With the holidays right around the corner, now is the time to make sure your car is ready for that haul to the in-laws! Here are some helpful tips to make your road trip as smooth as possible. Check them off one by one to help you prepare!
Get a maintenance check. If you can make time for it (which you really should), swing by your local mechanic and have them check everything from your tires to your brakes. While you’re at it, have them look at those pesky dashboard alerts that you’ve been ignoring—better safe than sorry!
Change your oil. Especially if you are going on a rather long trek for the holidays, you want your car’s oil and filter to be up-to-date. It’s an easy DIY if you’re handy, otherwise have your mechanic change it while you’re at the shop. Go ahead and have them check your fluids as well.
Spare tire. Make sure that spare tire you forget you have is functioning and full. You want to be prepared with a jack and tire iron, too, just in case disaster strikes!
Pack a survival kit. Whether an emergency occurs or you’re traveling with kids, make sure you’re ready for whatever comes your way. Your kit should include items like a spare key, flashlight, blanket, first aid supplies, jumper cables, ice scraper, tissues, wet wipes, cell phone charger, umbrella, snacks, and water. You could even get creative and pack fun car games to pass the time with those restless children in the back seat!
GPS System. Today it seems like everyone has access to some sort of navigation, whether it’s on your smartphone or built into your car… but sometimes service can be hard to find on the road, so print off your directions (like we used to in the good ol’ days) just in case you get lost without service!
Fill up with gas. This is a no-brainer before you hit the road, but a good rule of thumb is to always try and keep your tank half full. You could get stuck on a long stretch with no gas stations in sight, so keep your tank full just to be safe! Plus, it will help you get much better gas mileage on your long trip!
Check these things off your list to be prepared for your drive. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re ready for the miles and the unexpected!
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