Some people say that they simply enjoy going on a Road trip, while avid road trippers say that it is a state of mind.

All in all, one must embrace the philosophy of the road so to truly enjoy your road trip journey. Before setting off on the open road in your car or RV, you have to prepare yourself. Here is what you should do:

Vehicle tune-up

Call your trustworthy mechanic and take your car for a complete check. Your vehicle is about to become a mobile home for you and your road trip companions.

That is why you should have your fluids, battery, air conditioner, tires and belts checked. Also, clean your car before the trip and every few days during the trip, for junk knows to pile up and will drive you mad at one point.

Make sure that your car seats or booster seats are installed correctly. If not, you may put your children and yourself at risk for injury or death.

Sleep regularly

A large number of accidents happen due to drowsy driving. You should drive only when rested, and you will get enough rest only by a good night’s sleep.

Drinking lots of coffee during your drive can help you to a certain extent. A 16 hour drive cannot be endured by drinking 6 cups of coffee in 6 hours.

When your eyelids start to become heavy, pull the car over and take a nap. If there is another adult with you, switch off with him every few hours.

Pack a safety kit

Gear up for safety with an emergency kit that will include: tools to change a tire, a first-aid kit, warm blankets, flares, jumper cables, a fully charged cell phone, a flashlight, and water reserves.

Write down some road assistance phone numbers that you can call when in need of assistance. Get some coolers for keeping your refreshments, travel pillows for additional comfort, and one of those reliable crash cameras (helpful when it comes to disputes of liability of an accident).

Sun protection

The most useful tip regarding sun protection and heat is to avoid driving in the afternoon. Take a nap or rest during the hottest hours of the day.

The best time for driving is at dawn, dusk, or night, because the temperatures are the most pleasant and there is less traffic on the roads.

Still, you and your companions should be equipped with sunglasses and sunblock creams. Get a sunshade for your backseat, and never leave your kids alone in the car.

If left exposed to the sun, the interior of your parked vehicle can reach deadly temperatures when the outside temperature is at just 80°F.

Clear the backseat

If you are travelling with your kids, make sure to clean the backseat from any choking hazards, potential projectiles (toys or hard books), and poisonous substances such as washer fluid.

Batten down the bulky stuff

Heavy items should be stored low in the seat wells. If it comes to a sudden stop, these things will not become projectiles.

The same thing applies to strollers, suitcases and other stuff placed in an open cargo area. Batten them down and no need to worry.

The last tip, but not the least: respect speed limits. Safe drivers should always choose not to exceed speed limits, because they are there for a reason. When you drive at a higher rate, your reaction time is cut.

There is more stored energy that must be dissipated in case of collision. Keep to the right side of the road if other traffic participants are moving at higher speed than you should go.

The post Essential Tips for a Safe Road Trip appeared first on Synergistic Mind.