Road trips are exciting, but breaking down far from home can be a big bummer. The following four tips can help you get ready for anything life may toss your way on your next summer road trip, so both you and your car can arrive at your destination in one piece.
Tip #1: Be Prepared
Being prepared isn't just for the Boy Scouts; it's something everyone needs to keep in mind before they head out on a road trip. Keep a small first aid kit, a blanket, and some emergency food and water in your car at all times. If you end up off the road or have a car breakdown in a remote area, you will be able to survive in good health if you have these items with you.
Tip #2: Have a Route
The thrill of discovery is one of the joys of the road trip, but you need to know where you are at all times. Don't be overly dependent on technology to guide you; satellite signals and devices can fail, so keep some paper maps in your car along with the smart phone and GPS system. It's also a good idea to leave a copy of your expected route with someone at home, so they know where you are if something happens to you.
Tip #3: Set Up Emergency Back-up
Belonging to an auto club can make life easier if you get a flat, need a tow, or run into other emergency roadside conditions. This way you have a single number to call to get a tow truck to your location. If you don't join a club, at the very least keep $50 to $100 in cash on you. It's easier to pay a local tow truck driver in cash, and they may give you a discount for a cash transaction. If you require an emergency tow truck company, consider one like Superior Towing.
Tip #4: Stay With Your Car
If something does occur, get your car off the road and turn on your emergency lights while waiting for your tow truck driver. Only get out of your car if the road isn't busy and if you can easily be seen at a distance by approaching motorists. Generally, the safest place to wait is inside your car. Once the driver arrives, go with your car to the mechanic – don't request to be dropped off at a hotel or other location. You are in a strange town, so you need to know where your car is at and you need to negotiate repair costs in person.
Share15 June 2015
When planning a road trip, there are several things to plan for. Not only do you have to worry about where you are going, but you have to consider everything along the way. Who would you call if the car was to break down along the road? What if you got a flat tire and couldn't get the tire off of the car? Planning for these emergencies can take some of the stress off of things as they happen. Visit my blog to find out what you should do before leaving your home to ensure that you are prepared for all of the roadside emergencies you could face.