Enhancing Comfort and Functionality on The Road
Driving long distances can create cramps, swelling, and painful joints. Additionally, it’s mentally exhausting because of the attention you must pay on the road and other drivers. Therefore, it’s wise to take certain precautions to mitigate the effects, including:
Adjusting the seat
Make sure that you’re comfortable in the seat and that you can easily reach the pedals with your feet and the manual controls with your hands. Many late-model vehicles have power-adjusted seats, so it’s easy to find that perfect position. Your heels should rest comfortably on the floor, and you can reduce stress by working the pedals with either the balls of your feet or your toes.
Having Enough to Drink and Upon Which to Snack
Remaining hydrated helps your body stay relaxed, which will help you avoid the cramps that come from sitting in the same position for such a long time. It’s also a good idea to bring energy bars along for tiding you over between meals. Just in case, having enough to snack on and drink means that you should have a reserve on board.
Stop Regularly
Most long highways have rest stops of one kind or another. Some of them will just be parking lots with a vault toilet while others will be expansive and include restaurants, full restrooms, convenience stores, and even tourist information centers. Stretch your arms and legs. Get something to eat. Maybe, you can even take a short walk.
Wear Comfortable Clothes
While you’re on the road, it’s important to wear clothes that don’t constrict you. If it’s warm, then a T-shirt and shorts with comfortable sandals is a good driving outfit. In cases of cool or cold weather, wear warm clothes that breathe. When the car heats up, you can remove your coat and be relaxed without overheating.
Plan on How to Enjoy Yourself
There are many ways to amuse yourself on a long drive, including audio books, podcasts, and playlists. A lot of cars produced in recent years have Wi-Fi hotspots for your devices, too, so if you stop at a rest stop, then you can watch a program or a movie. If you happen to have satellite radio, too, then you can listen to old-time radio programs, get the latest news updates, or listen to your favorite music channels.
Pay Attention to Your Body
No matter how long the drive will be, you must realize when you’re in pain, sleepy, or needing to eat. “Powering through” is never a good idea. If you’re tired, then pull over to sleep even if you have to get a motel room. If you need more than a snack, then stop to eat something. Energy is important on the road.
Vehicle Features That Make Long Drives More Palatable
Aside from the aforementioned power seats, the most important thing for a comfortable ride is the vehicle’s suspension. The more advanced the suspension, the better. Advanced systems will lessen road imperfections. Be sure that you have the right tires that go with your vehicle’s suspension too. Having a vehicle with adequate noise insulation will help with the mental stress of a long drive.
