Preparing For a Road Trip
There is a lot of differences of opinion on whether a car trip is a good thing or a bad thing. Some people love the idea of getting away in a car and taking a few days, or even weeks to get to their destination. Other people, me included, hate to take car trips and find them boring. Sometimes we even find it difficult to stay awake because we dislike the inactivity of a long drive. But no matter if we love or hate to take a car trip there are several things that should be done ahead of time to save you a lot of misery later on while you are on the road.
1. Give a visible inspection - Make sure that you walk around your car and check for anything that might cause trouble down the road. Are the tires fully inflated and in good condition? If not you could end up like me and have to change the tire 100 miles from home when you are on a 2000 mile road trip. Also make sure that all lights are working and get new windshield wipers to help keep your windshield clear.
2. Check the fluids - Make sure that your oil and other vital fluids are at premium levels and are not in need of changing. Your car will be working overtime and you do not want to give it any more stress than is necessary by not giving it the proper lubricant to handle the additional strain.
3. Clean the car - A clean car, inside and out, is a comfortable car. If you just throw your luggage into the car haphazardly you will end up a little more frustrated than if you make sure everything is in it’s place. Also less clutter tends to put you in a better frame of mind so that you can relax and enjoy the drive.
4. Top off the tank - Make sure that you top off the tank early so that you don’t have to stop too soon on your trip. It is always good to put as many miles as possible between you and your house before you have to make your first stop, which gives you a feeling of accomplishment and helps the time go more quickly.
These are just a few tips to help you to make your car trip more enjoyable. Above all else make sure that you are safe. Wear your seatbelt and get plenty of rest when needed. If you start to feel drowsy try eating something like sunflower seeds one at a time or doing some deep breathing exercises. You would be surprised at how much that helps you to get over a sleepy moment. Take time to relax and enjoy the head time, and have a good trip.