It’s that time of the year again! Summer Vacations!!!
Airline tickets for the entire family can be extremely costly. Not to mention going through TSA can be excruciating.
Although car rentals and gas prices increase during the summer and holidays, using your vehicle for your road trip may be more cost effective.
Whether you’re planning to drive solo, with your partner or with your entire family or friends, you’ll probably be preoccupied with packing the right clothes and downloading the perfect road trip playlist. However, don’t forget to make sure your car is ready to make the trip, as well.
According to a survey by Toco Warranty, “63 percent of American motorists will be driving long distance for a vacation this summer.”
Having a checklist of “to do” items before your trip is key. So, here are a few steps you should take before hitting the road.
Give it a once over
In the days leading up to your departure date, make sure you have your car checked out by a mechanic. Be sure to tell the mechanic about your plans, including how far you’ll be driving so they can recommend oil changes or any additional tune-ups you might need, like your brakes, belts and windshield wipers.
Check your tires
Make sure all of your tires – including your spare – are in good condition. This means no bulges, bald spots or rocks or nails. Make sure they are all properly inflated. Many gas stations now provide access to free air for tires. It may also be a good idea to pick up a tire pressure gauge from your favorite convenience stores or gas stations and keep in your glove compartment. If your tires are under-inflated, fuel efficiency will drop dramatically. If they’re over-inflated, you run the risk of a blowout.
Be prepared
You never know what could happen while out on the road, so it’s important to be prepared for anything. Aside from packing your favorite outfits and bathing suites, make sure you bring these items that can help you out in a pinch:
- Extra fluids for your car. It’s always a good idea to keep extra windshield washer fluid. If you’re traveling during particularly warm weather, pick up a bottle of coolant, as well.
- Water and food. You never know when you will find yourself in bumper-to-bumper traffic or a broken down car, so always have water and snacks on hand.
- Emergency kit. You’ll want to keep a first aid kit with you, along with a flashlight, blanket and basic tools, in the event of a emergency or accident on the road.
Check your manufacturer’s warranty
While you’re planning your trip, double check your manufacturer’s warranty to make sure it has not expired. If so, then consider purchasing a vehicle service contract with a company like Toco Warranty. Toco Warranty offers affordable and practical vehicle service contracts that provide repair coverage after the manufacturer’s warranty expires. You don’t want to be on the side of the road 1,000 miles from home when you realize you don’t have coverage. So, make every mile count and have the peace of mind that your bank account will be protected if your vehicle needs unexpected repairs not covered by your warranty.
Wishing you fun times and safe travels!
Photo: Courtesy of Getty Images
