Road Trip Preparation

Determine when you’re leaving; traveling does not have always have to be in the summer. Also, there are many off-season deals during the rest of the year(and less crowds and traffic!) And always consider the weather, where you’re traveling from, going through, and arriving to.

Once a destination is set, you can get printouts of maps and other information from the Internet. More detailed guides can be bought from(and sometimes, acquired for free) many travel agencies, dollar stores, and discount outlets. (If you aren’t already a member, you may want to consider joining AAA.)

Are you going solo, or traveling with family or friends? Are you bringing pets? For a short trip, one small or medium suitcase each would be ideal. A long one may require one small suitcase and one large one each. Pack carefully; consider the climate that you’re going to. Bring a few needed supplies, such as a radio, camera, umbrella, pet food and toys, etc.

How much will your trip cost? Are you on a budget, or is it luxury all the way? This factor will directly affect your potential surroundings and activities. Either way, try to use travelers’ checks and credit cards for major expenses; try to carry a small amount of cash.

One of the most important things to do(if not the most important) is to be car ready. HAVE A SAFETY CHECK DONE ON YOUR CAR. Go over:

• Tires-They should be in good condition, recently rotated and balanced. Also check the spare for enough pressure.
  Front-end alignment
  Brakes-Should not be noisy or make the car pull to one side. Also test them for overall performance.
  Shock absorbers
  Ball joints, front- wheel bearings, and steering linkage
  Cooling system-Check the coolant
  Air Conditioner
  Exhaust system-Stuff rags in the tail pipe while the engine’s running; if the engine continues to run, you may have a leak.
  Check for Other Leaks-Concerning the oil, gasoline, transmission, and other fluids.
  Electrical system-Check your battery, lights, and radio.
  Lubrication-Do an oil change.
  Horn-Is it honking?
  Seat Belts
  Locks
  Windshield Wiper and Washer
  Fluid levels
  Mirrors

If you’re the driver, are you fit and ready for the road? Make sure you have an extra pair of glasses, updated medicine, and anything cruicial to your well-being close at hand.

Another thing you will want to have close at hand, and easily reachable, is Emergency equipment for your car. You should have the following in a box or large bag:

Jumper cables
A Jack and Lug wrench
Clean Rags
Wrenches and Screwdrivers
A couple of Old Spark Plugs
Old or new set of Points, Rotor, and
Condenser
A Spare Fan Belt
A Tire Gauge
Extra Fuses
A can of Inflator/Sealant
Spare Radiator Hoses
A can of Engine Oil
A can of Brake Fluid
Flares, Lights, or Reflectors
A Gallon of Water
Some Tinfoil-This prevents vapor lock in the
fuel line
Tire Chains
Small bag of Sand
Extra Blanket
Copy of the car’s Specifications Book
A Service Manual

Before you leave, make sure you have taken care of things, such as paper deliveries and mail. Also, activate your home night lights or dimmers. And again, take note of the weather.

Once you’re on your way, pace yourself and try to regulate your daily mileage. When stopping after a long drive, let the car engine idle a few minutes before shutting off the ignition.(This allows your cooling system to equalize the temperature throughout the engine block and prevents overheating.)

Look for reputable, clean places when considering a night’s lodging. Tip: Back your car into the parking space if taking out the larger suitcase. And Tipping? 15-20% is good, more for really great service.

Enjoy!