Of all American traditions, the cross-country road trip is one of the most beloved. The freedom, serendipitous experiences, and sights one observes during this type of travel creates memories that can last a lifetime.
However, it is vitally important to prepare adequately before setting out to protect against mishaps that might throw an unexpected monkey wrench in your plans.
Aside from getting an insurance plan before setting out (check out Omega Auto Care Reviews, as they are highly recommended) there are numerous preparations you can make before a road trip that will make it comfortable, safer, and enjoyable for everyone involved. Or you can try to rent at Iceland 4×4 camper rental Below, we’ll run down points you should go over before you jump in the driver’s seat and hit the highway.
1) Tune up your car
Your vehicle has served you well for months on end, so it should hold up well on this trip as well – or will it?
Even if you have stayed on top of your preventative maintenance, there could be a part somewhere within your car that could be on the verge of breaking.
By taking your car to a trusted mechanic in the days before your trip, they will be able to put your ride through its paces.
This will allow them to flag any issues that could derail your journey halfway through. Be sure they check the fluids, brakes, and the tires, as deficiencies in these areas could cause serious problems.
2) Clean it from top to bottom
You might be okay with the lived-in state of your car when you’re using it to commute to and from work, but what will your friends think when they are forced to put up with its disheveled state for days on end?
As much of a pain it can be to clean anything, taking the time to clear irrelevant junk from the backseat, to vacuum the seats and carpet, and to deodorize the interior, as this will make things more bearable for everyone.
3) Pack a cooler with a variety of drinks and snacks
While you will be making stops to eat and fuel during the course of your journey, there will also be times where you will want to make miles.
To stave off pleas for drinks or food, stow a cooler in the back and fill it with a variety of drinks and snacks.
This way, you also won’t be stuck for these essentials if you are in the middle of nowhere, or if you happen to break down despite your best efforts before the trip.
4) Assemble playlists of tunes and podcasts
There will be times when the car is abuzz with illuminating conversation between you and your friends. At other times, though, having a selection of music, audiobooks, and podcasts will allow everybody to chill out and enjoy some great entertainment for a while.
Poll your pals in the weeks before the trip and assemble a lineup of songs and programming that will keep everybody engaged throughout the whole ride.