Road trips are the best. It’s a chance to get out there and see the world, all while jamming to your favorite playlists. However, you’ll have to stop for something sooner or later and that can be potentially dangerous. Here is what you need to know the next time you plan a road trip rest stop.
Beware. Rest Stops Are Known for Crime
Unfortunately, rest stops are a breeding ground for thieves, prostitution, drug dealers, and vandalism. Police have been known to be called there for drug deals gone wrong, attempted prostitution, and lots of robberies. Try investing in a rest stop app to avoid seedy areas.
They Are Not Very Clean
Additionally, if you lost your way on the trip or need a car repair, it may not have the best accommodations. Who knows when the last time the road trip rest stops were cleaned. It would be best to have a plan to stay at motel or hotel in case this happens on your trip.
Stay Out of the Parking Lot
If someone is hanging out in the parking lot of your road trip rest stop without an agenda such as:
- Cigarette Break
- Talking On the Phone
- Gassing Up Their Car
- Some Other Innocent Activity
There is a chance that they may have malicious intent and you do not want to take that risk. They could be out to steal, turn a trick, or initiate a drug deal. Try to spend as little time in the parking lot as you can.
Know Where You Are
If you absolutely have to stay a while in a seedy area, take note of its name and some kind of landmark, just in case authorities need to be called.
Grab What You Can
You are on a road trip, so grab what you can, while you’re there (food, gas, etc.). Just make sure to comb through the food carefully and only take what’s edible. The road trip rest stop is there for you to utilize its resources; you just have to be smart about it. Planning out your road trip and your road trip rest stops is essential for making the best use of your time, energy, and expenses. However, you must also remember that they are not always the safest of places. Remember to keep your wits about you and be smart while utilizing them.
If you enjoyed this head over to my 10 Must Visit Tourist Attractions In Edinburgh and How To Get Your Kids More Comfortable With Traveling
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