with a smaller design.  

Compact RVs are perfect for small families or couples who want just a little bit more space than the truck camper. They are fully equipped with a working bathroom and kitchen and are great for both winter and summer road trips. 

Truck Camper RVs are great for those who have never driven large RVs before or other similar trucks. They are much easier to drive and can even come with a working bathroom, though their cooking capabilities are more limited. 

Packing for Long Haul Road Trips 

The next important step for your RV road trip is to prepare is what you are going to pack with you. 

Tips for an Efficient Road Trip Suitcase 

Good road trips are a few weeks at least, meaning that it isn’t feasible to bring enough clothes to wear once per day. The clothes you bring will, therefore, need to be hard-wearing and okay to wear again without being ironed or even being washed. The RV camps you stay in should have laundry facilities, but it’s best to choose items that can go a few wears without washing, just in case. 

This means choosing natural fabrics that wick away moisture. Jeans, for example, can be worn again and again without needing to be washed. Linen and wool are also great at keeping you dry, and wool is even hypoallergenic. 

The point is, they can be worn more than once, and chosen correctly can be worn in different ways throughout your trip. 

Tips for Stocking Up on Food 

Most RVs will come with a fridge and a microwave, but not all of them will come with a gas cooker. Even then, you are still down an oven, and it is important to plan your meals around that. 

If you have a cooker, stocking up on dry goods like pasta, rice, and other grains is a good idea. If you don’t, then there are options in stores, like microwavable rice. With a microwave, ready meals are, of course, always an option, though your ability to store them will be limited. 

Protein snacks, oatmeal, soups (which can be microwaved instead of cooked), and cereal are all a great set of basics to have with you. Try to stock up emergency provisions to ensure you always have something during your trip, and then as you travel to towns or pass by stores you can stock up more special meals. This way you’ll have food even if the weather takes a turn and pours down rain. 

Tips for Stocking Up on Toiletries 

You will have a shower and toilet in your RV, but that doesn’t mean you should just use any and all toiletries. Toilet paper, for example, can clog up septic tanks very easily. You will want to invest in a brand that is designed specifically to be used with RVs so that you can keep your toilet working for longer. 

Similarly, you won’t want to use toiletries that produce a lot of waste. You cannot throw it in the toilet and RVs have limited space to store garbage until you find a proper disposal unit. By using zero-waste products and reusable products you keep your RV spacious and clean. 

camera classic coffee 3050833

Tips for Planning Your Trip 

To help you plan a perfect trip, try implementing these top two tips: 

Choose a Region to Explore 

The United States of America is a big place and it would take months to explore the whole thing, even years. There is also a lot of farm space that doesn’t contain a lot of interest for a traveller. That’s why it is a good idea to explore a region. This could be the east coast, west coast, the south – whatever you pick, stick to that region and do it fully. 

You’ll have an excuse to go back and make the most out of your one trip. 

Stick to One or Two Big Things Per Day 

In order to see all the big-ticket items you will need to plan something, however. A good way to do this is to stick to either one or two big-ticket items per day, and then to give yourself three or four days at the end. These days can be used as break days whenever you want. 

As you are in an RV, you have more freedom in terms of your schedule. Unless you are travelling during the high season you should be able to find an RV camp along the way that has space for you for the night, and for a great price. 

Staying Safe on Your Road Trip 

Staying safe is very important. You will want to ensure that you are covered either by your own credit card or by travel insurance for emergencies and damages. You will also want to have roadside assistance and to prepare in advance, so you know safety tips when camping, on the road, and for all the activities you plan on doing. 

Cole is one half of New Zealand's leading adventure travel blogging couple who have been wearing out their jandals around the world since 2009. He loves any adventure activities and anything to do with the water whether it is Surfing, Diving, Swimming, Snorkeling or just lounging nearby on the beach. You can follow Cole on Google+. Or consider following us via RSS Feed, Twitter, Facebook and subscribe to our Newsletter.

Continue Reading

Travel Tips

How Travel Can Help Clarify Romantic Intentions and Prevent Ambiguous Relationships

Published

on

two happy female friends have fun relaxing yacht with glasses wine hands during sunset high seas scaled

Travel Synchronicity and Its Impact on Relationships

The concept of traveling synchronicity plays a crucial role in how romantic getaways are experienced. Studies indicate that when travel plans and expectations are well-aligned between partners, it enhances the overall experience. A harmonious trip results from the absence of misunderstandings, which can be achieved through effective communication of travel plans.

Academic research has highlighted this phenomenon, revealing that a coherent travel plan among partners leads to fewer misunderstandings. Ensuring that both partners agree on destinations, schedules, and activities mitigates the risks of conflicts during the trip. This harmonious planning process significantly contributes to a more enjoyable and less stressful travel experience for both individuals involved.

Clarity in Travel Intentions

Travel intentions play an instrumental role in the quality of a romantic trip. Researchers studying potential and repeat visitors’ travel intentions identified that destination image mediates the relationship between travel motivations and travel intentions. This means that the perception of a destination influences a person’s travel decisions and the purpose behind them.

Teresa Wu’s exploration on the topic, as detailed in her article “What are your travel intentions?”, underscores the relevance of pinpointing the primary objectives or goals of a trip. This methodology aids couples in organizing their activities and optimizing their time and resources. Clear travel intentions ensure that couples can effectively focus on shared goals, whether those are relaxation, exploration, or spending quality time together.

A further examination reveals that online interactions significantly influence travel intentions. A study of Tinder users during the COVID-19 pandemic found that individuals who disclosed more about themselves were more likely to plan future travels. This indicates a link between online self-disclosure and subsequent travel intentions, underscoring the role of transparent communication even before the actual travel process begins. This is particularly relevant in romantic contexts where understanding each other’s preferences and expectations can prevent ambiguity.

Communication, Trust, and Intimacy

Effective communication, trust, and intimacy form the pillars upon which travel intentions can be built and clarified. Online dating provides numerous opportunities to connect with a wide range of individuals, from those looking for serious commitments to those wishing to find an SB online, where shared interests and mutual respect are the foundation of the connection. The level of self-disclosure in these interactions can predict travel intentions significantly, suggesting that openness in online communications may translate to clear travel plans and intentions.

Clear communication about travel plans and intentions ensures that both partners are on the same page, which is essential in preventing misunderstandings. Trust and intimacy, developed through transparent conversations, pave the way for shared travel goals. The findings from various studies demonstrate that couples who communicate openly about their travel desires and intentions are more likely to have fulfilling travel experiences.

In practice, establishing a clear set of objectives for a trip helps manage expectations and aligns partners towards common goals. Whether the purpose is relaxation, adventure, or bonding, clarity in travel intentions reduces ambiguity and enhances the overall experience. By focusing on specific travel goals, couples can create itineraries that cater to their mutual desires and foster stronger relationships.

Conclusion

In summary, travel can serve as a clarifying agent for romantic relationships by promoting alignment in travel plans and intentions. The synchronicity in travel arrangements minimizes misunderstandings and contributes to a harmonious trip. Understanding travel intentions, influenced by factors such as destination image and online interactions, further aids in creating cohesive travel experiences. By emphasizing communication, trust, and intimacy, couples can ensure clarity in their romantic intentions, preventing ambiguous relationships and fostering deeper connections.

 

Continue Reading

Travel Tips

Visiting the UK for the First Time? 10 Things to Consider Doing (2024)

Published

on

joakim honkasalo J4G8uSwOGek unsplash

Are you planning a trip to the United Kingdom and feeling a little overwhelmed with all there is to do? No worries! The UK is packed with history, culture, and beautiful landscapes, making it an exciting destination for any traveler. To help you get started, here are ten things you should consider doing on your first visit.

1. Explore London’s Iconic Landmarks

London is often the starting point for many visitors, and for good reason. The city is bursting with iconic sights that you’ve likely seen in movies or read about in books. Be sure to check out:

  • The Tower of London: Learn about its rich history and see the Crown Jewels.
  • Buckingham Palace: Try to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
  • The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben: Snap some photos of these famous structures.
  • The London Eye: Get a bird’s eye view of the city from this giant Ferris wheel.

Walking along the River Thames will give you a great perspective of the city’s skyline, too!

2. Take a Day Trip to Stonehenge

Just a couple of hours away from London, Stonehenge is a prehistoric marvel that has stood on the British landscape for thousands of years. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous landmarks in the UK. Many tours are available that can provide round-trip transportation and insightful commentary about this mysterious stone circle.

3. Discover the Scottish Highlands

If time allows, venture north to Scotland and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish Highlands. With its rugged mountains, serene lochs (lakes), and sweeping glens (valleys), it’s an area of outstanding natural beauty. You might even want to try spotting the elusive Loch Ness Monster while you’re there!

4. Play the Irish Lottery

While exploring the UK, many travelers try their luck with the Irish Lottery. While based in Ireland, the Irish Lotto remains popular in the UK among locals and visitors alike. People can purchase a ticket from authorized retailers like Lottoland.

5. Visit Historical University Towns

The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, and the towns of Oxford and Cambridge are well worth a visit. Wander around the historic college buildings, admire the architecture, and maybe even take a punt (boat) down the river. Both towns have a unique charm and are brimming with history and culture.

6. Enjoy Traditional British Cuisine

Your trip won’t be complete without trying some traditional British food. Fish and chips are a must-have, ideally enjoyed by the seaside. Also, don’t miss out on a classic Sunday roast at a local pub, complete with Yorkshire pudding and gravy. For something sweet, afternoon tea is a charming British tradition where you can indulge in scones, sandwiches, and a selection of teas.

7. Wander Through the Lake District

The Lake District is England’s largest National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its stunning lakes, forests, and mountains. It’s the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you prefer hiking, cycling, or simply picnicking by the water’s edge, the natural beauty here is sure to leave you in awe. Don’t forget to visit the charming villages like Windermere and Keswick.

8. Experience the Welsh Culture in Cardiff

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, offers a blend of ancient history and modern Welsh culture. Explore Cardiff Castle, stroll through Bute Park, or catch a rugby match to experience the national sport and passion of Wales. The city also boasts a vibrant waterfront at Cardiff Bay, where you can find delicious Welsh cuisine and entertainment.

9. Attend a West End Show in London

For theatre lovers, attending a show in London’s West End is a must-do. The area is famous for its high-quality theatrical productions, ranging from musicals and comedies to classic dramas and new works. There’s something magical about spending an evening in one of the historic theatres, enjoying world-class performances that you’ll remember long after the curtain falls.

10. Visit the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland

A trip to the UK wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. This natural wonder consists of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, give or take, resulting from an ancient volcanic eruption. Legend says it was built by giants, and as you walk the coastal path with the Atlantic Ocean crashing beside you, it’s easy to see why this myth persists. It’s a truly unique and unforgettable sight.

Remember, the UK is more than just its sights; it’s the experiences and the people that make a trip truly memorable. So, chat with locals, take in the scenery, and immerse yourself in the culture. Have a fantastic trip!

Content to be used for social media sharing

Did you get receive an inheritance or own the Lottoland’s lottery and are planning a trip to the UK? Here are 10 things to consider doing next time you visit the United Kingdom.

 

 

Continue Reading

Travel Tips

Exploring Equatorial Guinea: A Journey through the Heart of Africa

Published

on

phi phi island ocean thailand scaled

Tucked away in the western part of Central Africa lies Equatorial Guinea, a nation often referred to as the “Heart of Africa” due to its geographical location straddling the equator. This small yet captivating country comprises the mainland region called Rio Muni and several islands, with Bioko being the largest and most populous. Exploring Equatorial Guinea is akin to embarking on a journey through a microcosm of Africa’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and history. So, if you are in the mood to plan a trip to this wonderful land, make sure to check out eVisa in order to keep things going easily and plan stress-free.

A Tapestry of Landscapes

Equatorial Guinea’s geography is as varied as it is stunning. From dense rainforests to pristine beaches and volcanic landscapes, this country offers a tapestry of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. The lush rainforests of Bioko Island are a haven for biodiversity, home to rare species such as the drill monkey and the African grey parrot. Hiking through the dense foliage, one can encounter cascading waterfalls, hidden lagoons, and endemic flora that thrive in this ecological paradise.

Venturing to the mainland, Rio Muni unveils a different facet of Equatorial Guinea’s landscape. Here, expansive savannas stretch as far as the eye can see, interrupted by winding rivers and rolling hills. The Monte Alen National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers intrepid travelers the chance to witness elephants, gorillas, and other wildlife roaming freely in their natural habitat. Explorations along the Rio Muni River reveal traditional villages where ancient customs and traditions are still preserved, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Equatorial Guinea.

Cultural Encounters

Equatorial Guinea is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from indigenous tribes, Spanish colonial heritage, and neighboring African nations. This diversity is reflected in the country’s vibrant music, dance, and cuisine. Traditional rhythms reverberate through the streets during festivals and celebrations, where locals clad in colorful attire showcase their ancestral dances passed down through generations.

The capital city, Malabo, offers a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modernity. Spanish colonial architecture stands side by side with contemporary structures, creating a unique juxtaposition of styles. The bustling markets of Malabo are a feast for the senses, with vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts crafted by local artisans. Exploring the city’s museums and galleries provides insight into Equatorial Guinea’s history, from its pre-colonial roots to its struggle for independence and subsequent development.

Island Escapes

Equatorial Guinea’s islands offer a perfect escape for those seeking sun, sand, and sea. Bioko Island boasts pristine beaches fringed by coconut palms, where azure waters beckon travelers to swim, snorkel, and dive amidst colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life. The island’s volcanic peaks provide a dramatic backdrop for exploration, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and even volcano trekking for the adventurous.

Off the coast of Rio Muni lies the tranquil island of Annobón, a secluded paradise untouched by mass tourism. Here, time seems to stand still as visitors immerse themselves in the laid-back island lifestyle, characterized by warm hospitality and breathtaking natural beauty. Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, exploring hidden coves, or simply unwinding on deserted beaches are among the activities that make Annobón a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Conclusion

Exploring Equatorial Guinea is a journey of discovery, where every corner reveals a new facet of Africa’s rich heritage and natural splendor. From the lush rainforests of Bioko to the pristine beaches of Annobón, this small yet diverse country offers endless opportunities for adventure, cultural immersion, and relaxation. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination, Equatorial Guinea promises an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

 

Continue Reading

Meet Cole and Adela

Cole and AdelaWe have been wearing out our jandals (Kiwi for flip-flops) on our travel adventures around the world since 2009. We think our blog is thought provoking and a little witty. But we have been proven wrong before. Find out more about us here...

New on Four Jandals

What Are You Looking For?

Subscribe

See Our Favorite Topics