Traveling on highways and small tree lined country roads in a car is exciting and an adventure for most city and town dwellers. But you must remember that once you exit major roads and settlements you may need to travel miles before you come across a gas station, house, or mechanic. So you must prepare your car old or new for a road trip.
Begin preparations for the trip by planning the journey. Get a road map and study the roads you will take, decide where you will spend the night if the trip is for more than a day. Make a list of essentials you will need to pack including making a list of emergency numbers.
Be sure to:
1.Give the car a thorough once over at a garage. Get major tune ups and repairs done at least two weeks in advance so that any minor adjustments will all be done before you set out.
2.Get all fluids topped up or replaced; battery fluids, brake oils, engine oils, coolants and so on. If your destination is warmer or cooler than home tell the garage so that they can adjust anti-freeze and water mixture to suit your destination.
3.Get tires checked and aligned. Replace worn out tires and get the tires properly inflated. If you feel it is essential get a mobile puncture repair kit, pressure gauge, and a small portable air tank.
4.Ensure that all door and boot locks are working and that windows are in working order too.
5.Do a physical check on your boot; check the tool box, spare tire, and jack.
6.Put in the glove box a set of car papers, insurance documents, and list of emergency numbers. Keep a manufacturer's manual handy. Put in a small box containing prescription medicines, a torch, and spare batteries.
7.Ensure that the car has a car adaptor to charge mobile phones.
8.Schedule maintenance just before you leave.
9.Get a AA membership and if you already have one get their 24/7 assistance numbers.
10.Ring a friend or family member and let them know where you are headed and your contact numbers.
If you have any serious medical problems then consult your doctor before leaving on a long road trip. Make sure all your insurance papers medical as well as car insurance are in good order. Keep a copy of your medical records with you just in case there is some emergency.
Ensure that you shut all the gas and mains before you leave and lock up the house with a check list by your side. Never leave a set of keys on the lintel or under a pot. And if you are planning to be away for a while inform the neighborhood watch as well as police station so that they will be vigilant. Alternately get a house sitter.
Enjoy your trip.
