When it’s time to get on the road for a family vacation, make sure you do as much prep work as possible to prevent breakdowns and accidents. Additionally, make your travel plans with an eye toward frequent stops to change drivers or get in a nap. Finally, keep a small emergency kit in the car in the event of a mechanical problem or accident. Keep reading for more great tips!
Your Vehicle
Take your car to a trusted mechanic and let them know you are planning a long car trip. In addition to getting the fluids checked, make sure that your AC is in good shape. If you are towing anything, you will need your brakes checked and you may want to get the trailer serviced as well. Finally, if you need new tires, buy them before you get on the road. Flats are a hassle and blowouts can be dangerous, particularly on unfamiliar roads.
Sun shades are a great investment on a long trip, particularly if you are hoping that your kids will sleep for part of the trip. Adding suction cup sunshades to the back windows of your family vehicle can make it possible for you to get everyone in the car early in the morning and hopefully get some miles behind you before everyone is fully awake.
Keep Drivers Alert
Do your prep work the day before so on travel day, all you need to do is load the big bags, any pets coming with you, and the people. The person driving the vehicle should try to get a little breakfast and the morning beverage of their choice before getting on the road. Drowsiness is dangerous. Travel days generally start with a high amount of energy (or stress) so both adults will likely be awake for a time once you get on the road. Be ready to switch if you get tired. When you are traveling with children, the breaks will be frequent and long. In addition to potty stops and food requirements, your kids may want to switch out their games, reading materials or toys. Try to keep an assortment of car-friendly activities within easy reach, but be patient when stopping. Stretch your legs and back before getting back in the car.
Security
A week before you get on the road, double check to make sure that your license is current. Check your health insurance card, take a photo of it and email it to yourself. Discuss which credit cards you will take with you and make copies of the front and back of the card. Save this copy in your suitcase. Also, make copies of your insurance cards. When you get to the hotel, put these copies in the safe in your room. In the unlikely event that you are robbed while out and about, having images of your ID’s, insurance and credit cards will make getting replacements less of a nightmare. If you are in an accident, you know you have your ID and up-to-date proof of insurance on your person. Should the accident result in bodily injury to anyone in your family, be prepared to consult a car accident lawyer in Maryland or whatever state in which the accident occurred.
Personal Gear
Your kids will likely have a lot of personal objects in the car, so make sure they have a way to carry their gear. A backpack can work, but be prepared to check it if you visit a museum or other venue. For the adults, make sure that ladies with a purse are wearing a cross body bag. If you need a jacket, put the bag on first. Cross body bags are harder to steal, and with a jacket on, they become invisible. Guys who don’t want to wear a bag might consider a vest with pockets. Having your wallet in your back pocket can put you at risk of theft, which will cost you time and money as well as disrupt your vacation. Wearing a vest means you can keep your wallet close to your abdomen; again, it is harder to steal if you zip the vest.
Prepping for travel will be extremely stressful if you rush to get it done. Give yourself time to pack. Be fully packed up the night before. Make copies of your documentation that you can keep safe if the worst happens.
