- Examine your tires. Switch your winter tiresfor summer or all-season tires.
- Check tire pressure. You’ll save on gas mileagewith properly-infated tires.
- Inspect your car. Get your car’s oil changedbefore going on your trip. Check the coolant/ antifreeze. Inspect belts and hoses. Test wiperblades and refll washer fuid. Check the car’sbattery; extreme weather can add strain onthe battery.
- Prepare an emergency kit for your car. Include:fashlight, fares, frst-aid kit, jumper cables, mat/blanket, extra clothes and gloves, papertowels, extra washer fuid, nonperishable food, water, and basic tools.
- Pack smart. Bring only what is necessary foryour trip. Pack food and snacks, and remember the camera!
- Load smart. Don’t pack the back of yourvehicle so it obstructs your view. Put items you’ll need along the way at the top of the pile.
- Avoid fatigue. Get a good night’s rest. Bewary of cafeine; a cofee buzz is followed by alull. Switch drivers every few hours. Stop ofen; this helps lower freeway fatigue.
- Tow with safety in mind. Keep it slow andsmooth. If you’re new to towing, don’t do it until you’ve educated yourself onproper technique.
- Take the scenic route. Have some fun onyour trip!
- Be nice. Use your signals. Let faster driverspass. Don’t tailgate. Be patient with trucksand larger vehicles.
- Protect Your Finances. Visit the Credit Unionand purchase traveler’s checks. Carry a checkcard; it’s safer than cash. Apply for one a fewweeks before your vacation.
Following these tips will help minimize travel hassle and maximize vacation fun!
*Source: edmunds.com
