Although every RVer will tell you that RVing is just as much about the journey as it is the destination, sometimes you just want to put as many miles on the odometer as possible each day, especially if you’re trying to get somewhere for something specific.
While this is understandable, it’s good to know your limits and to respect when you’ve driven enough in one day. That said, there are methods and tips that can help you safely get those extra miles behind you each day.
1. Start Strong
Make sure you get a good night’s rest. Eat something filling and don’t skip out on carbs for some energy. Try to start driving at first light so as to maximize your daylight driving. Driving during the day offers better visibility and is overall safer. Plus, the earlier you start the less traffic there is. This is especially important if you’re waking in or near a major city and want to avoid rush hour traffic.
2. Alternate Drivers
Chances are you’re not traveling alone. If you’ve got another person (or persons) in the RV who is comfortable behind the wheel, make a schedule that designates different shifts throughout the day. Taking a break is the best way to maximize your drive time, as it gives each driver a much needed pause to relax and refocus. In the process, neither driver will get burnt out.
3. Take Breaks
Don’t get anxious about stopping completely. If you need to get out and stretch your legs at a rest stop, it’s for the better. Taking a break helps you to refocus and keeps you alert. It’s easy to lose your concentration through road hypnosis, so stop for a moment if you need to. Think of it this way: would you drive further in one long, uninterrupted drive, or would you go further if you had your drive cut up into manageable segments?
4. Keep Yourself Entertained
Make sure you have a good music playlist on a mobile device or computer, rather than relying on local stations. You can’t guarantee local stations will cater to your tastes. Audiobooks are also great for passing the hours, especially if the book is lively and engaging. Fighting boredom will allow you to keep going, as the main reason people stop driving (after fatigue, of course) is simply because the monotony of driving became unbearable.
5. Stop When You’re Ready
By this, we mean to stop when your mind and body tell you it’s time. Don’t push yourself past exhaustion. You have to look at driving as a daily affair that may span several days. It’s all about pacing. If you push yourself too far the first day, you’ll be fatigued and unfocused the next and won’t go as far. If you stop when it’s time, get good rest, and keep your mind occupied, the miles will fall away behind you with ease.
Come Visit Lazydays RV
If you’re driving cross country, be sure to see us in Tampa or Tucson when you’re passing through. Lazydays RV offers visitors a huge range of new and used RVs and unparalleled maintenance services. Rest and recharge at our onsite resorts (sure to help you recharge for your next day of driving) and our RV Driving Confidence course can help you and your travel mates feel more confident behind the wheel.
