ROAD TRIP!
Everyone loves a good road trip, especially when you have the pleasure of taking your time, cruising through the scenic route and stopping at various places before reaching your destination. However, in order to take part in these wondrous adventures, you must be sure your vehicle can handle the long haul.
Call a Mechanic. Contact your trusty mechanic ahead of time and let him/her know you'll be heading out on a road trip in the near future. Ask your mechanic to check over your vehicle and make sure it is up to par before leaving. Get any necessary repairs done before heading out. Be sure to include:
Oil change. (depending on when your last one was done and the distance you will be traveling)
All fluid levels checked and topped off
Inspect brake components
Inspect tires (including the spare!)
Any leaks are addressed immediately
Any noises or concerns you may have with your vehicle
Reserved. If possible, make reservations at your final destination. No one likes pulling up to a hotel and finding there are no vacancies.
Pet/Family Friendly. Will you be bringing along your children or fur babies? Make sure your destination is family-friendly and/or pet friendly and arrange for stops between destinations. For ideas on what to bring for your little ones, check out Bringing a Pet on a Road Trip and Kids on a Road Trip.
Weather. Make sure you check the weather for where you will be headed and for the route you will be taking. It may be sunshine without a cloud in sight at home, but dangerous thunderstorms with heavy rain along the way. Make sure you sign up for weather notifications to be sent directly to your phone. Also, be sure to read tips on Driving During Tornado Season.
Road Closed. Along with the weather, another good practice is to check to see if any road construction is going on along your route. Planning a time specific road trip can be ruined by bumper to bumper traffic because of a road closure.
All Nighters. Planning a long road trip? Make sure to bring another driver to help with the responsibilities. Driving while sleepy is dangerous! Plus, they can help with pets or children that may be tagging along. Not able to bring along a buddy? Arrange for stops to rest and sleep.
Tank on E. Don't wait until your departure day to fill up. Instead, fill up the tank the night before, that way when it comes time to go, you have one less thing to worry about.
Emergency. Don't forget your Emergency Kit! You should always keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with you, just in case. What should you keep in this kit? Well, it depends on the season. Summer Emergency Kit | Winter Emergency Kit
Have Fun. Don't forget to pack the fun! Check out these Road Trip Games and Fun Things to do on a Road Trip
When you are finally prepared for your road trip, remember to relax! Enjoy the long or even mini vacation away from your normal routine. Drive Safe!
J&S FixQuik Auto | Mobile Auto Repair | Aurora, IL
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