A festive season trip is an incredible way to celebrate the season with your loved ones. Ideally, with the long weekend and many days oﬀ approaching, a road trip is a perfect option for travelling with your family, allowing you to bond, share joy, and create lasting memories together. If you're considering going on one this time, here's an easy guide on how to plan a road trip this season.

1. Choose a destination and plan your itinerary

Start by selecting a destination that aligns with your interests. It's a good idea to choose a destination that isn't too far away for your ﬁrst road trip. You should research your destination thoroughly to create an itinerary that includes must-visit attractions, local festivities, and special events. Planning your activities ensures you make the most of your trip.

For those who wish to skip this hassle, the Mappls KOGO app is a great solution. The all-in-one travel platform's AI Trip Maker helps users pick a destination based on their interests and budget, and it generates comprehensive, personalized itineraries within seconds. These itineraries include routes, accommodations, experiences, restaurants, and attractions, all bookable at competitive prices.

2. Choose a vehicle

Decide if you're using your vehicle or renting one. While it depends on the number of passengers, the terrain you'll encounter, and your budget, having a car is usually a preferred choice. Not only is it a convenient mode of travel, but it is also safe in case of weather or other uncertainties.

Renting self-drive vehicles has been a very popular option amongst youngsters lately. Service providers such as IndusGo, ZoomCar, and Revv offer a range of well-maintained, clean, and insured cars that suit one's needs to ensure a hassle-free road trip experience.

3. Book accommodation

During the festive season, popular destinations can become crowded. It's advisable to book your accommodation in advance to ensure you have a place to stay without paying hiked prices. Online OTAs, depending on your budget and location, can list a wide range of lodging options, including resorts, hotels, hostels, guesthouses, or even unique holiday rentals such as BnBs.

4. Pack your essentials and check you documents

Packing for a road trip is a balance of practicality and holiday spirit. It's extremely important to pack essentials like clothes, toiletries, a ﬁrst-aid kit, and any speciﬁc items you'll need for the destination you plan to visit. If traveling with family or kids, you can also carry easy-to-play travel games for fun. Simultaneously, ensure that you have all your travel documents, including your Aadhaar, driver's license, vehicle registration, and any permits needed for speciﬁc regions. It's generally advised to keep soft copies of all these important documents to be safe in case of theft or loss.

5. Know and respect the local customs

Before starting your trip, it's important to acquaint yourself with the local customs and traditions of your chosen destination. Respect should be shown adhering to appropriate attire and behaviors, particularly if you intend to partake in local festivities. Be mindful of varying religious and cultural practices, and interact with the local community with cultural sensitivity and awareness.

6. Ensure safety

Safety is of great importance on any trip. Before leaving, one should check for the vehicle's brakes, tires, and engine. A ﬁrst-aid kit, emergency tools, and a spare car phone charger should be carried. It is also advised to plan your routes and have a downloaded map or GPS navigation system with you.

7. Explore and enjoy

While it's important to have a well-planned itinerary, don't forget to leave room for spontaneity. Take breaks to appreciate the picturesque landscapes and savor the simple pleasures of the road. You can embrace the spirit of adventure and be open to unexpected discoveries. Exploring local markets, trying regional dishes, and engaging with the locals will help you truly immerse yourself in the festive ambiance and make the most of the trip.