Ultimate Europe Road Trip Planner: 9 Tips on how to travel by car with a group

What better way to create beautiful memories than to travel and discover the world together with friends by car? A group road trip in Europe is undoubtedly an exciting event for everyone, however, it is definitely easier said than done. Doing some prior organization can help prevent a lot of unnecessary stress and tension.

Good preparation is key so that everyone can enjoy the holidays as much as possible! Check out these top 9 tips and tricks to help you have a relaxed European road trip with your travel buddies.

1. Choose your destination together

Where to go? This decision is the first step to any holiday. The most important thing is to choose a destination that suits your preferences and desires. A little bit of research can solidify tourist attractions and museums worth the hype, identify the best restaurants and reveal local hidden gems. When travelling with other people, it is best to let everyone share their input and discuss the options. By doing this, you can guarantee that everyone is happy with the final decision.

If you're not looking to do what may feel like homework before a holiday, there are plenty of tools to help you find inspiration for your European road trip, such as this list for the best European road trips.

2. Safe first!

While most countries have removed their travel restrictions related to the Covid-19 Pandemic, it is important nonetheless to check the regulations present at your final and in between destinations to avoid any unnecessary hassle. Make sure to pack multiple facemasks and hand sanitiser, and have all necessary documents and tests ready.

If you or anyone in your road trip travel group has special medical or dietary needs, do some research and find out what you might need before going. Ask your doctor for advice! They are there to tell you what medication to pack if, for example, you get carsick a lot.

3. Plan your route

It is always a good idea to check beforehand where there are gas stations along the route to avoid running low on gas and to decide where you’d like a rest if you are planning a longer road trip with the group, or if you’ve simply run out of snacks.

Further, if you are travelling with an electric vehicle, check the locations of EV charging stations in advance.

4. Plan your arrival

Destination?... Check! Now all that's left to do is organize everything. When you are travelling in a group, make sure to divide the responsibilities and perhaps even set a deadline so that everyone knows what they need to do and nothing is left to last-minute settlements. Make sure to have a hotel or Airbnb booked, plan the fastest route to this destination and reserve your parking space in advance!

Through Mobypark, you can also easily find which parkings are equipped with EV charging stations. Simply activate the ‘electric charging station’ filter, and you will see a list of options available to you. Make sure to book your parking spot in advance to guarantee you have a spot when you arrive.

A well-prepared trip will allow you to make the most of your vacation and avoid unnecessary hassle.

5. Don’t overpack!

Especially if you're going by car with a group of people. You do not want to have to sit in an overpacked car or carry heavy loads from the car to your accommodation and back. Only take what you need. If you do forget something, you can always buy it at your destination. Use it as an opportunity to buy something made locally. If you're a little lost on what to pack as a group, don't panic! The internet has a multitude of lists to pack for a road trip that you can use as a guide.

Little piece of advice: Always bring a sweater! Don't be fooled by a "summer" destination where you’re expecting it to be hot! Even in the hottest countries, the indoors are cooled by AC, and at night temperatures can drop drastically.

Finally, communicate who in the group will bring what. What a waste it would be if you have four sets of speakers but no snacks.

6. Fun on the road!

It can get quite boring to be in the car for longer periods of time, so think of fun and amusing games to keep the group occupied! You could create a fun sing-along playlist, which will be great for dull moments on the road. If you want to go the extra mile, you can even make someone responsible for creating a personalised quiz, such as answering the question: “most likely to...”.

Additionally, you could check in advance if there are any fun attractions along the way that would be worth stopping for.

7. Bring snacks

"When do we eat?"... "I'm hungry!". You won't escape it! Especially on long trips. As it is not always possible to stop on the way, don't forget to bring bottled water and your favourite snacks!

8. Take breaks

A long journey on the road can be stressful for everyone. Decide on a schedule of who will drive when and take regular breaks at rest areas. You can anticipate your stops by checking, depending on your route, which rest areas are available.

Besides getting some fresh air and stretching your legs a little bit, you could also improvise a small picnic (if the weather is suitable) on the fresh grass. Or even get energised with a group activity such as playing soccer.

9. Relax and enjoy the group road trip

Organizing a road trip for a group can sometimes be a bit of a struggle. But do not forget that road trips should be fun. Keep in mind that you will never be able to plan everything down to the last detail, so leave a little room for unexpected things and spontaneity! Listen to the needs of your travel buddies.

Be flexible! Relax and enjoy! It's a chance to forget about the routine, let loose and create unforgettable memories. Have a great road trip!

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