After a year of spending way too much time at home, we’re all ready to break free and hit the open road. The quintessential road trip is all about making memories, exploring new terrain and having fun, and while freedom is also part of the point, you don’t want to take it too far: a little planning goes a long way in ensuring a smooth ride. To help create a memorable experience with minimal stress, we offer 10 dos and don’ts for the ultimate adventure on wheels.
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Do: Consider Your Travel Companions – If you’re heading out with family (especially with young children or senior adults), you’ll want to arrange for shorter drive days with more frequent stops, ending your day in the late afternoon rather than driving late into the evening. Choose hotels that will be a welcome destination after hours in the car. Consider family-friendly brands that offer hotels with pools, hot tubs or waterslides. With a shorter drive day, you can arrive with time to relax and enjoy the hotel amenities to the fullest.
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Don’t: Put Off The Research – Particularly as we enter a post-pandemic travel environment, pre-planning is key to a successful trip. Having an idea of what to expect on your journey will help ease stress and remove potential frustrations or sources of conflicts among your travel cohort. Consider local and state health protocols, what businesses are open and if they have modified hours, what kind of payment is accepted, etc. Looking for hotel and destination inspiration? Check out Best Western’s helpful travel portal.
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Do: Be Aware That Some Things May Have Changed – Many things are different these days, and that includes some of the services and amenities you’ve come to expect when traveling. For example, daily housekeeping services at many hotels are often not standard at this time. You can call to request additional linens or garbage pick-up, though the housekeeping staff may not be permitted to enter your room daily for standard service. Check with your hotel in advance so you’ll know what to expect.
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Don’t: Skip Rest Or Scenic Stops – When it comes to safety and enjoyment on a road trip, there’s no overstating the importance of rest. Give yourself the time to stretch your legs, relax your eyes, enjoy a snack and a necessary “nature break”!It’s recommended to stop every 2-3 hours when driving for an extended period.
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Don’t: Text and drive – Few things are as dangerous on the road as a distracted driver, and texting can be an especially nefarious diversion, responsible for thousands of accidents every year. Put your phone down and consider using the Do Not Disturb feature when behind the wheel. After all, only a safe trip is a fun trip.
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Do: Leverage Loyalty Programs For Added Value – Many attractions, restaurants, gas stations and hotels offer loyalty programs. Find the programs that are right for you and make sure your loyalty pays off, for example by planning hotel stays and other stops along your route with just one brand – by the end of your trip, you’ll have enough points for an excellent reward! The Best Western Rewards program is free to join, and allows members to earn points that never expire and are redeemable for free night stays and more.
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Don’t: Forget The Snacks – Stock up on everyone’s favorite snacks and drinks for an easy way to stick to any budget and minimize time restraints. Americans’ current favorite car snacks include cookies and chips, followed distantly by a menu of fruits and veggies! And remember masks: as you travel outside your local area, Covid protocols may change. Attractions, restaurants, stores and hotels may require masks and other health and safety measures.
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Do: Consider Breakfast – Did you know breakfast is the most skipped meal of the day, with 58% of Americans opting out? Don’t miss out on a good start, particularly when preparing for a day of driving. Look for hotels that offer breakfast – either complimentary continental or in an on-site restaurant. If you’re planning an early departure, many hotels now offer a Grab ‘n’ Go option.
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Do: Remember The Dog! – Many pets found new homes over the past year, as people looked for companionship and comfort during lockdowns and quarantines. With the prevalence of road trip travel this spring and summer, rest assured you can bring your four-legged friend along, with many hotels offering pet-friendly rooms. Consider bringing your pet’s bed as well as a favorite toy or blanket, so they feel right at home.
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Do: Get a $20 Best Western Gift Card For Each Night After You Stay – Register Before You Stay! Best Western Rewards® members who register and stay between September 13 and November 22, 2021 at any Best Western® branded hotel in the United States, Canada or the Caribbean will get one $20 Best Western Gift card for each night they stay, up to 5 nights. Gift Cards will be sent electronically to the Best Western Rewards member’s email address approximately 1-2 weeks after the completed stay. Limit 5 gift cards. Best Western gift card(s) expire on March 31, 2022.*
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