Figuring out how to get ready for your next adventure? We’ve got some ideas to share about safely exploring beautiful BC. Whether you’re headed to the Kootenays, the Sunshine Coast, or even heading up the Alaska Highway, here are some tips to help keep the focus on fun.
Are you a super spontaneous traveller or a meticulous planner? Whether you have a week, or a day on the open road, there are some great resources dedicated to planning the ultimate road trip in BC and mapping your journey in a way that fits with your personal travel style. One of the incredible things about our province is it’s possible to pack so much into one adventure. It’s not unheard of to swim, hike, mountain bike, soak in a hot spring, and go wine tasting all in one day. Once you’ve figured out the type of trip you’d like to take, and which sort of sights you’d like to see along the way, take a little time to prepare for the unexpected. After all, what epic road trip has ever gone exactly as planned?
Packing Personal Items
One simple but important guideline for travelling in BC: be ready for any type of weather, year round. This usually means getting familiar with the art of layering your clothing. Having a long-sleeved, but lightweight top or sweater is handy when a hot day along the coast is followed by a cool, damp night. Ditto with umbrellas and rain gear when a sudden shower hits. If you tend to forget an important thing or two when travelling, use our handy packing checklist to avoid going without when the nearest store is hours away.
Securing Your Home
For added peace of mind while you’re on the road, take a few steps to secure your home and make it less obvious to potential burglars that you’re away. Don’t forget to arm your alarm system if you have one, or even have a trusted friend or family member keep an eye on things while you’re gone. If you know you’ll be away for a while, here’s our even more detailed guide to leaving your home unattended.
What to Bring in the Vehicle
A well-stocked emergency kit is a must-have, including ample water. If your trip takes you into more remote parts of BC, it’s worth bringing some water-purification tablets just in case (also handy for impromptu camping). Although cell phones and GPS are great tools, you won’t always have coverage, so a printed road map is a must. Make sure you have a spare tire and jack, emergency blankets, first-aid kit, and extra gasoline. Assorted camping gear, like a tent, sleeping bags, and camp stove are great whether you have a campsite reservation, or in the unlucky case that your vehicle breaks down. As you enjoy the journey, you’ll of course want to have plenty of snacks, picnic gear, and a cooler for perishable items and cold drinks. Keep things clean with hand wipes and a garbage bag for disposing of trash. Have some spare change and cash on hand for the occasional roadside pit stop at places where plastic isn’t accepted. Get a few good playlists together, and you’ll be energized wherever you go. Finally, make sure you have your driver’s license and a copy of your auto insurance policy with you.
Before You Go
Avoid an unpleasant or dangerous surprise–before you hit the open road, check with Transportation BC and make sure there are no mudslides, washouts, or wildfires affecting the area where you’ll be driving. You can also find out if there are any road closures in effect by having a quick look at Drive BC.
From the team at Johnston Meier Insurance, happy adventuring, and safe travels this summer!
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