When it’s time to chase down some freedom, there’s no better way than a road trip. The only thing better than a road trip is a solo road trip. Hitting the road on your own time means that you do whatever you want. Stop when you want, eat when you want, listen to whatever you want, and sightsee when you want. You don’t have to accommodate anyone but yourself. There is freedom in that, and it’s worth capturing. But before you hit the road, you should make several preparations. Use these essential safety tips for a solo road trip so yours doesn’t turn into a nightmare.

Tell Someone Your Route

Being alone and doing something solo is great and all, but you must let someone know where you are going and how you plan to get there. Telling your parents or brother that you are taking off for Sturgis, SD, won’t lessen your freedom. If something happens out there, they will be in a position to help you out if they know where you’re going. They can keep an eye on the news and let you know about a situation you might not be aware of during your jaunt.

Keep Your Mouth Shut

The world is a dangerous place, and there are criminals everywhere you go. It’s an unfortunate fact of life. When you stop somewhere along the way, don’t broadcast that you are from out of town and on your own. If the wrong person hears that, you quickly become a target. That’s not to say you shouldn’t talk to interesting people, just don’t be so open and forthcoming with personal information around strangers.

Have Multiple Maps

Smartphones are amazing and can do just about anything, including get you to any destination in the world. The limiting factor with them is that they are powered by batteries and dependent on good connections—something not always readily available in certain remote areas. If the battery dies and you can’t recharge the phone, or you cannot connect to the internet, what will you do? Bring along an old-school physical map and stick it in the glove box. The map doesn’t need charging or Wi-Fi and is always ready for use in a pinch.

Prepare the Vehicle

The last essential safety tip for a solo road trip is to make sure that your car or truck is road-ready and capable of getting you to the destination. Take to a mechanic and have them do a basic tune-up. They should change the oil and fluids, check the spark plugs, and check the tires at minimum. A broken-down car on the side of the road will ruin your trip really quick. Get your vehicle ready at RnR Tire Express tire shops in Florence, SC. Don’t take any chances on the road during your solo adventure.