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Get any service which is required performed prior to embarking on your vacation. Check your local dealers service specials — many will have coupons which will help save you money and ensure a safe trouble -free trip. Replace your fuel, air and oil filter prior to your trip if they are part of a needed service do not skimp. This will help avoid problems and can save you a lot of wasted time and money. You do not want to spend your vacation waiting for your vehicle to get repaired in the middles of nowhere U.S.A. |
Make sure to top off all fluids and it is not a bad idea to change your oil and flush your radiator and replace with fresh coolant, especially if you are heading on a Vegas Vacation or to even hotter destination. Make sure things such as the washer fluid and brake fluid are also full.
Check to ensure all tires are inflated correctly as recommended in your owner’s manual. Also to be sure to check your tread and if your tires need replacing — do it! A blowout can result in a lot more damage than just replacing a tire.
Make sure your spare is in place and inflated properly, and you have all the necessary tools to change a tire if needed. The parts department at your dealership has road side assistance kits and safety kits which are a helpful and inexpensive way to ensure you have all you need if the situation arises.
Check and make sure you have your owner’s manual, insurance card, and registration handy. It is a good idea to also bring along a spare key or have your key code handy in case you lose, misplace, or lock your keys in your car.
Check all your belts and hoses; if they appear dried or worn-out, simply replace them. It is always a good idea to buy an extra of each and keep then in storage compartment along with any tools just in case.
Check your fuse box and replace what needs to be replaced. Head on down to your dealership and purchase and extra of each. This is a great way to make sure you have what you need when you need it. If one goes you can replace it and ensure your A/C heater and headlights are working when you need them.
If you have a cell phone, make sure it is completely charged before you begin and if you have a car charger put it in the car a couple of days before you plan on leaving. Also let friends, family, neighbor or all three know your route, stop points and estimated arrival time at your end destination and check in when you can. If you get lost, are in an accident or breakdown this will be a major benefit in getting you found quickly.
When planning your route try and stay on or as close to full service routes as possible. This may add a few minutes to your travel time but can save you both time money and frustration if you end up having any problems. It is a good idea to print your route even if you have a navigation system. Buy a road atlas, this way should you get lost or if the navigation system should fail or misguide, you can find your way and get back on track much quicker and easier.
It’s not a bad idea to clean out your car prior to your road trip. It can often help remind you of things you may have needed and did not have on your last trip or give you an idea or two of things you may need for this one.
Pack your suitcases no later than the night before you plan on leaving. This will help ensure you have what you need and do not forget anything you really need. Have everyone place the luggage in a central spot to make loading easier and faster. When loading your vehicle, be mindful. Place items as to not obstruct your view when possible. Place your heavy items closer to the rear wheels and try and distribute the weight evenly from side to side.
It is always better to have and not need then need and not have. It is a good safety measure to have a couple of gallons of water, some blankets, flares, bright clothing, along with dried foods, beef jerky, protein bars, small bags of chips, trail mix and any additional space saving foods just in case help takes a little time to get to you.
Check your battery and make sure cables are clean of corrosion, fastened tightly and secure. If you do not have a set of jumper cables, consider buying some and keep in a handy place just in case. Most road side emergency kits have jumper cables; check first if yours does not purchase a set or borrow a set.
If your vehicle has roadside assistance as part of the original manufactures warranty, extended service agreement or if you are a AAA member make sure you have all the information handy. You should keep registration card, or brochures in your glove box with the owner’s manual at all times. Also consider programming the numbers for these services in your cell phone along with bluetooth device if your vehicle comes equipped with one.
Make sure you have games, movies, cards, coloring books, and whatever you may need to keep the kids occupied prior to your trip. If you don’t, you are sure to enjoy a constant chorus of, are we there yet, I’m bored, how much longer till we get there…you get the picture.
Do not forget to “Get your kicks on route 66″, have fun enjoy your time together a vacation is time to unwind, relax, and leave the stress of everyday life behind. Happy and safe motoring. Oh, I wear extra large just in case you wanted to pick me up a souvenir.
