I’ve never formally been on a chase trip, but am thinking this year is the year that I take a few days off work and do it.

I AM a trained spotter, have a good understanding of storm development and structure, and know how to read radar. I feel that I know enough to stay safe, and that’s what’s most important to me. I am NOT interested in core punching a supercell, or driving 90 MPH and putting myself and other people at risk. I just pretty much want to roll the dice on seeing something cool, taking some pictures, and making some memories along the way.

I have several vehicles, but nothing I’d consider reliable enough to drive out there and back from Kentucky. I’ll likely rent a fuel sipper compact car, spring for the optional insurance to the hilt, and not breathe a word about storm chasing.

The reason for my post here, is to get a refresher about some basic chaser etiquette, ham radio frequencies, best times of the year, and some tips to make the most of my roadtrip. What things have been game changers for you? What tips can you offer someone who’s never actually chased?

When you’re up at 4AM at the hotel, looking for an area to target, what do you look for in SPC forecasts and data? Is there a better source of data than SPC? What do you use for mobile radar? GRLevelX on a laptop and hotspot? RadarScope App? RadarOmega App? What other apps/websites are beneficial?