With the Holiday season, many people are scheduling road trips to see family, some of which have been long overdue because of Covid restrictions. Making a road trip out of vising loved ones for the holidays is quite common. To ensure your road trip is successful and smooth, there is a lot of prep that we at Highway 30 Garage would like to list today.
What Should I Do Before a Long Road Trip?
Motor oil: Consider getting an oil change if you’re going to be traveling through cold places. You can request a more winter-friendly oil that is cohesive with your specific engine. You may need to refer to your owner’s manual. Refer to your owner’s manual if necessary.
Wiper blades: Don’t wait to replace them if your wiper blades are looking a bit ragged. If the weather turns, you need as much visibility as possible.
Tires: Inspect the tires for wear and tear. Go ahead and replace them before your trip if necessary. Make certain tires match the conditions. A set of highway tires will be the quietest and get you the best mileage if you’re going to be staying mostly on the highway, for example. All-terrain tires are best for those spending some time on dirt roads as they offer significantly better traction, for instance.
Engine and brakes: Assess the health of your engine, your brakes, and HVAC system. If you are not mechanically inclined, consider a check from your mechanic.
Battery: If your battery is old replace it, otherwise ensure the cables are secure.
Wiper fluid: Make sure that you have wiper fluid rated accordingly.
Lights: Check all your lights, replace if they are dim or out.
What Should I Bring on a Long Car Ride?
Once you are sure the vehicle is prepared for your trip. Below are some supplies that are ideal to have with you in case you run into any trouble.
1) Water & Food. You will likely need some calories to sustain you if you get stuck in the snow. Look for non-perishable items. It is recommended keeping spare bottles in the car instead of in the trunk.
2) Flashlights. Keep a couple of flashlights in the vehicle, one headlight might be more convenient.
3) Jumper Cables. Being prepared for such scenarios is good practice whether you are on a road trip or commuting throughout town.
4) Road Flares. You want your car to be as visible as humanly possible, so other motorists do not hit you and road flares are cheap and highly visible.
5) First Aid. In case of minor issues, have a first aid kit in the vehicle.
6) Additional Phone Charger. Having means to charge your phone is a good idea.
7) Spare Batteries. For flashlights and other needs.
8) Multitools and Spare Tire Tools. In addition to an inexpensive socket set, a jack, a tire iron that should always be in your vehicle, it’s good to have a multitool for working on minor issue. The right multitool can be helpful for cooking, repairs, and even medical work.
9) Blankets & Extra Clothes. Especially for those traveling during the cold months, keep heavy winter jacket, warm gloves, and a rain poncho as well as blankets for emergencies.
10) Information of a Reliable Towing Service. Have information including contact information and basic details of a towing & roadside assistance professional is a life savor if you need one. Storing their contact info on your cellphone is also good planning.
Towing, Roadside Assistance & More in Cassia, Gooding, Jerome & Twin Falls Counties in Magic Valley, Idaho & Jackpot, Northern Nevada
If you are traveling through Twin Falls, ID and surrounding areas, be sure to have our contact info with for your towing and roadside assistance needs.
