Spring Breakers, rejoice! You’ve worked hard all year long, and now it’s time to head for a little vacay — whether that’s a beach getaway or heading up north to take advantage of the last snows of the season, it probably means you’re planning a road trip.  Keep in mind that many drivers have a similar idea, so the roads (along with any parties) will be crowded with other young drivers. And it’s likely their first (perhaps your first) long road trip — so brush up on important rules of the road. We’ve got you covered with our essential guide…

You only Spring Break once a school year so make this one for the ages. Beyond car keys, your car, and (hopefully) an awesome playlist to carry you through — there are a few road trip absolutes you must have for an open road adventure. See what to bring with you for smooth sailing on the roads by reading our Essential Road Trip Packing Guide.  

You know never to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after a night (day?) of drinking. But even if you never take a sip of alcohol, there can always be others who are not as responsible. Yes, even (especially) during Spring Break weekend when the party is going high. Protect yourselves on the road with 6 Ways to Defend Yourself Against Drunk Drivers.

“Always be prepared” — that’s the boy scout’s motto. It can be yours too. Find out what to always have in your car (particularly on a road trip, but even on a 5 minute jaunt down the street) by reading Your Car Emergency Kit, Explained. 

Yes, there’s always crowds in sunny hotspots like Daytona, Miami, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. But maybe you’re staying in state for Spring Break which will be a blast too.   Just remember the rules of the road aren’t always the same across state lines: research beforehand so you don’t have any surprises.  PRO TIP: Be just as aware of different weather conditions (and how that can affect your car) if you’re heading somewhere where it’ll feel like an insta-season change:  

• Car Air Conditioning: Maximize Your Cool Factor 

• 5 Essential Summer Car Care Tips 

• Car Thefts Spike in Winter: Don’t Leave Your Car Unattended 

• 5 Essentials: Winter Survival Emergency Kit

Maybe you pulled a bunch of all-nighters for your midterms right before heading out onto the open road… or maybe you blew off studying but aced your exams anyway. Regardless, you never want to operate a moving vehicle when you’re overtired. Drowsy driving can be just as bad as drunk driving or texting and driving. Get some sleep before you head out and be sure to also read 5 Ways to Avoid Distracted Driving. 

Driving on the highway can make your windshield grimier than regular street driving. Windshield wipers should be replaced, on average, about every 6-12 months. And if you’re coming from a cold, snowy climate (where wipers may become brittle or crack even faster), you want to take an extra look. By the way, if you’re heading out from a perennially sun-soaked… or rain-soaked… destination, you’ll also want to check them out as UV rays and rain can be just as damaging. Find out if it’s Time to Replace Your Windshield Wipers? 

 Spring Break gets costly, even if you’re sharing a room with all your best buds. Save money where you can with 9 Surprising Hacks to Save Money at the Gas Station. 

You’ve spent all year studying the books. Now you want to head off and study something… else. Your ride’s a big part of your dating life, see how it can help: Dating 101: How Can Your Car Drive Up Attraction? 

As always, empowered drivers are safer drivers, more thoughtful drivers, and more engaged drivers. Check out more helpful tips, including: 

• Break Up With Bad Driving Habits 

• Car Fires: Can It Happen To You? 

• Peak Deer Season: How to Prevent Collisions 

What are you waiting for? Join the ride and get a quote today to see how techno-driven coverage can lower your premiums.