There are just a few days left of summer, but the sunny and warm days ahead make this the perfect time to escape the city and enjoy a road trip in the countryside. However, during the first weeks of autumn, the weather might not always be so predictable.
In fact, you might find yourself dealing with temperatures that drop suddenly, strong winds, heavy rains, and colder nights. While the beginning of autumn makes for a great time of the year to avoid the scorching heat of summer and the cold winter days, a road trip during this time will require some additional preparation.
If you also have opted for a staycation this year and you are ready to make the most of your time off work by getting behind the wheel and discovering the beauty of your surroundings, you are going to enjoy a great adventure. Start getting your car ready for the road trip ahead with the tips below.
Find the Right Vehicle
The first thing you will need to think about is: what vehicle will you be driving? Most people today own a car, but having just any car does not mean that you have the right vehicle for a road trip. In fact, especially if you live in the city, the chances are that you have a small car that can swiftly navigate the narrow, trafficky lanes of the city center.
Nonetheless, when going on a road trip, you need a sturdy, reliable, and spacious car that allows you to travel through various roads and weather conditions in all comfort and safety.
Whether you have decided to buy a new, adventure-ready car or you are looking to hire a vehicle for your trip, you should start your search from this year’s new entries. For example, you can discover everything you need to know to decide whether the new 2021 Ford Ranger is the right vehicle for you – click here!
Plan Your Itinerary
Planning your itinerary is essential when embarking on a road trip, but it is even more so when planning an adventure at the end of summer. In fact, you will need to take into consideration what areas are more exposed to temperature drops and in which locations you can still enjoy a rainy day. Additionally, you will need to make sure to avoid off roads and muddy lanes that can turn a peaceful road trip into a taxing experience. And, don’t forget to pack ahead and make sure you have all the essential accessories that can make your road trip much safer and more comfortable.
Keep Up With Maintenance
Keeping up with maintenance is essential – but it is even more so if you are thinking about setting off on a road trip. In fact, your maintenance schedule should be determined based on the car’s mileage and should reflect your unique needs. If you don’t travel much or you use your vehicle just for a short commute, the chances are that you rarely visit the local mechanic. That is why you should inform them that you are going on a road trip and ask for their help in getting your car ready.
Assess Your Spare Tire
As we have seen, you need to bring your car to a mechanic for regular maintenance before your road trip – and it is recommended to do so in advance so that the mechanic has plenty of time to fix all issues before your departure.
However, there are some checks that you should also complete. One of the most important ones involved checking the spare tire. In fact, if you have not had to change the tire by yourself recently, the chances are that the spare tire has been stored for a while. This could have caused it to become brittle and unsuitable, which can make it unsafe in the event of an emergency. Check it yourself or ask your mechanic to assess it for you.
Check the Tires
Once you know that you can count on a healthy and suitable spare tire, make sure to check your car’s tires. Your tires are among the most important aspects of the car to get ready for a road trip. The type of tires you need for your car depending on your car and specific needs, but, as a rule of thumb, you should ensure that all tires are:
- Properly inflated
- Healthy
- Relatively new
- Suitable for the season, temperature, and kind of road you will meet
Check the Fluids
Checking your car’s fluids should be another point in your maintenance task. These should be checked regularly and professionally. Some of the fluids that need to be checked include brake fluid, oil, engine coolant, and transmission fluid.
Be Ready for an Emergency
Whether you are going to travel on safe, familiar roads or you have opted for a more adventurous itinerary, you should get your car fully ready to face an emergency. As we have seen above, you should start by checking the spare tire. However, you should also carry with you an emergency kit and all the tools needed to increase road safety in the case of an emergency or accident.
Store All the Important Details
If your car is malfunctioning or you find yourself involved in an accident, you need to know who to call. And, in some cases, you might be looking for help in a remote location or in an area where there is no internet connection. In this case, you should be ready with all the important contact details. Some of the ones you should have with you include an accident lawyer, road assistance, and a mechanic.
Clean Up Your Car
Getting your car ready before your road trip also means creating a clean and comfortable space for all passengers. Whether you are traveling solo, with your partner, friends, or family members, invest in professional car cleaning and detailing services.
While you might not necessarily need a spotless vehicle, make sure to clean up debris and add useful accessories such as pillows, a trash can, and perfume. After all, you are bound to stay in the car for long hours!
Safety Always Comes First
The tips above should help you get ready for your end-of-summer road trip. However, if something happens or you have doubts that your car is working properly, you should always try to find help.
Thanks for reading and y’all stay dandy.
-Diego
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