As the summer sun beckons, the allure of hitting the open road for a vacation road trip grows stronger. Whether you’re headed to the beach, the mountains, or exploring new cities, ensuring your car is well-prepared is key to a smooth and enjoyable journey.
From safety essentials to comfort items, here’s a guide to what every car should have in preparation for a summer vacation road trip.
1. Emergency Kit
An emergency kit is essential for any road trip, providing peace of mind in case of unexpected breakdowns or mishaps.
Your kit should include items such as
- a first-aid kit,
- flashlight with extra batteries,
- jumper cables,
- reflective triangles or flares,
- multipurpose tool,
- duct tape,
- and a tire pressure gauge.
Additionally, consider adding a portable phone charger and a basic toolkit for minor repairs.
Where do you store these in your car?
Your trunk, of course. And here’s a pro-tip: keep them in a cooler in your trunk, which also “doubles” as storage for any roadside vegetable purchases!
2. Spare Tire and Jack
A flat tire can quickly derail your travel plans, so it’s crucial to have a spare tire and jack on hand.
Before your trip, check that your spare tire is properly inflated and in good condition
Familiarize yourself with the process of changing a tire, and ensure your jack and lug wrench are easily accessible in your vehicle.
3. Fluids and Maintenance
Before embarking on your summer road trip, perform a thorough maintenance check on your vehicle.
Top up essential fluids such as
- oil,
- coolant,
- brake fluid,
- and windshield washer fluid.
Inspect your tires for proper inflation, tread wear, and any signs of damage.
Consider scheduling a professional tune-up if your vehicle is due for service, ensuring it’s in optimal condition for long-distance driving.
4. Navigation Tools
While smartphones and GPS devices have made navigation easier than ever, it’s wise to have backup options in case of signal loss or battery drain. Bring along a physical map or atlas of your route, as well as a compass for navigating in remote areas.
Consider investing in a portable GPS device or downloading offline maps to your smartphone for added reliability.
5. Comfort and Convenience
Make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable by packing essential comfort items. Stock up on snacks and drinks to keep hunger and thirst at bay during long stretches of driving.
Don’t forget to pack a cooler or insulated bag to keep perishable items fresh.
Bring along pillows, blankets, and travel games or books to entertain passengers during the trip.
Pack sunscreen with a high SPF rating to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Consider installing sunshades or tinted window film to reduce glare and heat inside your car. Don’t forget to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and improve visibility while driving.
6. Entertainment and Connectivity
Keep boredom at bay during long hours on the road by packing entertainment options for passengers.
Load up a playlist of your favorite tunes or podcasts to enjoy during the journey.
Consider bringing along audiobooks or portable DVD players to keep passengers entertained, especially on family road trips with children.
A successful summer vacation road trip begins with thorough preparation and the right gear. By equipping your car with essential safety items, performing maintenance checks, and packing comfort and convenience items, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for you and your fellow travelers.
So buckle up, hit the road, and embark on an unforgettable adventure this summer!