How To Prepare You And Your Car Before Traveling
Source: Pixabay Whether it’s during the holidays or over an extended weekend, road trips can be a fun way to explore. They can also be stressful, both while preparing and while in the car. But with a few helpful tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip. We will look at a few things to do before heading out, but also some ways to keep boredom at bay during the trip itself. For example, a co-driver can avoid being bored by playing at a mobile casino. They offer a wide range of different games and the road trip passes much quicker.
Get your car road-ready
Source: Baby Bjorn Before getting behind the wheel, you need to fill up with the proper fuel, but don’t forget to check other fluid levels as well, particularly oil, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid. You must check that all tires have the air pressure listed in your owner’s manual – and don’t forget the spare tire as well! It is also important to check that your lights are working properly, your battery is sufficiently charged, and that you have the necessary emergency equipment just in case. A good emergency road kit contains jumper cables, flares, a flashlight and extra batteries, a first-aid kit, and a space blanket.
Plan your trip
Source: Pixabay Most people have GPS apps on their phones today. But what happens if you lose cell service or your phone battery dies? A good map or road atlas is handy to have in the car in this case as well as having a few routes in mind before leaving. Look for the best route and alternatives along the way. It’s best to avoid peak travel times as much as possible as there are more cars and frustrated drivers on the road. Generally, it is best to leave in the morning after sleeping well the night before. If you have children, it may be easier to drive at night so they sleep in the car, but make sure you don’t doze off as well! Ideally you should take a break every two hours, whether you are driving during the day or at night. When you do stop, be sure to do a few stretches to help your circulation and reduce the possibility of leg, back, and neck pain.
Packing the car
Source: Pexels Do not overpack! Take the time to make a list and begin packing at least two days before. Knowing what you need and avoiding tossing everything in a bag at the last minute reduces the possibility of forgetting something and makes the travel day start off smoother. You should balance the load by placing heavier items in the centre of the vehicle. You can save space by stacking your luggage but don’t block your rear vision. Another way to save space inside is to use a roof rack. It should be professionally installed, and you need to pay attention to the weight and size limitations of the load. If you are traveling with children, be sure to have sufficient sources of entertainment for them. You can include electronics, books, and puzzles, but also play family games such as “I Spy.” Don’t forget to have small healthy snacks and meals to eat along the way, keeping you from gorging yourself on fast-food at a rest stop. Some good choices include bite-sized vegetables, cheese sticks, fruit slices, and nuts. And don’t forget the water!
A great road trip idea
Not sure where to go? If you have a week, why not try the Volcanic Loop Highway on the North Island? Starting in Auckland with the Rangitoto volcanic cone, you then head south to the Waitomo caves, the Pureora Forest Park, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (covering the land between Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe), Lake Taupo, Rotorua with its mud pools and hot springs, and finally make a stop at the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata on your way back to Auckland.
