Rest Stops

What Is A Rest Stop And Why Is It So Important

When traveling you may have noticed signs along the highway to various rest stops or maybe you have come across such a place via your map or GPS. But what exactly is it? How can visiting a rest stop affect your journey? Why exactly do you need to take a break at a rest stop?

Discover with us everything you need to know about rest stops, what they have to offer and why they are essential to any long journey so that you can head out onto the open road prepared and well-informed. 

Rest area vs rest stop

There has been some confusion between the interchangeably used wording of “rest stop” and “rest area” however, you can take comfort in knowing that these are exactly the same thing. These two expressions refer to a place along the main highway where you can refuel your car, take a break, stretch your legs and enjoy a host of other amenities.

Whilst the design and layout of these rest stops vary greatly, there is usually a complex of joined buildings that makes up a space where you can rest, recover and get ready to get back on the road with renewed energy. Some of these rest stops could even be likened to miniature malls

Common amenities you may need

To give you a good idea regarding some of the likely things you may find at a rest stop we have highlighted some of the most common amenities that you might come across when you visit one of these numerous rest areas. 

Bathrooms

One of the most frequent reasons why any car traveler needs to stop the car is because they or one of their passengers needs to use a restroom. Therefore to avoid any traumatic incidents along the road, it is important to be able to locate a valid rest stop so that all of the car passengers can rest easy and let themselves go when they need to. 

Free WIFI

Nowadays it is becoming common to have the internet on your phone, but if your battery dies out, your signal is failing you or the driver needs to be the one to use the phone then you may need to find a reliable spot with WIFI.

Whether you need to update your google maps, call someone via WhatsApp, or check something else, knowing where you can get free WIFI makes traveling all the easier. 

A space for your pet to roam

If you are traveling with your pets then they also need some time to be able to do their business. Some of the better rest stops include a grassy patch or park specifically for this purpose so that you can avoid any interior mishaps and so that your dog or cat gets the chance to alleviate themselves.

This also reduced traveling anxiety because once they have gone and done what they need to you won’t be constantly worried about what they might do in your vehicle. 

Somewhere to eat

Rest stops are notorious for their fast food chains and shops with their assortments of drinks and snacks. Every person on the road still needs to eat and drink and sometimes it’s nice just to be able to get out of the car and sit somewhere different. 

With a brief stop and a quickly prepared meal, you can return to the road, nourished, satisfied, and hydrated. 

Gas station

Possibly the reason you stopped here in the first place was that your car needed refueling. Since gas stations are not always visible from the highway you may need to check out the nearby rest stops. 

However, at the same time, you may as well enjoy some of the other amenities included. That way, you only have to stop once. 

Tourist information

Last of all, if you need information about the area or are looking for assistance, a rest stop is the best place for you to take a break and gather some details. Sometimes there is a dedicated area for tourist information but if not, the people who work here are still your best bet for local information. 

Why you should take the time to stop

The reality is that everyone is human and everyone needs to rest, eat and drink so that they can continue safely on their journey. It also gives your car a chance to cool down and anyone that is riding with you will also likely feel the need just to get out of the car, stretch their legs and take a break from a long day of travel. 

By going to a rest stop, you can be a safer driver as you get the rest you need, a more considerate conductor as you care for the needs of your passengers, and a more contented traveler as you enjoy the entire journey a lot more thanks to this rest, recovery and recuperation before you get back on the road.

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