Road trips are always exciting and fun. But a road trip is more than just jumping in your car and having “the wind in your hair and the sun in your face.” Road trips, especially if you are planning a long one, require preparation. Yes, even with your newly-bought car. Read more to find out about the ultimate road trip checklist by Auto Window Tinting.
Check the Fluid Levels on Your Car
We are talking engine oil, brake fluids, coolant, windshield washer fluid, power steering fluid and transmission fluid. Check them and change/refill them if required. If you are not able to do it yourself, schedule a checkup for your car.
Charge It Up!
Nobody wants a dead car in the middle of nowhere. To avoid such a situation, make sure you charge up your car battery. Also, check the battery for corrosion and the wires for signs of wear.
Brakes & Tires
Get your brake pads checked at the service station and change them if need be. Use your gauge to make sure that your tires have a good amount of tread left. One way to examine the tread on your tires is to hold a quarter upside down in the tread. If the top of Abraham Lincoln can be seen, your tires still have good traction suitable for all weather conditions. Don’t forget to adjust tire pressure suitable to your car model.
Get Your Windows Tinted (if you haven’t already!)
Road trips mean driving for long hours in the sun. Save the trouble on your eyes and get them tinted. Tinting your car windows also gives you further protection from UV rays and controls the heat levels inside your car. Read more about the Benefits of Auto Window Tinting
Lights, Horns and Wipers
Check your low beams, high beams, left/right, brake and reverse lights. You might want to change your headlights if they are foggy. Don’t forget about the interior lights. You do not want to be holding a flashlight to read your map at every turn due to a faulty light in the car. Make sure your horns and wipers are working too.
Air Cleaner Housing Filter
Open your air cleaner housing and check the filter. If it is black or has gunk when you pull it out, it needs changing.
For Emergencies
Let’s hope you don’t have to use it. But do pack an emergency kit filled with a flashlight, first aid supplies, basic tools, jumper cables, flare lights, GPS charger and extra water/food. Don’t forget about a spare tire that is full of air. Better safe than sorry.
Food, Comfort and Entertainment On The Road
Food- Pack foods that are easy to eat and digest. Avoid too much sugar or sodium. Hydrate yourself throughout the trip.
Comfort – Pack a blanket, travel pillows and a change of clothes. If you want to save up on space, a jacket that can be folded into a pillow is a great idea
Entertainment- First, make sure your car stereo is working. Make a playlist of songs, audio-books and podcasts to keep boredom at bay.
