The holidays are right around the corner which means many of us will be traveling to our loved one’s homes at some point in the next month or so. It also means that it’s winter, the weather is unpredictable and roads are not always in the best conditions. So I’m going to share with you a few of my tips and tricks for taking a winter road trip.
Fresh Wiper Blades
I frequently drive to Chicago throughout the year. It’s about a 5-hour drive, in perfect weather. The last few times I’ve been down there, the weather has not been that great. Torrential rainstorms making it nearly impossible to see or heavy snowstorms. Both conditions made me realize just how important it is to have good wiper blades. They make the difference of having a streaky hard to see through the windshield to having a clear windshield.
It is suggested to replace your windshield wipers every 6 months. I like to change mine in the fall and spring.
Routine Maintenace
I try to keep up on my routine maintenance but when I’m about to go on a road trip I always make sure to take my SUV into the dealership and get an oil change and any other maintenance that is needed. Sometimes that may mean an oil change, sometimes it may mean a little more work. Either way, I feel confident knowing that my vehicle is ready for the road.
Tire Rotation
Tires should be rotated every 6,000 miles, a great way to remember to do this is to do it every other oil change. Making it part of your routine schedule will help ensure you do not forget and help you get the most life out of your tires. Because let’s be honest, tires are expensive and if by rotating them you can get a few more months out of them it’s worth it.
Clean Out the Car
This sounds like common sense but the first thing I do when I’m going to take a road trip is to clean out the car. I take everything out. Like everything. I even pull out the floormats. Then I give it a thorough vacuum and wipe down the interior. Trust me, traveling in a clean car makes a difference on your mental health. It’s also a way to make sure everything you need is in the car, like cell phone chargers, tissues, snacks, ect….
Pack an Emergency Kit
It doesn’t matter if you are traveling 30 minutes away or 30 hours away, take a few minutes and pack an emergency kit. Grab some snacks, essentials and other items you may need to help if you get stuck by the side of the road or end up sitting in a traffic jam.
Bottom line, before your road trip adventure, make an appointment with your dealership to ensure your car is in roadworthy shape and take a few minutes to go through the car and prepare. Trust me, it’ll give you peace of mind and make the trip more enjoyable.
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