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On the Road Again Summer Road Trip Tips
By Linda Sutherland
Summer will be upon us any minute, and I think we could all use a change of scenery! Many people are planning road trips this summer as a lower-stress and more flexible alternative to flying. Once you’ve decided that a road trip is in your family’s future, it’s time to start planning. Being prepared for a variety of scenarios will give you peace of mind when the rubber meets the road. First things first! Before you set off on your adventure, you’re away. there are some routine vehicle maintenance items that You can need to be addressed. If you’re renting an RV or another easily become the target of a burglar if you broadcast that vehicle, all the preparatory maintenance should be covered your home is empty. Resist the temptation to post until by the rental company, but be sure to ask. you are back home. One organization you should notify is If your car hasn’t had a tune-up in a while, it’s a good your bank. If your cards are suddenly being used in a new idea to get one before you head out. Even if your car has location, they might suspect fraud and freeze your account. been serviced recently, you should check your fluid levels You should also let your alarm company know when you’ll (oil, transmission fluid, and washer fluid) and top them off, be away. if necessary. Traveling with kids? In the movies, kids on road trips Check your tires to make sure they’re properly inflated spend their time fighting with their siblings and asking, and not too worn. Be sure to check the spare, too, to make “Are we there yet?!?” If you want a more peaceful trip, the sure it’s at the ready if the need arises. (This might also be kids will need some entertainment. Of course, kids will be a good time to review your tire-changing more than happy to bring their technique and make sure you know how devices along. For non-techto work the jack.) Have someone walk nical activities, don’t forget For some people, the appeal around the car when it’s running to make books! Kids may also be intersure all of the lights are in working order, ested in information about the of a road trip is the freedom including the high beams, fog lights, and places you’re going or the sites turn signals. you’ll see. You could give the to go where you please, Your glove box should contain your kids an envelope that they open insurance documents, car registration, as you cross each state line. It when you please. and roadside assistance information. could have fun facts in it about Check to make sure your GPS tracker is the state and a treat, as well. in optimum condition. (Old-school naviEasy-to-travel games like gators should have paper maps at the ready.) Stock the car tic-tac-toe and scavenger hunts or play-out-loud games with emergency items like a first aid kit, flashlight, jumper like I Spy or 20 Questions can also be good backseat (or cables, and spare cell phone charger. whole-car) activities. For maximum organization, use a For some people, the appeal of a road trip is the freeback-of-the-front-seat organizer for the kids to keep all dom to go where you please, when you please. Even so, the gear they want to access in the car. it’s best to plan at least a general route ahead of time and Road trippers of all ages need snacks! Try to bring make sure that a family member or friend knows where healthy snacks that will take a while to eat, and avoid you’re headed. You can still take a few side roads, but anything too messy (don’t forget napkins!). If you’re ready someone staying behind should know your destination. to upgrade your leaky travel cooler, consider one that Now, let us address the home you leave behind. Be stays cool by plugging in to the cigarette lighter in the car. sure to set timers on interior and exterior lights so it (These can also keep food or beverages warm, if you’re looks like someone is home. The last thing you want is for looking ahead to winter travel.) your house to look abandoned. Stop newspaper and mail Now that your home is ready, your car is ready, and deliveries and arrange for lawn care if you will be gone for your passengers are ready, it’s time for the change of a while. To save energy, plan to set your HVAC system to scenery we all so richly deserve. Let the summer road trip lower air-conditioning usage while you’re gone. adventures begin! Sources for this article included: travelingbroad.com, safety. I know I sound like a buzzkill, but do not use social com, and twirlsandtravels.com. media to update your location and whereabouts while 52
June 2021
