Many traveling professionals state that the only best way to have the authentic travel experience is on the road. Furthermore, traveling experiences are not really complete until the ultimate road trip has been done.
If you have been dreaming about hitting the open road as a freeing adventure, do not let any fear or circumstance get in the way. However, unforeseen incidents and poor preparation can quickly turn a dream journey into a nightmare. Whether it’s a day-trip or weeklong travels, it is key to ensure the vehicle’s performance and reliability. This way, you can be prepared for any road circumstance ahead.
The following modifications or add-ons are thought with a safety-focused and enhanced vehicle performance mindset. Those will transform your vehicle into a traveling mansion, or at least a safe and cozy method of transportation.
Depending on your final destination, the road itself, and the travel length, some vehicle modifications are more essential than others. From complex and costly processes to simple but helpful adjustments, the following ten modifications promise to become a helpful guide on the path of turning your next adventure into the most memorable road trip ever.
1. An Essential One: Tires and Wheels
Price: From $150 to $2500
A great set of high-performance tires will guarantee the overall travel experience. Accelerating, braking, and cornering depend directly on the tire’s response. Tires are vital and even a costly pair of custom wheels is worth the investment. Weather conditions and road surfaces can be vastly different depending on your final destination. Make some quick research and find a pair suitable to your needs.
2. Quality Seats and Harnesses
Price: From $35 to $350
Although racing seats are not supposed to be comfortable, coziness is a very subjective opinion. Concerning performance, these seats cut off a significant amount of weight. It means car performance will increase and overall weight will decrease. Moreover, these seats offer a safe ride, since its harnesses hold you in a supportive way that allows driving precise and fast response. This is especially useful while driving in harsh environments and unpaved roads. However, racing seats are not the only alternative. Auto conversion professionals can enhance your driving experience with a higher level of comfort for long travels or disabilities. From raising seat height adjustments and foldable armrests to pressure care inserts, features can be added according to your needs.
3. A Lighter Vehicle
Price: $0 to +$1000
It is known that smaller and lighter vehicles are certainly more fuel-efficient. Lighter vehicles not only reduce traveling expenses by decreasing fuel costs but also improve handling and performance. Given the fact that fuel efficiency improves above 2% for every 100 pounds removed, weight reduction mods should not be overlooked.
This can be a complex process but it guarantees MPG improvement. Some free DIY projects can be removing the air conditioning compressor or stripping out the interior of your vehicle. Even switching to a lighter battery will improve performance. However, other adjustments such as lighter body panels, polycarbonate windows, and lighter custom wheels can be highly costly.
4. Brake System
Although the brake system is enormously important, it is commonly neglected. It is key to get a proper set of brake pads according to your driving style. A malfunctioning and old brake system can be dangerous and life-threatening under certain scenarios. Changing your car’s rubber brake lines to a stainless steel set will completely change your brakes’ response and assure all-time reliability.
If you’re leaving for a long road trip, inspecting and maintaining your car’s braking system beforehand is always a good idea. Furthermore, if you plan on hauling a camping trailer, you could also think about installing performance brake pads and drilled rotors. An upgraded braking system will not only reduce your car’s braking distance but the components will also last longer.
5. EV Conversion Kit
Price: $900 to +$10,000
Another modification to reduce fuel consumption is getting a complete EV conversion kit. Turning hybrid or full electric is the most dramatic improvement you can make to your vehicle. It is mandatory to research and find your vehicle-specific kit since universal electric conversion kits are usually inefficient. Although at a first look it can seem too expensive or complicated, this investment translates into lifetime savings on fuel, not just for the travel.
6. Travel Gear
Price: $150 to $350
Your storage method must be efficient and safe. Add-ons for support equipment should also allow quick access to essential items. A bit of great advice for useful storage is Pelican products. Its cases work both for a campout and for longer travel. A drawer system can also provide countless benefits for practical storage arrangements.
7. Safety First
Price: $35 to $100
Security practices should never be considered as an excess. From installing a fire extinguisher to a first aid kit, all passive and active measures needed should be taken. This is especially significant for harsh environments or developing countries in which safety is compromised.
A steering wheel lock, tainted glasses, starter interrupt, and any other security modifications are always a great idea for keeping your assets safe while traveling. Smart cars need added cybersecurity protection against hacks and for ransomware prevention.” with the anchor word being ransomware prevention.
8. Light the Road
Price: $55 to $650
Enhancing visibility for ruthless weather changes like fog or rain is a smart decision. Moreover, preparing for nighttime riding with a set of high-quality auxiliary lighting set for both forward and reverse driving and camp illumination is the greatest call. Keep in mind you should have at least a reading lamp for the cabin to be able to read maps and other tasks without compromising drivers’ views.
9. Impact Protection
Price: $50 to $1500
The final destination and the road there can be hazardous. It can become crucial to protect the vehicle from unforeseen accidents with animals on the road and other scenarios. Skid plates protect steering, transmission, and other components from impact against surfaces. Front bumpers or brackets shield the headlights and radiator from direct impact. Furthermore, both items safeguard passengers.
10. Get Some LSD
Price: +$500
Boosting your vehicle performance with a limited-slip differential or LSD upgrade will allow faster cornering. This translates into a more efficient engine output and maximizing traction. This is a great solution for heavy loads and low grip conditions environments.
Traveling is more than an activity; it is an opportunity for adventure. However, it is crucial to plan and make the trip enjoyable despite unforeseen situations. The many options above comprehend several budgets and projects. Any of those tips have both their benefits and drawbacks. Regardless of the budget for mods above, a good traveler will hit the highway and enjoy the path toward the final destination no matter the cost.
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