Tips to Prepare for Your Road Trip to Colorado

A Road Trip to Colorado is Fantastic for many reasons:

1. You choose which amazing sights to see along the way.
2. It’s just you and your travel companions who can share the experience during the drive.
3. You can follow your itinerary. Pick your lodging or campsite.
4. Four National Parks, 42 State Parks, 11 National forests, 8.3 million acres of BLM, and five wilderness areas totaling 205,814 acres. All are waiting to be explored.
5. There are many mountain lakes and rivers to enjoy.
6. There are many summer outdoor activities to choose from.
7. There are lots of events happening, such as music festivals, art fairs, rodeos, and farmers’ markets. Check the events calendar.

Winter isn’t the best time to tour around the state
as mountain passes can be dangerous, but if you do opt for a winter road trip:
Make sure you have your Colorado winter driving survival kit in place.

Get Ready to Drive in Colorado

Preparation is key when you’re getting ready for your next road trip, besides identifying all the scenic, fun places you want to visit. Traveling Colorado’s highways and passes can be dangerous. Check local weather and view webcams for driving conditions. It’s also a good idea to check Colorado’s wildfire map. Make sure you have all-season clothing with you. Weather conditions at lower elevations can be delightful and warm. However, high-elevation conditions are often extreme, even during the warmest months of summer.

In the event you breakdown at high elevation, make sure you have:

• Warm clothing, hats, gloves, warm socks, and shoes (even in the summer).
• Extra blankets or sleeping bags.
• A camp kit that includes a stove (plus fuel), cups & plates, utensils…
• Extra food and water.
• A first aid kit.
• Bring maps in addition to your phone. Cell reception can be limited in the mountains.

Create a Plan for Your Trip

There is a lot to do in Colorado, and with 26 mountain towns, thousands of miles of trails for hiking and biking, and amazing sights, it will be easy to plan a route with things that interest you as you drive around the state. You don’t need an hour-by-hour itinerary, but a general plan will help your road trip go more smoothly. Staying aware is vital. Check Colorado’s Trip Map to see road construction, closures, and conditions. Or, download the app to stay up to date. However, due to the remote nature of Colorado’s roads, cell reception is limited. It’s best to bring along maps.

Of course, the perennial scout’s motto, “Be prepared,” doesn’t just apply to traffic and road conditions.

• Check out attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and other points of interest.
• Look for the many resources online.
• Trust locals when it comes to “must-see” attractions or places to visit or avoid
• Don’t forget to map your route and locate gas stations, rest stops, hotels, and other essential spots before you hit the road.

Check your Auto Insurance Policy

Before entering the driver’s seat, reviewing your auto insurance policy is also wise. U.S. News outlines insurance coverage requirements for each state, so you may want to compare your existing policy against these mandated minimums. If you’re still paying on an auto loan, you’ll need comprehensive and collision in addition to liability coverage.

Depending on your jurisdiction, you may also be subject to specific uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage rules. But even if your state doesn’t require it, it’s strongly recommended that you include it with your policy. Other items to consider are roadside assistance and rental reimbursement. If you find your current coverage and insurer lacking, you may want to search “auto insurance near me” and explore your options.

Make Sure Your Vehicle is Ready

Your vehicle should be in great shape before venturing onto the road. If you haven’t recently had a vehicle inspection, you need to do so in plenty of time before your departure. A standard maintenance checkup will include checking oil and coolant levels. NerdWallet explains that they may also involve checking hoses, air filters, belts, battery levels, tire tread depth, and inflation pressure. Depending on your vehicle’s maintenance benchmarks, you may need an oil and filter change or a tire rotation. Don’t forget about major maintenance services, especially for your brakes!

Have Your Proof of Insurance and Registration Handy

Unexpected events can be thrilling on a road trip, including breakdowns, collisions, or being stopped by law enforcement. Again, the saying “be prepared” applies. If you’re a responsible driver, you probably already have a copy of your vehicle’s registration in your glove box. Most states accept paper and electronic insurance cards. New Mexico is the only state that doesn’t, so don’t forget to obtain your ID card before leaving for your trip.

Don’t Forget Your Device Chargers

This tip may seem incredibly obvious, but it bears repeating. After all, you don’t want to be stuck on a backcountry road at night with a dead smartphone. Many restaurants and truck stops now have accessible plugs for charging devices, but charging yours before you leave is a good idea. Identify a trusted friend with whom you’ll periodically check in via voice or text, especially if you’re traveling alone.

There are many more ways to prepare for a road trip, but safety is essential. Ensuring that your vehicle’s in good shape, bringing all-season clothing and emergency gear, having a plan, keeping essential documents nearby, and charging your devices can save you headaches on the road.

By Mikkie Mills