Summer can be the perfect time to take off on a road trip. Whether you’re headed to a picturesque destination or to a family reunion, the journey can be as fun as the destination. Before starting the journey, there are steps you can take in preparation to ensure that there are as minimal bumps in the road as possible.
If your road trip is an hour or ten hours, you can benefit from these road-trip tips. We’ve gathered some of the most important things to keep in mind, double check and prepare for.
When it comes to preparing your vehicle for a road trip, there is a host of things that should be double checked or replaced. But don’t worry, even if it seems overwhelming, we’re here to walk you through it.
- Double check the performance of your air condition and replace your cabin air filter.
- Look under the hood to inspect the condition of any rubber belts or hoses. If any obvious signs of wear or damage are found, get them replaced.
- Top off all fluids, coolant, power steering, brake and windshield washer. If any leaks are discovered, have them fixed.
- If it’s been a while since your last oil change, your oil levels are low or if you’re nearing the time for an oil change, get this taken care of.
- Check all lights on your vehicle to ensure they are working properly. If any need to be replaced, whether interior or exterior, get the bulbs replaced.
- Take a look at your windshield wipers. Inspect them for any damage or wear and tear. If you noticed they were not performing properly during the last rainy day, take the time to replace them before you hit the road.
- Have a mechanic check your car battery life and the charging system. If necessary, get it repaired or replaced.
- Inspect your tires for any visible damage, tread height and tire pressure. Tire tread should be above 2/32 of an inch. Ideal tire pressure varies car to car, check your car’s owner manual or the sticker on the inside of your driver door to learn to correct PSI for your vehicle.
Now that your car is in tip-top shape, it is time to focus on what you pack into your car to prepare for any situation and to make your life easier down the road. Things to add to an emergency car kit include:
- An extra cell phone or satellite phone and appropriate chargers
- A first aid kit
- A flashlight
- Jumper cables
- A tire pressure gauge and portable tire air pump
- A jack, extra tire and tire changing tools
- Extra oil and windshield washer fluid
- Basic repair tools and duct tape
- Road flares and reflectors
- Physical maps
- Extra blankets and coats (even in the summer, it can get cold at night. Better to be prepared)
- Nonperishable food and water
Even though your car is now stocked with everything you could need in an emergency, in addition to being in tip-top shape, there are still other preparations to be made. Planning a road trip involves more than just picking a destination. While that can seem like the most important aspect, how you are going to get there is important too.
- While planning you driving route, check for construction or weather implications.
- Print out directions and familiarize yourself with the path, even if planning to use GPS.
- If driving through other states, familiarize yourself with their state laws. Some states have different driving laws and procedures. Knowing these beforehand helps to eliminate confusion while driving.
- Share route and arrival times with others in the traveling party as well as anyone else who will be at the destination.
- If there are passengers under the age of 13, ensure they are sitting in the back of the vehicle, correctly buckled in and sitting in a car seat or booster seat if their age or weight requires it based on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regulations.
- Every passenger should buckle up, no matter their age or where in the vehicle they are sitting.
- Before backing out, walk around the vehicle to ensure there is nothing forgotten on the ground and no children hidden by the vehicles blind spot.
- Never leave children alone and unattended in a vehicle. Especially a non-running car. Temperatures inside a vehicle climb to dangerous levels quickly.
- Take breaks, stretch, rest during gas fill ups or mealtimes and swap drivers if feeling drowsy.
- Never talk or text while driving. The best part of road trips is your copilot can also double as your secretary, answering calls or texts for you. Or wait until the vehicle is stopped and in park.
- Follow all road laws and speed limits. Drive safe, not recklessly.
- Drive sober. Never get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Arriving safe is more important than arriving quickly. Proper planning allows for adequate time to reach your destination and accounts for stops for gas, meals, rest and potential traffic or car issues. Ensuring your car is in safe working order, having a comprehensive emergency kit, proper planning and safe habits will make the trip more enjoyable and less stressful.
Another layer of protection for you and your family during a summer road trip is auto insurance. Farm Bureau Insurance offers auto insurance fit to all of your needs and coverage interests. Contact an agent today to learn more and ensure you are properly covered for all of summer’s adventures!