Road trips can be a lot of fun, but they can also be the cause of a lot of unnecessary stress. If you don’t take the proper steps to prepare for a road trip, problems can arise that ruin your whole experience. Don’t let your vacation be ruined by a lack of proper preparation. We at Tillema Auto know it can be hard to know what to expect on a road trip, that’s why we made this guide, to ensure you have the road trip essentials you need to succeed on your journey
Vehicle Road Trip Essentials
Before beginning any road trip, you need to make sure your vehicle is ready to make the journey. It’s a good idea to bring your vehicle in for an inspection to ensure your car will make the drive in one piece.
Long drives can take a toll on your vehicle, and if they’re not up to the task, things can fall apart very quickly. You want to make sure your brakes, oil, and tires are up for the journey before embarking.
If you’re driving three hours or less this may not be necessary, but it’s still a good idea to have your vehicle regularly inspected. Otherwise, costly problems may arise during your travels. And the last thing you want during vacation is unnecessary stress and costs, or a stop at an auto repair shop in a town you’ve never been to before.
What Road Trip Essentials to Pack
When packing for a trip there are many things to consider. It’s best to think through these things before you have to leave so that everything is prepared with time to spare.
Emergency Equipment
It’s important to always be prepared for an emergency. Here’s some equipment you should always have on hand, whether you’re driving across the country or across town.
- Jumper Cables – It is always a good idea to have a pair of jumper cables on hand in case your battery dies. If you are unsure how to use jumper cables, click here to make sure you’re prepared. Having a pair of jumper cables also comes in handy for helping other drivers out. If anyone needs a jump, you’ll be prepared to give them a hand.
- Spare Tire – Few things can derail a road trip as quickly as a flat tire can. Always keep a spare tire on hand just in case. Changing a tire seems difficult on paper, but it’s actually quite simple. Make sure you have the right tools and follow these steps and you’ll have it changed in no time.
- Tire Pressure Gauge – A tire pressure gauge is also incredibly useful. Many newer cars have this built into their display now, but for those who don’t have that luxury, you can buy them separately. Always make sure your tires are full of air to avoid unnecessary complications.
Must-Have Car Accessories
There are several car accessories that will make your travels much easier on you.
- Car Charger – A car charger is a must-have in today’s world. With almost everything being on our phones, it’s important to keep your phone charged in case of an emergency. Whether you need it for a GPS or to call for roadside assistance, a charger will ensure you can use your phone if needed (just don’t use it while driving!).
- Phone Mount – A phone mount is a very helpful car accessory. It lets you navigate the roads hands-free. You simply set it up where you can see it. Then you don’t have to keep looking away from the road to check the directions. An undistracted driver is a safe driver!
Schedule an Appointment
Make sure your vehicle is road-trip ready! Don’t stress about whether your vehicle will make the journey in one piece. Schedule an appointment with Tillema Auto today to ensure your car is ready to make the journey.
