Eight Tips for a Road Trip

If you’re heading on a road trip, take your car in for a tune-up. (Day Of Victory Studio/Shutterstock)

It’s road trip time! Holiday weekends almost demand you take to the road and explore. From national parks to amusement parks, America has much to offer vacationers. Planning a trip is nearly as fun as taking it.

Although a road trip is fun, it does have its challenges. This is especially true if children are involved. Here are eight tricks and tips for enjoying that hard-earned vacation while keeping your sanity.

Leave Home in Order

Before stepping into your car, ensure your home is in order.

If you'll be gone for a while, stop your mail. Nothing invites a thief in more than mail piling up. In case you’re worried, place security cameras and other home security items around your house. That way, you can monitor your home on your cell phone.

Let a family member, trusted neighbor or friend know you’re leaving. And don’t ever post on social media that you’ll be taking a vacation. You don’t want to advertise the house will be empty. Post once you return all you want, but not while vacationing.

Clean your house before you leave. This may seem odd, but returning from a relaxing vacation to face a dirty house is not fun. You want to be happy you’re home, not dread it.

Be Aware of Gas Prices

Although gas prices are down from 2022, they have inched up a few cents since May 2023. Expect higher gas prices when you’re on the road. If you’re going out West, expect to pay a dollar more per gallon than if you are on the East Coast. Take measures to lower your fuel consumption.

Slow down your acceleration time and save. For example, by obeying the speed limit and breaking gently and gradually, you can improve fuel economy anywhere from 15–30 percent. Look ahead and read the road. You’ll save money and be safer.

Carrying extra weight can cost you as well. Having an extra 100 pounds could reduce your fuel economy by one percent.

Clean Your Vehicle

Just like you don’t want to go home to a dirty house, a dirty vehicle could squelch some excitement. Pick up any trash in the vehicle. Wash the windows and vacuum.

Once it’s clean, try to keep it as clean as possible. Make sure you have a trash bag or small container for trash and empty it at every opportunity. This is especially important when you have children in the backseat. Think of it as being the same as organizing your desk. Your vehicle is clean, and it will be easier to find needed items; like that umbrella, when it rains.

Tune Up Vehicle

When going the distance, having a well-maintained vehicle is important. Plan for unforeseen repairs. Some things to check are:

• oil
• tire pressure
• coolant
• brakes
• caps, hoses, belts, and filters
• windshield wipers and windshield wiper fluid

If it’s a last-minute trip, at least check all your fluids, especially coolant and wiper fluid. Wiper fluid seems basic but vital if going down the highway with a dirty windshield.

Have Needed Paperwork

Double check that you have your insurance card and registration. On a long trip, the chance of being pulled over increases. You also should keep a copy of your and your spouse’s driver’s licenses with your paperwork in case of loss. Make sure any car manuals are in the glove compartment.

And if you have any passes, like to parks or attractions, stow them with your paperwork. Even if you don’t think you’ll need them, do yourself a favor and take them with you. Plans can change.

Besides the obvious paperwork, keep an extra credit card and cash stowed in your car. If your wallet is stolen, you won’t be destitute. There are portable safes you can purchase to hold valuables.

And, finally, have an extra car key.

Utensil and Clean-Up Tote

When road tripping, you'll probably find yourself in hotels and ordering take-out. At that point, you might find yourself trying to eat a salad without a fork. Put a tote together with plates, cups, and silverware. It can be permanent utensils or paper and plastic.

Also, keep wipes or cleaning spray on hand for those inevitable messes. Always keep a roll of paper towels in your car. If you have children, messes can and do happen.

Keep collapsible chairs and a picnic blanket on hand for those roadside stops.

Download Needed Apps

Wi-Fi isn’t readily available when traveling. Make sure you download any needed apps before leaving your house. Road trip apps you might want to download include:

• Trip Advisor
• Gas Buddy (to find gas stations near you)
• any music you like
• any podcasts you like
• audio books

And don’t forget to download Google Maps.

Ensure Tech Accessories Work

Even if you’re not the most techy, you should consider certain devices and accessories.

It’s a litigious society. Make sure you’re covered by having a dash cam. They attach to the windshield and capture what you see. You can play the recordings back on your phone. That way if you’re in an accident, and the finger is erroneously pointed at you, there’s evidence.

If you’re using your phone for navigation, use a hands-free phone holder. And always have a car charger and an external battery. Keep your phone fully charged at all times.

Always Take Breaks

Having your travel apps and paperwork is important. But keep safety in the forefront. Take a break every couple of hours to stay refreshed and loosen up those joints.

The Epoch Times Copyright © 2022 The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors. They are meant for general informational purposes only and should not be construed or interpreted as a recommendation or solicitation. The Epoch Times does not provide investment, tax, legal, financial planning, estate planning, or any other personal finance advice. The Epoch Times holds no liability for the accuracy or timeliness of the information provided.