(content by Anees S)
Road trips are an exciting way to spend your vacation with family and friends. However, it would be best if you planned well beforehand to avoid any hassle on the road. The first thing to take care of is to prepare your vehicle for a long trip across the country. If that goes good, you can surely return happy, smiling. Today, we will primarily discuss the crucial aspects of readying your vehicle for the journey.
Carry Out Crucial Vehicle Inspections
A long drive can really take a toll on your vehicle. The last thing you want is to be stranded on the roadside because you overlooked a minor mechanical problem. You must keep your car in good condition to avoid issues with the engine, tires, suspension, etc. on the way. Before embarking on a lengthy journey, visit your mechanic to get an oil change, oil and air filter replacement, and spark plug replacement if needed.
Also, make sure you get the following crucial checks-ups:
- Brake fluid, antifreeze, transmission fluid, power steering fluid
- Hose connections
- Proper functioning of high and low beam headlights
- Fuses and horn
- Wipers and wiper fluid
- Brake system inspection
- Tire air pressure
- AC system inspection
Before starting your journey, make sure you’ve stored a spare tire. Moreover, ensure all four vehicle tires do not show any sign of bulges, strains, or damage. Test your car’s brakes as well to be a hundred percent sure they are working correctly.
Pack an Emergency Kit
Keeping yourself and your passengers safe during an emergency is critical, and with the right preparations, it won’t be difficult. Keep a kit in your car’s trunk that includes:
- Extra oils for different mechanical systems
- Spare spark plugs
- Flares to let others spot you easily
- Fire extinguisher
- Tire iron and jack
- Plastic funnel for adding water or other fluids.
- Water bucket to collect water from a nearby source
Hopefully, you won’t encounter an adverse situation where you’ll need any of these things, but you should still always be ready for the worst. Some other survival items you might want to consider are:
- Flashlight
- Chain or towing rope
- Wrenches and screwdrivers
- Bungee cords
- Hammer and pliers
Is Your Car Safe And Protected?
Besides your car’s electrical and mechanical systems, your vehicle itself must be safe to drive. It means you should get rid of any hazards that might make it challenging to drive on the road, such as an overloaded roof. Extra luggage on top of your car will only slow you down and cost you more gas. It’ll also make it difficult to handle the vehicle on the road.
Fit sun protectors on side windows and keep one for the front windshield as well. It will keep your car cool under the scorching sun. You can also protect your headlights from damage and bug clogs by using a protective sheet cover.
Essential Road-Trip Items
Keep the necessary road trip items such as basic cables and car’s owner manual. These things will help you have a hassle-free, memorable trip. You can pack:
- A spare car key to keep in your wallet or with someone else
- Car phone chargers, auxiliary cable, camera chargers, etc.
- Garbage bag for your car
- Road maps for emergencies
- Your hotel information
- Food, snacks, and beverages
Create A Driving Plan
Of course, you want to have a safe, smooth, and enjoyable journey, and that’s only possible if you plan well ahead. Know how many hours you’ll be on the road and if you’ll need an alternate driver. Also, install an app that tells you about nearby gas stations and motels. You also need to know your route, understand directions, and have a backup in case you lose your way. Using a GPS tracker for your car such as mspy lets you record your route, so you can stop to view route history if you get lost. This tracker is also an excellent option to let your loved ones know where you are and that you are safe. They can track your location in real-time.
A Few Tips for Effective Driving
Some useful tips to remember for a safe and competent driving along your trip are:
- Do not drive at high speeds – you’ll enjoy more on the way and save gas as well.
- Don’t opt for red bull or coffee; stop over and take a nap instead or spend the night at the nearest motel.
- Plan driving hours according to your limits.
- Keep your distance from trucks – it bothers truck drivers and can be dangerous as well.
