It’s easy to see why summer is the most popular season for road trips. There’s nothing like sitting next to an open car window and letting a mild breeze slip through your hair. But you can’t have a memorable summer car ride without taking care of your vehicle and keeping safety top of mind.
Here are some tips to help you have a safe and enjoyable road trip;
Check your battery.
Batteries have a typical lifespan of about three to five years. That’s why vehicles between six and 10 years old have a high number of battery-related issues.
Check your tires.
Keeping your tires in good shape is important because they’re the only parts of your car that touch the ground. Drivers should check each tire’s tread depth, inflation and overall condition.
Check your cooling system.
Scorching summer temperatures put serious stress on engines. Make sure the cooling system is ready by having it flushed on a regular basis and using manufacturer-recommended coolant.
Check your fluids and lights.
Check your vehicles’ transmission, power steering and windshield wiper fluids, and make sure all brake lights, headlights, turn signals, emergency flashers and interior lights are working.
Check your air conditioning.
Warm cars can make the driver drowsy and the passengers uncomfortable and irritable. A comfortable car makes everyone happier.
Be prepared.
Whether traveling 5 or 500 miles, every driver should carry important items like a mobile phone charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first aid kit, drinking water, extra snacks and food, booster cables, emergency flares or reflectors, windshield wiper fluid and a basic toolkit with a tire pressure gauge and adjustable wrench. A sweet pair of sunglasses will help you look wicked cool, and it’ll help you deal with bright summer sun. Polarized lenses reduce glare. Flip flops are fine for the beach, but they’re not the best footwear for driving.
Personal issues.
Never leave children or pets in the car unattended. Avoid eating behind the wheel. Avoid drowsy driving. Take turns driving. Research your route before you leave. GPS devices are very convenient, when they are working. Carry a road map or an atlas just in case technology takes a time out.
Here are some items to help make your road trip more enjoyable;