You’re going on a road trip. You’ve had it planned for weeks. It should be fun and exciting, right? But make sure you bring the essentials. There are certain things that should be included on every road trip.
Must-Haves for a Road Trip
An emergency kit is a must. Include a heavy duty flashlight with extra batteries, fix a flat or slime, road flare, gallon of water, common hand tools, and first aid items. Store this in the trunk. You never know when you will pick up a nail and get a slow leak or break down.
Don’t forget the spare tire and tire changing equipment and know where it is located. Know how to change the tire or have a service ready to contact.
A small gas container is a good idea also, just to be safe.
Have a tire gauge in the glove compartment and get in the habit of using it frequently.
In the glove box, you will also want to have all documentation such as registration and insurance in the event you are pulled over or have an accident.
Use RainX on the windshield or take it along with you so that you can apply it if the weather gets bad.
Invest in a GPS device or borrow one. They are priceless. If you need to find anything such as food, hotel, supplies, gas, medical attention or automobile services, it will locate the closest ones. It will also keep you on route.
Bring a cell phone that has dependable service and a car charger. Be sure to charge the phone, it won’t be useful otherwise.
Are You Prepared?
A blanket is good to have on hand if you get stranded and the weather is cold.
Also a small food supply such as water, chips and granola bars should be included. Even being stuck in traffic on the interstate may be cause to break into the extra food supply.
Some form of personal protection that is comfortable for you such as pepper spray. Even if you aren’t alone, you may need to make a trip to the bathroom and it is good idea to carry something just in case.
A DVD player is a must if you are traveling with kids along with hand held games to keep them entertained. Also with kids you will need snacks and several other items.
A map is a good idea even with a GPS in the event that you reach a location that doesn’t hit on the GPS. It happens.
Any necessary medications, as well as an extra supply in case you get delayed and some common over the counter medications such as headache relief, acid relief, and antibiotic cream, are all good to have on hand. Be sure you have some bottled water on hand so you can take them.
Emergency Preparedness
Take a list of phone numbers to insurance, doctors, family, road side service etc, so that you don’t have to dig for it if you need it.
It may also be a good idea to put a spare key in a hidden location or with another person if you don’t have On Star or a keyless entry.
Traveler’s checks and any credit or debit cards should be included with as little cash as possible. Some cash may be necessary but avoid larger amounts.
A compass in the event you don’t bring GPS or it fails.
Any registration information or confirmation numbers for hotel reservations along the way. It can be frustrating when they suddenly don’t have you listed. Also the contact information and address to any hotels so you can locate them and call if you are behind schedule.
Purchase an outlet converter so that you can plug in small items that you use at home, into the car outlet. They sell them at places like Radio Shack. This way you can plug in a small television, light, etc.
Enjoy a fun and safe road trip if you take the time to plan ahead.
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