Preparing for a Road Trip

Vehicle Checks before Traveling

Before embarking on a long trip, take the vehicle for a service and make sure any problems are dealt with. Also ensure that all tires have a good tread and get the spare pumped up and ready for use.

What to Carry on a Road Trip

Take a list of phone numbers that may be needed in an emergency. Include family members, close friends and neighbors as well as insurance companies, roadside assistance and towing companies. Save these onto a mobile phone and also carry a printed list.

Maps are a necessity when traveling through unfamiliar territory. Source free ones from information centers, print them off the internet or buy a regional map book. It is best to have several maps of the area in question - showing different amounts of detail.

While looking for maps, pick up some brochures on the area as well. A brief stop at a tourist attraction can break a journey into manageable size chinks and keep the family entertained. Even if there is not much to see, take frequent breaks to pick up refreshments and use the restroom.

It is always a good idea to carry a basic first aid kit. These can be bought from drug stores or it is simple to make one up and store it in a plastic container. Include Band-aids, bandages, swabs, pain medication, heat rub, cream for relief of insect bites and scissors.

Packing for Children on a Road Trip

Children often find road trips long and boring. Pack a selection of entertainment to keep them occupied. Here are some suggestions that can be adapted to age and taste:

• Children's music CDs
• Portable DVD players
• iPods
• Puzzle books
• Magnetic games
• Paper folding activities
• Reading books.

Avoid packing foods that can melt like ice cream and chocolate. Finger foods like carrot sticks, cucumber slices and cold meat sandwiches are more practical as well as being more healthy. Carry drink cups with spouts or straws for little ones. Avoid sugary drinks and foods that can cause hyperactive behavior and tummy upsets. Carry wet wipes or damp cloths for wiping sticky hands and cleaning up spills.

Road trips can be long and tedious but with careful preparation and planning, they can be made more manageable and even something to be anticipated and enjoyed.