While the excitement of getting away can cause you to rush the groundwork, the basic goal of a family year-end getaway is to get everything in the car and get to your destination and back safe and sound.
Careful planning and preparation will not only ensure that your journey is safe, but it will also make it easier for you – just what you need after a hectic 2017.
You definitely do not want a car that is not in a roadworthy condition to spoil what you are so looking forward to. Here are some tips in the form of a handy car checklist which will help you to get on the road with as little fuss as possible.
Road Trip Planner
“Life is a journey. Enjoy the ride.” – Nissan
Familiarise yourself with all the moving parts of the vehicle you will be driving: from the various buttons on the dashboard to being able to check if your indicators, interior lights and headlights work, to how to change the light bulbs in them, to knowing how to add windscreen wiper fluid, transmission fluid and oil. The owner’s manual should become your bedside reading in the week leading up to your trip.
Make sure that your tyres (including the spare wheel) are in decent shape. Match the tyre pressure to the specs in the car’s manual.
Pack a first-aid kit and a basic toolbox.
Sign up for roadside assistance and proper travel insurance. Print out those contact details, as well as any other emergency numbers to access in case your phone battery dies.
