1. Consider a Car Rental
If your car isn’t reliable for long distance trips, consider a rental vehicle. Being stranded alongside the road can be a major headache. There are many benefits to renting a vehicle, such as:
- You get to travel in a new car.
- You won’t put extra miles on your car.
- There is no need to have the car checked out.
- You may be able to take advantage of special rental deals.
- You can test drive a vehicle you are interested in buying.
If a car rental is not in your budget or plans, be sure to stop by Clean Machine Car Wash before you depart. A clean vehicle, particularly the interior, makes for nicer traveling. And don’t forget a trash bag!
2. Make a Complete Check List
It is easy to forget important things for your trip. To help you avoid this kind of problem, make a list of everything you plan to bring and things you need to do for preparation. Keep the travel checklist on the fridge and check off items as you load the car.
3. Have a GPS Backup Plan
GPS is a great travel tool and most smartphones have built-in travel assistance. It’s as simple as asking Siri or Google for directions. However, you may go through parts of the country with no cell service or encounter other issues while traveling. To make sure you don’t get lost, plan out your route, print the directions and place them inside the glove box. You may not need your directions, but they’re an easy and inexpensive form of trip insurance.
4. Take Care of the Kids
If you want to avoid the sounds of kids fighting, make sure they have plenty of things to keep them entertained. An onboard video player is a good thing to have. You can also check out kid games made for car travel. Travel activity kits are inexpensive and may prevent a lot of parental headaches.
5. Avoid the Rush
Give yourself plenty of time for rest stops and meals. It is better to leave hours earlier than to rush and make everyone uncomfortable. Plan where you want to stop to eat and check out the best rest stops and gas stations before you begin the trip. When you know where you’re going, it removes much of the guesswork. Also, check out road conditions before leaving.
Things to Ponder
Instead of putting wear and tear on your car, consider renting a new vehicle for your road trip. Create a complete checklist for your trip and go over everything before you take off. Print out travel directions, so you have a “plan B” in case you cannot use the GPS. Bring plenty of things to keep the children busy. Take your time. Leave early, so you are not hurried, and you can enjoy the ride. Last, make sure to stop by K&S Car Wash in Auburn or Weedsport area to start your road trip off with a spotless vehicle and clean it up upon your return.
