Everyone getting into a vehicle looks forward to a smooth and trouble-free ride to his/her destination but as we all know that is not always the case. Before you embark on any road trip or long distance travel it’s vital that you ensure you have put in place proper measures to guarantee you and your passengers (if any) a smooth journey. Preparation is crucial and is in fact the first step to any journey. In this article I have created a checklist that should act as a guide to anyone intending on traveling long distances or road trips.
1. Research your intended route:
– This should be the very first step in your preparation process.
– Know the route you will be using extensively.
– Failure to do this could very well lead to you not reaching your destination and/or getting lost countless times.
– Use certain landmarks e.g. gas stations or motels as checkpoints if possible.
– If you haven’t used the route in recent times, landmarks or parts of the routes could have changed so do not assume.
– Input the route onto your GPS navigation system.
– Carry a map as back-up if possible especially if it’s your first time on that route.
– If the trip lasts more than a day, fore-plan where to spend the night(s) and possibly make arrangements.
2. Service your vehicle properly:
– Now that you know your travel route well, make sure your vehicle is well prepared to cover that route from start to finish.
– Make sure your car tires are not worn off, find out if you will be traveling through a muddy, snowy, sandy or tarmac terrain and prepare accordingly.
– Have your mechanic check your engine, transmission, brakes, steering and other crucial vehicle systems.
3. Carry extra fuel:
– When traveling long distances it’s possible to get caught in between stretches of road that have no gas stations in between.
– Carry you back-up fuel in case you need it later and if you do use it, refill your container at the next station so that you have a back-up at all times.
4. Take breaks where possible:
– Traveling for long distances can be very tiring especially if you’re not accustomed to it.
– Take breaks after certain durations, for example every two hours.
– Breaks are a good time to take in the landscape if on a scenic route, eat a meal, use your phone without distractions, visit the bathroom or stretch a little. It’s also a good time to check the condition of the car especially the wheels.
– This will prevent you from getting fatigued and possibly dozing behind the wheel which could end in disaster.
– Choose the locations to take breaks in carefully; gas stations, restaurants and other non-deserted areas are much safer.
5. Carry snacks and water:
– Just like with the fuel, not all roads are laden with motels or restaurants.
– Carry some snacks and enough water to last you the entire journey.
– This will also help you stay rejuvenated and not to take unnecessary breaks.
6 .Double check everything:
– You can never be too sure when your safety is involved, nor can you afford to compromise.
– Check the tire treads, tire pressure, engine oil, cooling water and fuel.
– Check that you have a spare tire and the tools to change it.
– Check that your lights are working properly.
If you have gone through the checklist then you are okay to proceed with your trip. You will find that when you are well prepared you tend to be more relaxed and get to enjoy yourself more. Have a good trip!
About Me:
Natalia Dwain is a blogger and content writer from London, UK. She loves reading and writing about
Technology recent updates. As of now she is doing research work on flight information UK.
This is a nice & useful post for those who love long tour & travel.
I really need this tips because by next week, I will be having a long overnight road trip. This is my first time, that is why I should be prepared to avoid any road accidents. I also checked properly my car if it is one the condition to travel long distance and It is.