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Road Trip Provisions by Brendon Carmichael http://www.fxycar.com Even with the price of gas, the road trip remains a viable and relatively inexpensive vaction option for a lot of people. But prior to embarking on your adventure, it is best to have the car prepared so you need not come back for forgotten supplies or buy them on the road at vastly elevated prices. Begin with simple car maintenance. It is best to take your car in for a checkup so that the tires are properly inflated and the fluids levels are adequate. To avoid a possible and costly breakdown on the road, buy another battery if yours is over three years old. Always keep a spare tire and jack on hand to repair a possible flat. In case of overheating, be certain to have a jug of water on hand along with a quart of oil. An emergency kit equipped with flares, road blocks (these come in handy in the event of breakdown because they keep people from hitting you on the side of the road), and antenna and window displays to help signal for assistance. Now, be sure the inside is ready for the trip. Putting a trash bag in the back is a good idea to help keep debris and empty pop cans to a minimum. Don't leave home without first making certain that you have: proof of insurance, vehicle registration, owner's manual, and of course your driver's license and that of anyone that will also be driving. Bring along a First Aid kit for the inevitable headaches, bug bites, and minor cuts and scratches that always seem to accompany road trips. Making certain that people in the back have enough room to stretch their legs and relax will go along way towards keeping the troops from getting grumpy. Suggest that they take their CD players and any portable game systems with them, too. No matter the weather, it is wise to take along a spare blanket as it can help keep the body warm in case of injury that results in the body going into shock. Don't forget the container of drinking water, the bag of nuts or dried fruit, and of course the sun glasses because these are all must-haves on any road trip. Keep such items out of the way of all passengers so they don't get misplaced or crushed. A handful of quarters are a good idea for any trip because they come in handy for toll booths and other unforseen expenses along the way. There are going to spills along the way as well as some sticky fingers from finger food so try to pack some moist towelettes too. Your passengers will love you dearly if you remember some spare batteries and headphones for their electronic devices. Prepare a list of the places you will want to call upon arrival such as hotels and maybe theme parks. Finally, please don't forget the map and that road plan you spent so much time preparing because no one wants to get lost. |