Road trips are great bonding experiences and to clear your mind. Whether you are going on a family road trip, friends, or taking it solo check out these preparation tips. As fun as it is to jump in your car and hit the freeway spontaneously, it’s essential to prepare yourself and your vehicle before.
Make sure to have a reliable GPS source, even if you plan on just driving with no destination planned. Smartphones have built-in GPS systems, but some areas have little to none service. It’s always smart to have a psychical map, how old school, but you’ll be thankful when you’re stranded with a dead phone. Also, check the weather conditions before the drive. You don’t want to be surprised with a snowy mountain pass, and you didn’t pack your snow chains.
An excellent way to prepare for any situation that might occur on a road trip is to have some form of roadside assistance to rescue you. You can’t predict what issues might happen during the drive so its very handy to have a service you can call to come to assist you. Prepare and pack an emergency kit including first aid. Not all instances will require roadside assistance, like a flat tire. Have your car jack, lug wrench, and spare tire easily accessible. It’s also a great idea to have a tire gauge handy and to use it at stops along the way. Pack your jumper cables and a few tools to ensure that you are prepared for any situation. If your trip is during the winter season, it’s brilliant to pack a winter weather condition kit. Include things like warm clothes, blankets, food, water, flashlights, flares, and anything else necessary for survival.
Don’t forget the snacks! It’s a road trip, it’s the time to indulge yourself in all your favorite snack foods. Go to the store a day or two before, pick out what food and water you want to bring along, so you don’t have to pull over more than you need to. It also helps to pack your car the night before, have a good meal, and get a full night’s rest. You will wake up ready to go and take on the road. Make sure to have fun, it’s a road trip. This is the time childhood memories are formed, bonds are made, and unforgettable stories.
One of the most important things to do before a road trip is to visit an automotive shop. You should at least get your oil changed in preparation for the long drive ahead. The mechanic will also check all of the fluid levels and top them off. It’s also good to get your tires checked because you don’t want to blow a tire two hours into the drive. Don’t forget to get your spare tire checked too! Overall, you want to make sure your vehicle is roadworthy and reliable. Foreign Affairs Auto has your back on this part of the road trip preparation. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online. We are here for you!
