Summer is officially here on Delmarva, and for many of us, we get the urge to travel. Whether it’s a day trip to the beach, or driving halfway across the country, there’s nothing quite like the freedom of the open road on a beautiful summer day. Follow these 5 travel tips to make your summer road trip even more enjoyable.
1. Before you leave, make sure your vehicle is road ready. Don’t forget the basics. Check your tire pressure, and fill tires if needed. Make sure all your fluids are topped off. This includes engine oil, wiper fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, and brake fluid. Also, make sure your spare tire is in working condition. Gas up your tank before hitting the road. Summer traffic can be unpredictable, and you definitely don’t want to be stuck in a jam with a low tank.
2. Bring a cooler of refreshments and snacks. Convenience store food is often overpriced and unhealthy. Save your money for other expenses and pack portable snacks for the road. In addition to water, be sure to pack snacks that are high in protein to keep you full and focused on your trip. Nuts, jerky, trail mix, cheese & crackers, and granola bars are easy to pack and easy to eat on the road.
3. Designate a passenger to be in charge of navigation. If you’re traveling with multiple passengers, someone other than the driver should be in charge of navigation. There’s enough to worry about as the driver without the added stress of checking a GPS or map. If you’re driving alone, be sure to input all necessary travel information into your GPS before driving, not while the vehicle is in motion. You only put yourself and other drivers in danger when you take your eyes off the road.
4. Make semi-frequent stops to rest your eyes and stretch your legs. It is recommended to take a 15 minute break every 2 or 3 hours during long car trips. This gives the driver an opportunity to rest their eyes and combat fatigue. Sitting for long periods of time is bad for your health, so the driver and all passengers should take this opportunity to walk around and stretch their legs.
5. Keep your vehicle stocked with emergency essentials. It is best to always have on hand a first aid kit, flashlight, blankets, and jumper cables. Other essentials include mobile phone and device chargers, napkins or paper towels for spills, spare change for tolls, a trash receptacle of some kind, and hand sanitizer.
Follow these 5 tips for an easier, safer, more enjoyable summer trip.
