Planning a road trip is probably one of the exciting parts of traveling. The anticipation and the thought of being on the road with no particular time to arrive at your destination is an enthralling idea.
Unfortunately, when you finally get out on the open road after all your preparations, there's still a chance that you'll have a flat tire or something else will go wrong.
To avoid this, prepare and have contact details for people to call for assistance. For instance, having contact details of exceptional car accident lawyers can significantly ease your stress when an accident occurs. Other than this, here are ways to make sure the car is ready for the trip.
Have a Checklist
To make sure you've given the exercise the attention it deserves, create a checklist. It will enable you to mark off every item when inspected to ascertain that the car fits the trip. Key things to check include:
The Tyres
Check the tire pressure to ensure it matches the recommended pressure. You may also want to decide whether to get new tires or just a tire patching service. However, have a spare tire just in case. Also, check the tread on the tires of your car.
New Battery or a Jump Starter
Ensure the battery is in good working condition. A jump starter can also give you an extra power boost if your car isn't turning on. This usually works for those who have flat batteries. If it's been years since replacing the battery or if you've never done it, now's an excellent time.
Oil and Coolant Levels
You do not want to drive the car with no oil or water. Ensure that they are at their peak levels before you leave, and also check for any leaks. Additionally, check your engine oil and change it if necessary.
The engine oil protects vital parts of your car, so it's essential to ensure its level is correct. Low or wrong grade oil can damage the moving metal parts.
Have a Tune-Up
It's critical to have a professional check the car and carry out any repairs before the road trip. It saves you from the risks of breakdowns and getting stranded on the road.
Check Other Parts of Your Car
In addition to this, check other parts such as the wipers, lights, brake pads, air conditioning, and belt tensioner. Do not forget about your car radio, as it keeps you entertained on the long trip.
Ensure Maps and Directions Are Updated
Google Maps is an invaluable resource, but there are times you won't be able to use mobile data or Wi-Fi, which means you'll need something else for directions. Have an updated map in your car, as well as a road atlas. The latter can be helpful if you want to go for a scenic route that's not too far from the main roads.
Pack the Essentials
Make sure to have a toolbox with you, which shouldn't be too hard with a checklist. Include items such as
- Extra Coolant
- Oil and other fluids in case of a leak or accident
- Disposable gloves to avoid dirtying your hands while changing a tire
- A tow rope/chain for getting unstuck from slippery surfaces
Besides this, carry portable phone chargers, including one to use when in the car, snacks, beverages, video games, and music. Packing enough water keeps you hydrated when on the trip.
Prepare Your Documents
The documents you prepare will depend on your destination. Have your passport ready, and review the expiration dates on your insurance sticker, license plate, and driving license. Find out if there are other necessary documents to bring with you, then keep them in a separate bag for quick access.
Make The Bookings Early Enough
Don't wait until the last minute to make calls to book venues, hotel accommodation, and other essentials. Do this earlier enough to ensure you get your preferred choice at a good bargain. Doing this is especially important in peak seasons.
Have a Sustainable Plan
Decide how many hours you'll be on the road each day and where you'll get accommodation and food. Don't drive for long hours or skip sleep to get to your destination on time. Doing this can lead to burnout leading to road accidents.
Going on a road trip with family and friends ensures that you have someone else help with driving when you're too tired.
Involving everyone in making plans ensures that you're adequately prepared for the road trip. You'll have more fun and have peace of mind knowing that everything is well taken care of and emergencies will not throw you off balance.