Stocking the Car for a Road Trip
by Brendon Carmichael
http://www.fxycar.com
Despite the cost of gas these days, taking a road trip is
still an affordable vacation option for many. Before you
leave the driveway, though, be sure you get the car ready
so you won't have to return to get forgotten supplies or
buy them en route at much higher prices.
You really need to begin with the basics: car maintenance.
Be sure that your tires are properly inflated and that all
of the automobile's vital fluids are filled to proper level
by taking it in for a tune-up. Losing power on the road
can be a real inconvenience so why not replace the battery
if its over three years old? Always be sure you have a
spare tire, jack, oil, and coolant in case the unthinkable
should happen and you find yourself on the side of the
road. The coolant alone is a good idea in case of
overheating and the tire should be an obvious necessity.
Stock your emergency kit with essentials like: flares,
road blocks (these are must-haves to keep passers-by from
hitting your car on the side of the road), and some signs
to hang from your window will summon aid.
A cramped and dirty interior can make for grumpy
passengers, so check the inside of the car before leaving
and make sure it is clean and stocked with a trash bag to
help eliminate waste that inevitably accumulates on any
trip. Do not even throw the vehicle in gear before being
certain that you have proof of insurance, vehicle
registration, the owner's manual, and of course your
driver's licence with you when departing. Road trips
always seem to have their fair share of minor cuts and
scrapes, headaches, and irritating bug bites so it is a
good idea to bring along a First Aid kit. The back seat
needs to be free of clutter so that the passengers have
plenty of legroom. It is also adviseable to ask people to
bring along CD players and portable game systems so they
have something to alleviate the inevitable boredom that can
overtake you on a road trip.
No matter the weather, it is wise to take along a spare
blanket as it can help keep the body warm in case of injury
that results in the body going into shock. Don't forget
the container of drinking water, the bag of nuts or dried
fruit, and of course the sun glasses because these are all
must-haves on any road trip. Keep such items out of the
way of all passengers so they don't get misplaced or
crushed.
A handful of quarters are a good idea for any trip because
they come in handy for toll booths and other unforseen
expenses along the way. There are going to spills along
the way as well as some sticky fingers from finger food so
try to pack some moist towelettes too. Your passengers
will love you dearly if you remember some spare batteries
and headphones for their electronic devices. Prepare a
list of the places you will want to call upon arrival such
as hotels and maybe theme parks. Finally, please don't
forget the map and that road plan you spent so much time
preparing because no one wants to get lost.
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