1. Vehicle Maintenance - Always best to start the trip off with your vehicle in tip, top shape. So take it in to have the oil change, fluid topped off, tires aired up, etc. Make sure & discuss with your vehicle maintenance specialist what the best options are to get the best performance out of your vehicle on the long trip.
2. Inspect Battery - your battery and battery cables for any type of corrosion.
3. Tires - Cheek your tires for any wear & tear - your tires should have a good amount of tread on them. A good trick I learned is to place a quarter upside down in the tread of each tire. If George Washington's head is visible, it is time for new tires. Also, it's a good idea to know what tire pressure your vehicle's tires should be set at (located on the inside of the door or the vehicle maintenance book).
4. Spare Tire - Make sure your spare tire is aired up and you have all the proper tire-changing equipment. Even if you don't need it, you never know when someone you encounter on the road might.
5. Windshield Wipers - Now is a great time to buy new windshield wipers!
6. Clean your car - Before you pack, either take your car to be throughly cleaned (or do it yourself). Nothing feels better than to start a trip with a clean car (because you know it's going to get messy....)
7. Roadside Emergency Kit - Be prepared for any situation by stocking your car with an emergency kit - blanket, gallon of water, flashlight, jumper cables, first aid kit. etc. State Farm Insurance has a great list that we packed our car with.
8. Update your GPS system - Most cars now a days have GPS capabilities and we have become quite dependent on their maps. Make sure your GPS software is updated (if needed).
9. Download Road Trip Apps on your Smart Phone - I have discovered some invaluable apps on our road trips that have really helped me out. Gas Buddy will located the best gasoline price for you. iExit will tell you what to expect at the next exit. There are tons of great apps available to fit you needs.
10. Proper Documents - Make sure you have all the proper documents in the vehicle - Car Insurance, Vehicle Registration, and your driver license. Also, make sure your vehicle inspection is up to date.
State Farm Insurance has great tips for vacation preparation, many of which I used before heading out on our Bigger Than Texas Road Trip. Their online Safety Learning Center is packed with tons of great advice for vehicle maintenance to car seat safety and more! It is a great resource to look at before hitting the road!
I am working with State Farm Insurance this summer in a series of sponsored posts. All opinions are strictly my own and not endorsed.
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