According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, over 657 million road trips take place every summer. If you are thinking about taking a road trip in the near future, then you need to start making some plans so that you don’t end up dealing with bored kids, bad directions, or a broken down car. Here are four easy tips you can use to make sure your next trip goes off without a hitch.
Use Technology To Your Advantage
Even if you plan on bringing physical maps with you, your smartphone could still be invaluable while you are out on the road. There are now thousands of apps designed to help drivers get to their destinations as quickly, safely, and efficiently as possible. These apps can help you avoid traffic and prepare you for any inclement weather that you might run into.
Create An Emergency Roadside Kit
All drivers should have well-stocked emergency kits in their vehicles at all times. In addition to basic medical gear such as bandages and painkillers, your kit should also include tools and supplies that will help you take care of common mechanical problems. That includes a multi-tool, flashlights, road flares, reflectors, a jack, jumper cables, and spare fluids. For those who are traveling during the summer, it is also a good idea to pack some extra water in the emergency kit.
Service Your Vehicle
No one should ever even think about going on a road trip until their vehicle has been serviced by an experienced mechanic. Preventative maintenance such as topping off the fluids, lubing moving parts, and checking the belts could prevent some major headaches later on. You should also thoroughly check the tread on your tires to see if they need to be changed. Hot roads can take quite a toll on old tires, and blowouts are notoriously dangerous. If your tires do need to be replaced, considered working with professionals like those at Evans Tire & Service Centers to help you find the right tire for your vehicle.
Don’t Forget The Entertainment
Loading up your car with snacks and some form of entertainment will make the miles fly by. Some of the best options for entertainment include audiobooks, podcasts, and trivia games. Your kids might also enjoy watching some movies on a smartphone or tablet to pass the time. As for food, cold water and high-protein snacks will keep you alert and energized.
Before pulling out of your driveway, you should also consider upgrading your insurance policy to cover roadside assistance. No matter how much time you spend planning your trip, an accident can happen in the blink of an eye. When those accidents happen, you want to be sure that you can quickly get the assistance you need to get back on the road
