Road trips. This long-standing tradition of summer is either the thing that makes you want to drive off of the next bridge or the best time of your life. There’s not a lot of in between with the road trip. But what is it that makes the difference? Preparation. While some people can hop in the car and go and still have a fantastic time, that’s simply not what happens for most. If you take just a moment to consider the details, your trip will be one for the books.

1.Your Passengers

The first thing to think about before you head out on the open road is who will be going with you. Is this going to be a family road trip? Are you traveling with your best friends? Maybe you’re heading across the state with the guys from the office.

Who you are traveling with will factor into each of the rest of the decisions you’ll be making. Ponder it for a moment. While the Grand Canyon may be the perfect family destination, it may not be the hot spot for you and your single friends. Vegas sounds like a great idea, but it may not be the right choice if you’re road-tripping with your fiancé.

2.Your Destination

Where are you going to go? Now that you’ve decided who will be riding along with you, it’s time to decide where you’ll take them. When you decide where you’ll end up, you’ll need to figure out how you’ll get there. Do you want to take the direct route or do you want to take your time getting there? You may enjoy making pit stops along the way, whether it’s at cheesy roadside attractions or major tourist points. Whatever you do, don’t wing it. There’s nothing that says you have to stick to your itinerary every second of the day, but you should have at least a general idea of how you’ll be getting where you’re going.

3.In-Flight Entertainment

No, you’re not flying but, when you think about it, a plane ride is numbingly dull without entertainment. You’ll be driving; your passengers will be riding. You’ll be in cramped quarters for hours upon hours; you better bring the entertainment. If you’re bringing kids along, pack a portable DVD player or hand over your tablet. Kids kept busy are quiet. Trade off choosing the radio station with your adult passengers. No matter what you do, skip the sing alongs. Very few people enjoy your voice as much as you do.

When you’re planning on what you’ll bring along to keep your traveling companions happy, consider packing a couple of coolers. The more people in your car, the more likely you’ll experience cries of “I’m hungry” at different times. With coolers on board, you won’t be forced to stop at every rest area and drive-thru along your route. Chopped veggies, energy bars, yogurt, crackers, cereal and bottles of water should be stocked and stocked well.

4.Your Ride

When was the last time your car got a bit of TLC? If you’re the type of person that ignores regular maintenance, you better change your tune. There is literally nothing that will ruin your trip faster than being stranded on the side of the road with pairs of eyes boring into your skull, blaming you for the current misfortune.

Before you leave on your vacation, give your car the attention it deserves. Make sure that your oil is changed, your fluids are topped off, your brakes aren’t holding on by the skin of their teeth, and your tire pressure is where it needs to be. You should also make a quick call to your insurance agent and confirm that you’ve got the coverage you need. It may seem like a no-brainer, but your car can make or break your trip.

If you’re getting ready for a road trip, you better start planning. Your trip along the highways is either going to be the best vacation you’ve had or one that you never want to talk about. The good news is this: The success of your road trip is up to you. Why not make it the best time of your life? If you follow the tips above, you’re sure to not only have a fantastic holiday, but you’ll gain the adoration of your passengers as well.

Author: Amy Thomson is a blogger for Monkey Car Insurance, a leading UK car insurance comparison site. Follow her on Twitter @VroomVroomAmy.