Taking a road trip allows you to embrace your free-spirited side and enjoy the wonders of nature. You can save money by not taking flights and dealing with layovers while traveling more flexibly. However, like with any trip, you need to do some planning, including prepping your car. The last thing you would want during your road trip (which is supposed to be relaxing!) is to have your car break down in the middle of nowhere. Read on to learn how to prepare your car for the perfect summer road trip!
What Are The Most Effective Ways To Get Your Car Ready For A Road Trip?
- Tires are the only part of a vehicle that directly touches the road, so ensure your tires are correctly inflated and of the correct size and type as specified by the manufacturer. Steer clear from any noticeable defects like bulging tires, gouges, and pothole fractures. If you suspect that your tires need further inspection, you can check if they’ve had a recall or investigation.
- Have you checked your vehicle’s fluids? This includes brake, transmission, and power steering fluids. To enhance your car’s operational efficiency and longevity, especially during a road trip, ensure that all your engine’s oils are functioning correctly and nothing is leaking or overflowing.
- This falls under the housekeeping tips category but is still essential for a pleasant road trip: clean your car! Remove excess baggage aside from an exterior wash and full vacuum. Don’t need any knick-knacks or athletic equipment lying around on the ride? Leave them at home! It may not sound like a big deal, but psychologically, you feel more at ease on your road trip than if you and your family were traveling in a messy car.
What Items Should You Keep In Your Car In Case Of An Emergency?
- No matter what the season or reason, items you should always carry with you in your vehicle emergency kit are:
- Your cell phone and car charger
- First-aid kit
- Drinking water and snacks for everyone
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Duct tape
- Jumper cables
- And more!
- You can also carry articles of clothing like a rain poncho or a wide brim hat in the summer and sweaters and coats in the winter.
- Your car needs “clothing” during road trips as well! Brightly colored cloth and reflective triangles can make your vehicle more visible in an emergency.
We hope you have an unforgettable road trip, and we mean that in the best way! However, because these situations are so unpredictable, it’s always good to know who to call- none other than the professionals at Tow Pro. We provide roadside assistance with an emphasis on customer service because we know how inconvenient a vehicle breakdown is, especially when you’re having a good time on a road trip. We have the equipment to jumpstart your car as efficiently and safely as possible. Contact us at (615) 256-TOWS (8697) if you need us. We’re here for YOU!