Going On a Road Trip? Do These Things First
It's the time of year when people pack up their cars, trucks, and vans and head out for an annual road trip. Some are one-day affairs, but others are month-long or even summer-long voyages. If you're getting ready to take to the open highways in your personal vehicle, run through the following checklist first.
Check Tires, Fluids, Engine Condition
Perform the standard pre-trip routine by checking to see that tire pressure is just right, all fluid levels are at the full mark, and the engine is in good working condition. If you don't want to do any of those tasks yourself, most service garages will do a road trip check for less than $50. Just make certain to do it so you won't have to worry about becoming stranded in your vehicle during what is supposed to be a fun getaway excursion.
Gasoline Planning
Fill your car with gasoline before leaving and do a quick route review to see whether you'll be traversing any long distances where there are no service stations. If your car has been sitting unused for several months, consider siphoning out the old gasoline before filling up, or ask a mechanic to drain your tank if you don't feel comfortable using a siphon.
Many people don't use their cars very often and let fuel sit in the tank for weeks at a time. Maybe you’re wondering just how long does gasoline last? Then be sure to review an article that discusses how long gasoline lasts in a car's tank. In general, however, never let gas sit in a tank unused for more than three months. There are many factors that affect the specific amount of time it lasts, so read the article carefully for more specific information.
Pack Emergency Supplies
Everyone's definition of emergency supplies is a bit different, based on personal needs, weather conditions, and other factors. But for the most part, consider bringing plenty of extra batteries for devices like phones, laptops, tablets, GPS units, and similar items. Personal protection is important as well, so think about packing pepper spray canisters, distress lights, survival knives, a taser, and perhaps a firearm and ammunition for it. Lots of people run into danger while traveling, so don't allow yourself to become a victim. Plan for your protection based on the places you'll be traveling.
Stock the Trunk
What should you have in your trunk? Depending how long your trip is going to be, you'll need more or fewer of the following: an emergency food supply, a few gallons of potable water, a well-stocked first-aid kit, a tire changing kit, a fully functioning spare tire (some people like to keep two spare tires if they have room for them), a blanket, an extra set of clothes, a secret stash of money (about $50 is an ideal amount), several warning flares, a spare set of eyeglasses if needed, a decent set of basic car repair tools, and anything else you can think of based on the particulars of your trip.