Whether it’s your first road trip or your fifth, road trips are always an exciting time. However, they can be quite nerve-wracking too, as plenty of things can go wrong. Follow the list below and you’ll be ready to head on down the highway with safety and confidence!
If you’re looking to head off into the sunset, here are 7 things you need to do to prepare for your next road trip.
#1 – Plan Everything
Before you head off, make sure you have a plan of where you will be heading for each day of your road trip. Know where you are going to stay and what places you want to visit.
Make the effort to estimate the time taken to get to the destinations and the likely time of arrival. You should also check ahead for any road work or accidents that may cause you to be delayed.
If you are driving for a long time or across long distances, also consider sharing driving responsibilities. This will prevent you from getting tired and bored which can lead to accidents. If you are driving alone, make sure you take regular breaks at rest areas so that you are well rested and ready to continue the journey.
Lastly, don’t forget to tell your family and even the neighbours that you will be away – and when you will be back, and leave them your emergency contact details.
#2 – Car Maintenance
If you’ll be travelling for more than a day, ensure that your car is ready to go and in safe working condition before you start your trip. You will need to do some car maintenance checks such as:
- Ensure tires are properly inflated
- Clean the car before you head off, including cleaning the windscreen and checking that the wipers are in working condition
- Having enough water, oil, fuel and radiator coolant to last the trip
- Check that all your indicators are working fine
- Your car has been serviced before your trip and is regularly serviced
- You’ve installed custom-fit seat covers, dash mats, and car mats for long-term dirt and dust protection.
#3 – Roadside assistance
One thing you should definitely consider before going on any road trip is to take out a roadside assistance policy if you don’t have one already. This will give you added peace of mind.
Depending on your type of coverage, you will receive support for things like flat batteries, towing, getting locked out of your car and empty fuel tanks. In summary, all the things that can instantly wreck an otherwise good road trip!
#4 – Make sure you have car insurance
Anything can happen on the road. So, before you hit the highway, make sure you have the right type of car insurance so that you are fully covered before your trip. To learn more about the different types of car insurance, click here.
#5 – Have an Emergency Kit or Two
It’s always a good idea to have an emergency kit with you in case of accidents or emergencies. Your emergency kit should include things like jumper cables, a torch and tyre-repair items.
It’s also a good idea to bring a first aid kit and extra medicines along with you in case of any medical emergencies. Having enough water and a few snacks is also highly recommended!
#6 – Bring All The Basics
If you are travelling with kids in the car, then the earlier suggestion about having enough food and drinks is vital. You’ll also want to arrange some forms of entertainment for them, like an iPad, books or perhaps even a camera.
In general, for the main part of the journey, don’t forget to bring essential items like hats, sunglasses, insect repellent, wet wipes or antibacterial wipes, a towel etc.
#7 – Look for any Cracks, Leaks and Tears
If you are going on a road trip with a trailer or camper, it is especially important that you make sure that all of your seals are in good condition and that there are no leaks anywhere. Check for cracks in the frame and make sure all latches and screws are tight.
No Comments