Check fluid levels. Clean headlights (if they are really bad, have us perform a headlight restoration),
change the oil, replace windshield wiper blades and make sure all fluids are filled to the appropriate levels. Check that your license, registration and insurance cards are actually in the car. (Saying, “Officer, I SWEAR my current insurance card is on my kitchen counter right now.” does not come across as charming.)
Check tire pressure and tire tread, including the spare tire. Proper tire pressure and tread help provide traction, gives better fuel mileage and lessens dangerous blow-outs. Inspect the vehicle’s battery. Car battery terminals should be secure and free of corrosion.
8 Smart Tips: 1. Take turns driving: If you generally drive yourself around town, you can handle a turn at the wheel. It’s nice to get a break from driving.
2. Bring your own music: A road trip is the perfect excuse to revive the mix of your favorite tunes. Don’t be afraid to turn-it-up and sing along at the top of your lungs. Or listen to a ‘book on tape’ to keep your mind more alert.
3. Bring food and drinks: Pack a cooler and snacks. I know you know that your body requires food and water. It is doubtful you will find something deliciously nutritious at gas stations.
4. Keep it clean: If you’re going to be traveling for hours, chances are you’re going to be eating, drinking and chewing gum, that comes in itty bitty gum wrappers, in the car.
Stay on top of the mess with a small garbage bag. This might sound like a silly detail, but riding in your own filth is…well...gross.
5. Get gas before you’re on E: Don’t come this close (gnat's ass) to being stranded on the side of a back road in the middle of the night, miles from a gas station or civilization. When you’re driving in unfamiliar territory, you never know when the next gas station will appear or if it will be open. Start looking for your next pit stop when you hit the quarter tank mark to avoid any long walks by the side of the road with the little red gas can. Plus, running low on fuel clogs the fuel filter.
6. Avoid rush hour traffic: It’s one thing to tack on time for an interesting roadside attraction. It’s another thing entirely to lose hours sitting in rush hour traffic because you ended up in ‘Chicago
7. Bring a real, actual, paper map that does not talk to you: I love GPS. Ours talks with a ‘monster’ voice. But even the best navigation system in the world makes mistakes. It’s also nice to have a map on hand if you find yourself having to detour around a city, or looking for the best route to that big ball of twine you’re hoping to see.
8. Have fun!: No, really. Ultimately, the success of your road trip is dependent on your state of mind. You can be prepared and still have a horrible experience if you’re focused on, “Are we there yet?”, etc.
Instead, I hope you find yourself laughing uproariously during random points in your journey. This is your summer vacation.
Planning ahead can make things easier and help avoid some common pitfalls, but ultimately if something goes awry it will be up to you to keep a positive attitude and make the most of your road trip experience. Relax. Smile. And enjoy the ride.
