Planning an Extended Trip

While certain checks should always be made before driving, preparing for an extended trip of several days, some of which will likely be over high speed highways, requires extra preparation.

Preparing the Vehicle

Tires – inflation, balance, alignment, condition of tread and sidewalls.
Brakes for wear and/or adjustment.
Windshield wiper blades and all lights.
Engine compartment – tune-up, if applicable, oil change, lubrication and filters, hoses, belts, brakes, radiator and windshield wiper fluids.

Loading Considerations

Distribute weight evenly throughout vehicle. DO NOT OVERLOAD. [Load capacity is basically 150 lbs. per belted seating position plus 125 175 lbs. for luggage, check owners manual or “B” post].
Soft items only within passenger compartment, i.e. pillows and or blankets.
Car-top carriers raise center of gravity, adversely affecting braking and steering.

Basic Equipment

Maps with routes marked.
Flashlight, first-aid kit, screwdriver, pliers, adjustable end wrench, and socket set.
Jack, spare tire, lug wrench, wheel blocks, and battery jumper cables.

Emergency Equipment (Depending On Weather)

Tow line, gloves, Mylar blanket, radiator coolant, and windshield wiper fluid.
Water to drink, high energy food, and fruit.
Window scraper, chains, and warm clothing.

Personal Preparation

Know where you are going and plan your routes in advance.
Check on road construction projects along planned routes.
If camping or staying in hotels/motels make reservations in advance.
Determine number of miles to be traveled daily. (Normal average on major highways is 100 to 110 miles every two hours with 10-15 minute breaks every two to three hours and one hour stops for meals. Travel on secondary roads which go through towns and cities will take longer, as will driving through mountains.)
If one person will be doing all of the driving, six to eight hours driving in any one day should be considered the limit. When two or more persons can share the driving, total driving time should not exceed 10 to 11 hours.
Be aware of your down time between one and five p.m. and plan to take a break during that period.
If crossing a desert area, plan to do so in the cooler morning hours.
Since two out of three traffic fatalities occur a night, avoid driving after dark when visibility is limited and particularly after 11 p.m. when you are more apt to fall asleep while driving.
Let a family member or trusted friend know where and how to reach you in an emergency.
Be prepared to pay any large repair bill in case of a vehicle breakdown.
Remember to take:
- An extra set of keys.
- Insurance infirmation.
- Money for expected and unexpected travel expenses.
- Vehicle owner’s manual.
- Maps of local areas you plan to visit.
Determine approximate cost of fuel, meals, lodging, and entertainment.
Get a good night’s sleep the night before you start on the trip.