1,500+ Mile Tesla Road Trip: Tips and Insights for Your Next Adventure
As electric cars continue to gain popularity, it's no surprise that more and more people are considering taking a road trip in one. That's exactly what we did when we embarked on a 1,500+ mile journey in our Tesla. Today, we're sharing our thoughts and tips for next time.
Planning
By taking the time to prepare and plan ahead, you can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable road trip in your electric vehicle. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
Plan your route: Before hitting the road, research your route and identify the locations of charging stations along the way. You can use a variety of resources such as electric vehicle charging apps, navigation systems, and online maps to find charging stations that are compatible with your vehicle.
Check charging station availability: While you're researching charging stations, be sure to check their availability. Some stations may be out of service or have long wait times, especially during peak travel periods. Plan ahead and have a backup charging plan in case your first choice is not available.
Adjust your driving habits: To extend your vehicle's battery life, adjust your driving habits. For example, drive at a moderate speed and avoid sudden accelerations or hard braking. Use your vehicle's energy-saving features, such as regenerative braking, and if you are pushing for a few extra miles, avoid using power-hungry features like air conditioning.
Pack accordingly: Be sure to pack snacks, drinks, and entertainment options to make the journey more comfortable. Consider bringing a cooler to keep drinks and perishable snacks cold. You may also want to bring a charging cable, just in case.
Familiarize yourself with your vehicle: Before hitting the road, familiarize yourself with your vehicle's charging capabilities and features. Know how long it takes to charge your vehicle and how far you can travel on a full charge. This will help you plan your route and charging stops more efficiently.
Comfort
One of the benefits of driving an electric vehicle on a road trip is that charging stops can also serve as an opportunity to take a break and stretch your legs. While some may view charging stops as an inconvenience, they can actually make the journey more enjoyable and convenient.
Unlike traditional gas stations where you simply fill up and go, charging stations often require a longer stay. This gives you the opportunity to take a break, grab a snack or meal, and stretch your legs while your car charges. Some charging stations are even located near restaurants or shopping centers, giving you the chance to explore the area and make the most of your stop.
Additionally, taking breaks every few hours is important for your health and well-being, especially on a long road trip. It can help prevent fatigue, stiffness, and other discomforts that can come with sitting in a car for extended periods of time. By combining charging stops with these breaks, you can recharge both your car and your body.
In fact, some Tesla charging stations are strategically located near popular attractions or scenic areas, making it easy to combine a charging stop with a short hike or other outdoor activity. This can add an extra element of adventure to your road trip and help you make the most of your journey.
Choosing the best charging stations
When choosing a charging station for your electric vehicle, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the charging station is compatible with your vehicle. Different vehicles have different charging ports and requirements, so be sure to double-check before you plug in.
Next, as mentioned previously, check the charging speed and availability. Some charging stations may be slower than others, or may not be available due to maintenance or repair issues. Researching charging station availability ahead of time can help you avoid any unexpected delays or issues.
You may also want to look for charging stations that offer additional amenities, such as restrooms, food options, or comfortable seating areas. This can make your charging stop more comfortable and convenient, especially if you plan to take a break or grab a meal.
Finally, it's a good idea to read reviews of charging stations from other electric vehicle owners. This can give you insight into the reliability and quality of the charging station, as well as any issues or challenges that other drivers have encountered. For instance, as mentioned in our previous blog, we recommend avoiding the Richfield, UT Supercharger since there are no nearby amenities, and the charging speed is often slow.
By doing your research and choosing charging stations carefully, you can help ensure a smooth and stress-free road trip in your electric vehicle.
Conclusion
In conclusion, embarking on a long road trip in an electric vehicle can be a rewarding and exciting experience. However, it requires some extra planning and preparation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. From researching your route and charging station availability to adjusting your driving habits and packing accordingly, there are many things you can do to make your road trip more comfortable and convenient. And by taking advantage of the many benefits of electric vehicle travel, such as reduced emissions and lower fuel costs, you can explore new destinations while also doing your part to protect the environment.
So, whether you're planning a cross-country adventure or a weekend getaway, we hope that these tips and recommendations will help you make the most of your electric vehicle road trip. Happy travels!
