Photo by Tirachard Tumtanom on Pexels.
A road trip is great opportunity for a family vacation. So don’t ruin it by not doing these essential checks before leaving.
Give Your Car a Once-Over, Then a Second!
Of course, your car is the number one priority when going on a long trip. Everything needs to be tip-top and spic and span before heading off for a new adventure. Checking the fuel, lights, oil, water, electrical system, and rubber will help catch any issues. Of course, an electric vehicle doesn’t need all these checks. But even then, taking your pride and joy in trusted brake repair services or local garages for further inspection will make your vehicle that little bit safer.
Pack Medication and Other Essentials
With all the gas stations, supermarkets and mom and pop stores along popular tourist routes, you can buy almost everything you need when hitting the road. But you probably won’t be able to get medication unless you somehow get lucky and have a prescription for filling. Always double-check that you have all the medication you need before leaving. This includes things like inhalers, too. You should also check you picked up the essentials you need for medical comfort.
Plan the Route for a Family Road Trip
Unless you plan the route you want to drive ahead of time, there’s a good chance you will get lost. Around 72% of people report getting lost at least once when taking a trip. After booking a car, getting lost is a horrible situation to be in, and of course, it is also dangerous. Simple planning with a GPS or driving apps relieves a lot of pressure. A good GPS informs you of stops along the way, such as gas stations and restaurants. It will also inform you of road incidents.
Don’t Forget Emergency Supplies
Traveling the roads is fraught with uncertainty. If you plan to go a few miles from standard roads by taking the scenic route, you must pack emergency supplies. But even if you plan on sticking to the road well traveled, emergency supplies always help. This includes canned food and water in case you need to stay in the car or there is a massive traffic jam. Other supplies to take include spare phones/batteries, lights, blankets and warm clothing, and vehicle repair tools.
Inform Someone You Will Check In
Further to safety, letting someone know you are taking a trip can literally be a lifesaver. Plan to check in with someone every now and then so they know something is wrong if you don’t. Just a quick call or text is enough. This can be the difference between life and death if something goes terribly wrong. Phone calls can help pinpoint your last known location. The emergency services will be more willing to open a case if you have not been heard from them in some time.
Summary
Making sure your car is up to it will help with family road trip safety. It also helps to plan the route you want to take. And checking in with someone now and then helps in an emergency.
