Top Road Trip Tips for Subaru Owners: Making the Most of Your Journey

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road in a Subaru. Whether you’re cruising through scenic landscapes or tackling rugged terrains, Subaru’s reputation for safety, reliability, and comfort makes it the ideal companion for any road trip. Known for its adventure-ready features, Subaru vehicles provide both families and outdoor enthusiasts with the confidence to explore.

In this article, we’ll share practical road trip tips for Subaru owners, ensuring you make the most of your journey. From pre-trip preparations to maximising your vehicle’s comfort and safety, we’ve got you covered with everything you need for an unforgettable road trip experience.

Preparing Your Subaru for the Road Trip

Proper preparation is essential for a smooth and safe road trip. Before you hit the road, it’s crucial to ensure your Subaru is in top condition. A well-maintained car is not only safer but more reliable, ensuring you’re ready for any journey.

Schedule a Subaru Road Trip Inspection

Book a Subaru service ahead of your trip to check the vital components of your vehicle. It’s important to check the brakes, tyres, oil, and fluid levels to avoid any issues while on the road. Regular maintenance ensures your Subaru is ready for anything, and our expert technicians can carry out diagnostics and checks to ensure you’re road-trip ready. Schedule your service booking here.

Pack Road Trip Essentials

When packing for your journey, don’t forget the essentials:

• Tyre inflator and spare wheel: Being prepared for any tyre issues is key.
• First-aid kit: Always a good idea to have for peace of mind.
• Basic tools: For small repairs or adjustments along the way.

Top Road Trip Tips for Subaru Owners

Maximising Comfort and Safety on the Drive

To ensure the most comfortable experience for you and your passengers, make use of your Subaru’s interior settings and driving technologies.

Adjust Your Subaru’s Interior for Long Drives

• Seat adjustment: Ensure everyone is comfortable by adjusting your seats to provide optimal support.
• Climate control: Take advantage of the air conditioning and heating settings to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout your trip.
• Infotainment settings: Set up your preferred playlists, podcasts, or navigation system before hitting the road.

Subaru’s Driving Technology

On long highway stretches, Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist makes driving easier by reducing fatigue. You can rely on features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to maintain a safe distance and stay centred in your lane, allowing you to enjoy the journey with less stress.

Road Trip Safety Tips to Keep in Mind

Plan for regular breaks every 2-3 hours to stretch your legs and stay refreshed.

• Avoid distractions by using Subaru’s Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls.
• Stay updated on road conditions and weather forecasts for a safe trip.

Tips for Long Drives: Reducing Driver Fatigue

• Share the driving duties with family or friends if possible.
• Use Subaru’s ergonomic features, such as adjustable seats and lumbar support, to stay comfortable.
• Stay hydrated and plan fuel stops at regular intervals to avoid fatigue.

Road Trip Tips for Families: Traveling with Kids

Keeping Kids Happy and Comfortable

Long trips can be challenging for kids, but Subaru has you covered with features to make their journey more enjoyable:

• Rear-seat USB ports for charging devices.
• Entertainment screens (if available) to keep kids entertained.
• Pack a small bag of road trip activities and snacks to keep them occupied during the drive.

Subaru’s Family-Friendly Features for Long Journeys

• Spacious interiors: There’s plenty of room for car seats, school bags, and snacks.
• Large cargo space for everything from luggage to sports gear.
• All-wheel drive (AWD) ensures safety and stability, even on uneven terrain.

Planning Stops for Family Fun

A long road trip with the family is the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories along the way, and planning family-friendly stops is key to keeping everyone entertained and refreshed. Here are a few tips to ensure you make the most of your journey:

1. Research Kid-Friendly Rest Stops
   Look for rest stops that offer more than just a place to stretch your legs. Some may have picnic areas, play zones, or walking paths that can provide a much-needed break for everyone. Stretching your legs and giving the kids a chance to burn off some energy will help make the journey more comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.
2. Parks and Nature Stops
   South Africa is home to beautiful natural landscapes, and stopping by a local park or nature reserve can be a great way to enjoy the scenery and allow the family to relax. Many parks offer hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and designated family-friendly picnic spots, providing both relaxation and adventure during your drive.
3. Attractions for the Whole Family
   Consider planning your route around attractions that everyone can enjoy, from family-friendly museums and interactive science centres to wildlife reserves and quirky roadside attractions. Research ahead of time to identify places of interest along your journey, and make sure they’re suitable for all ages.
4. Food Stops with a Twist
   Look for unique roadside eateries that offer local cuisine or fun dining experiences. Whether it’s a quirky café, a popular food truck, or a restaurant with a view, these stops can make for memorable meals and give everyone something to look forward to during the trip.
5. Rest Stops with Playgrounds
   Many towns and service stations now feature rest areas equipped with playgrounds for children, perfect for burning off some energy while parents can rest or grab a snack. These stops not only allow for physical activity but also provide a chance for social interaction with other travellers.
6. Make Use of Technology
   Plan your route and stops using online maps and apps that highlight points of interest, fuel stations, and restaurants along the way. Some apps even provide real-time information on the most kid-friendly stops to ensure you never run out of exciting options.

By strategically planning fun and engaging stops, your road trip will become much more than just a drive—it’ll be an adventure in itself. Not only will you break up the monotony of long hours on the road, but you’ll also give your family the chance to explore new places and enjoy quality time together.

Adventure-Ready: Tips for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Packing for Outdoor Adventures

Subaru vehicles are built for adventure. Use your car’s large boot space and roof racks to bring along all your camping gear, bicycles, or kayaks. You’ll have plenty of room to enjoy your favourite outdoor activities, no matter where your road trip takes you.

Make the Most of Subaru’s Off-Road Capabilities

With Subaru’s AWD system, you can confidently take on gravel roads and rough terrains. If your journey includes off-road adventures, make sure your Subaru is equipped with the right tyres for the job. The AWD system provides the traction and stability needed to handle all types of roads.

Advice for Road Trips: Staying Fuel-Efficient on Long Drives

How to Drive Efficiently to Reduce Fuel Consumption

Avoid idling for extended periods.

• Plan your route to avoid heavy traffic and maximise fuel efficiency.
• Reduce the weight in your vehicle by packing lightly and storing items properly.

Subaru Road Trip Safety: Trust the Experts

Why Subaru Is Your Partner in Road Trip Safety

With advanced features like EyeSight Driver Assist, adaptive headlights, and AWD, Subaru is designed to keep you safe on any journey. Subaru vehicles are known for their reliability and safety, making them a trusted companion for road trips.

Booking a Subaru Service Before Your Road Trip

To ensure your Subaru is in top shape for your road trip, book a pre-trip inspection at a Subaru service centre. Our trained technicians will check everything from the brakes to the safety features, giving you the peace of mind to enjoy the journey. Schedule your service appointment here.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What should I check on my Subaru before a road trip?
  Check the tyres, brakes, oil, coolant, lights, and ensure all safety features are functioning properly.
• How often should I take breaks during a long drive?
  It’s recommended to take breaks every 2-3 hours or whenever you feel fatigued.
• How can Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist help on a road trip?
  EyeSight reduces driver fatigue with features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, allowing for a more relaxed and safer journey.
• What Subaru features make long drives more comfortable?
  Subaru’s ergonomic seats, climate control, and spacious interiors ensure comfort for everyone on long trips. Additionally, the infotainment system offers entertainment options for the whole family.
• Can I book a pre-trip inspection at a Subaru service centre?
  Yes, you can schedule a comprehensive service to check everything from brakes to diagnostics at a Subaru service centre. Book now here.

Ready, Set, Go!

With these road trip tips in mind, you’re now equipped to make the most of your Subaru journey. Whether you’re exploring the scenic routes of South Africa or embarking on an off-road adventure, your Subaru’s safety features, comfort, and reliability will ensure a smooth ride every time.

Remember, a well-prepared car is key to a successful trip. Book a pre-trip inspection at your nearest Subaru service centre, and you’ll be ready to hit the road with confidence.

So, start planning your next adventure today, pack those essentials, and enjoy the open road knowing your Subaru is ready for whatever lies ahead. Safe travels!

For more tips and to book your service appointment, visit Subaru Service Booking.