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Stocking the Car for a Road Trip
by Brendon Carmichael
http://www.fxycar.com
Many people still consider the road trip to be a very
affordable and enjoyable form of vacation, despite the cost
of gas. Before slamming the gearshift into reverse and
backing out of the drive, you just may want to double check
your provisions and the vehicle itself because it can be a
costly mistake in both time and money should you overlook
anything.
Begin with simple car maintenance. It is best to take your
car in for a checkup so that the tires are properly
inflated and the fluids levels are adequate. To avoid a
possible and costly breakdown on the road, buy another
battery if yours is over three years old. Always keep a
spare tire and jack on hand to repair a possible flat. In
case of overheating, be certain to have a jug of water on
hand along with a quart of oil. An emergency kit equipped
with flares, road blocks (these come in handy in the event
of breakdown because they keep people from hitting you on
the side of the road), and antenna and window displays to
help signal for assistance.
Next, check the inside. Clean it thoroughly and place a
trash bag in the back seat for rubbish. Make sure you have
the owner's manual, vehicle registration, proof of car
insurance, and driver's license in the glove apartment or
with the driver. Carry an emergency health kit for problems
like scrapes, headaches, cuts, or insect bites. Look to
ensure that the passengers have adequate legroom and
leisure space. You can encourage them to bring along
portable CD players or handheld computer games if desired.
Even if you are departing in the middle of July, bring
along a blanket because should someone become seriously
injured on the trip, they will go into shock and need to
stay warm. Also, remember the drinking water, some snacks
like peanuts or perhaps some dried fruit, and sunglasses
to ward off glare. Be sure to keep these things out of the
passenger's path so they are not lost or worse, broken.
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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