An exciting road trip can be full of memories that last for a lifetime. Although vacationers have the option of flying to their destination, traveling by car remains the best option for true adventure seekers. Here are a few tips for staying safe on a long road trip.
Fill the Gas Tank
Before leaving town, it is always a good idea to fill up the gas tank. Depending on the distance of the journey, the driver may still need to refuel along the way. Mapping out the gas stations in advance will help to prevent any unnecessary confusion during the trip.
Maintenance
Maintenance is important to keep a vehicle running properly for a long time.
Regular oil changes are important, and drivers of vehicles with high-mileage engines should keep an extra quart of motor oil handy.
Check the Tire Pressure
The condition of the tires has a direct impact on vehicle safety. Properly inflated tires offer better traction and improved handling. Good tire pressure will also make the vehicle more responsive when making emergency maneuvers on the road. Never leave for a long trip without first inspecting the vehicle’s spare tire.
Emergency Supplies
Travelers should err on the side of caution when taking a road trip. The vehicle should be stocked with essential items such as a first-aid kit, a roadside emergency kit, tape, a basic tool set and a flashlight. Some car problems can be temporarily fixed using a little creativity. It is also advisable to store a few snacks and a case of bottled water in the trunk.
Drive Carefully
Drivers need to pay attention to the road at all times. Periodically changing drivers during a long trip will definitely help to prevent fatigue. Drivers should stay especially alert when traveling in adverse weather. Although driving in the slow lane may prolong the trip, it will help ensure that everyone is safe.
How often do you hit the road?
19 thoughts on “Safe Holiday Traveling: Tips for Taking a Road Trip”
Don’t forget jumper cables! I never thought of mapping out gas stations before…good idea, especially if you’re traveling in a country where you don’t know the language so you can’t read “gas station” signs!
Good point, Katarina!
Until now, I only did a real road trip in Portugal a couple of years ago. But hopefully this year it’s time for another road along the west coast of the US. Fingers crossed!
Fingers crossed!!!! :)
Thanks for sharing these great tips Agness. I often hire cars on my trips abroad and even then I can’t take things for granted. Even the one I picked up for this week has a message on the dashboard screen saying it needs to be booked in for maintenance!
We also hire either a motorbike or a car :-).
Love road trips! And love your tips. It’s very important to check everything carefully before going somewhere by a car or motorbike :)
Many thanks Karolina!! :)
These are such great tips! Love road trips! We used to go all the time before having kids and never left home without some fruit and other healthy snacks and water :)
I love them too, especially with my best friends :). It can be so much fun!
This is a useful post, Agness. I’d add that a good GPS is helpful as well, so you don’t get lost. We highly recommend the free Waze app, because it routes you around heavy traffic and warns you if there’s a hazard ahead (or police!).
Thank you, Linda. I’m glad to hear that :).
Having just returned from a little road trip, I couldn’t agree more with all of your great tips! Traveling with a toddler, snacks and drinks are key, and some good tunes definitely help too :)
Perfect! I hope you’ll hit the road soon, Sonali! :)x
Road trips are my favourite way to travel, especially when there’s beautiful scenery to gawp at! Great tips!
Nice, thanks Becky a lot!
Very sensible tips- thanks Agness! :)
Thanks, Katie!
One road trip tip I should have told my uncle… Don’t put diesel in a petrol car!!