With summer here, and gas prices on the decline, people are driving more, taking more road trips. It is still wise to save as much gas as possible when traveling. You need to get the best possible gas mileage as you can on your adventure, as well as making sure your vehicle and its occupants are safe.
Road Trip Safety Tips – Tires
Make sure your tires are properly inflated per the specifications for your vehicle. You can usually find the required air pressure printed on a sticker on the driver’s side door jam or on the door itself.
Road Trip Safety Tips – Tire Pressure Gauge
It makes sense to own a decent tire pressure gauge. If you have one handy, you will know instantly if your tires are properly inflated or not. Keep it in your glove box.
Road Trip Safety Tips – No Jack Rabbit Stops or Starts
Don’t suddenly slam on your brakes or take off from a stopped position like a shotgun went off. Accelerate slow and steady. On the other side of the coin, don’t wait until the last minute to slam on your brakes.
Road Trip Safety Tips – Keep an Eye on your Gas
Gauge
If you are on a long trip and, the signs indicate ‘last station for 30 miles, you need to make sure you stop for gas if your gauge is showing you are getting low. As a rule of thumb we try to stop for gas at around a half tank. You may run into stretches of highway that have limited gas stations. It is better to fill up when you can even if you only need a half tank.
Road Trip Safety Tips – Refreshments
Take a cooler with you filled with water, juices and fruit. Sometimes a nice drink of water can refresh you quickly. Take a bag with healthy snacks such as nuts and keep it handy. Healthy snacks can help you make it through to the next meal time.
Road Trip Safety Tips – Miscellaneous
* Wear your seat belt.
* If you get tired, let someone else drive for a while.
* Make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition and the fluid is full.
* If it is almost time for an oil change, do it prior to the trip.
* Have an emergency kit in the vehicle.
* If you live in a state that requires vehicle inspections, and your car is due soon, have the inspection prior to the trip.
* If you don’t have a GPS or other navigation system, get maps prior to your trip.
* If you plan to be gone 7 days, take enough medications for a few extra days. You never know when an emergency may extend your trip.
* Keep a list of your medications in your wallet, along with emergency contact phone numbers.
* Always let a friend or family member know your travel plans in case of emergency.
You will enjoy your road trip more if you are well prepared in advance. Make a checklist and follow it. Enjoy the ride!
Source:
Personal experience from many road trips
