Sixth: Go back through your list of things you did at first last week and make sure all is well.
For example:
• Did you get an oil change? If not, you should probably do it now.
• How is your wiper fluid holding up?
• How is your tire pressure? A 5 minute check can save you from the inconvenience of a slow leak, or weak bead, while on the road.
Seventh: Go over your maps and make sure the route is clearly mapped out for you in advance. If you have a GPS make sure your map subscription is up to date. This is especially important if you will be travelling through cities undergoing major highway or roadway construction projects.
Eighth: Make sure you have your registration and proof of insurance in your vehicle and everything is current and legal. Two hundred miles from home is a terrible place to realize you never put your new insurance card in your wallet.
Ninth: If you signed up for a motorists assistance/auto club, make sure you have received your card. Also make sure your travelling companion has a copy of the information if needed, or keep a copy in the glove box.
Tip: You might be amazed at some of the discounts these cards can get you. On my last trip I saved 15% on my hotel rooms and received “comp’d” four star meals and beverages.
Tenth: Get rid of any junk in the car. It’s going to be a lot easier to load the car up next week if you are not deciding then what should stay and what should go.
Eleventh: Consider investing in a roadside emergency safety kit and any safety devices such as fire extinguishers, emergency seat belt cutters, window pane breakers, etc.
Twelfth: Make a list of any special items you will be carrying – especially anything considered potentially hazardous. Propane tanks on RV’s are a great example. Most tunnels prohibit you from going though with one unless it has been inspected by the authority on site.
