Traveling can be tricky, especially if you aren’t prepared. Now don’t get me wrong, everyone loves a good visit to Grandma’s, but who’s to say the worst can’t or won’t happen trying to get there? So how can you beat the odds? I know, I know, traffic is worry enough, so here are some keys to peace of mind on a successful road trip.
Spare keys
When you do the absolute best you can to make sure your trip flows smoothly, some things just fall through the cracks, literally. Have you ever climbed into the car, only to have your keys slip out of your pocket and into the forbidden zones of the car? No worries if you simply keep a set of spare keys close at hand-maybe even in your purse or in the arm rest.
Spare tire
Traveling can be filled with so many different surprises, including road debris. Plan your answer to road junk by making sure you have a working spare in your vehicle.Most spares are stored in the trunk with a jack and instructions. Always check yours before you hit the road for long distances.
Roadside kit.
Roadside kits have all sorts of goodies in them, from jumper cables to flashlights and even flares. Smart parents add to them or even get creative and build our own. Either way, just remember to add a tire pressure gauge and a Swiss army knife so you’ll be prepared for anything!
Directions. Navigation system, paper maps, a notebook and pens.
Knowing where you want to be in life is important, but knowing where you’re going on a road trip is essential! Getting lost is a time-consuming bummer, so make sure you have directions and a backup plan for your directions.
First aid kits
These are great for emergency boo-boos, and you always can use things like tweezers, bandages, alcohol wipes, nail clippers, ice packs and pain relievers for more than one thing.
Food
Travel snacks and finger foods help in the midst of the hustle and bustle of travel, plus they keep you from stopping and spending unnecessarily at restaurants and high-priced convenience stores. Keep plenty of healthy finger foods, energy bars and bottled water at hand in the car.
Emergency Cash
Always, always, always have cash on hand. Both big and small bills (as well as some change) help at toll points, in case you need an emergency tow or just in case you get caught off guard and need a cab.
Blankets and warm clothing
Both these items are useful in emergency situations. You can use them to stay warm, as well as use them to wrap and carry things, if necessary.
Toiletries, soap, sanitizer, tissues and wipes
If you have sensitive skin, allergies or messy minors or are frequent stoppers at rest stations, having these goodies on hand can be a lifesaver. These little travel luxuries also can help you rest well if you’re a germophobe.
Portable chargers and connection cables
Always stay charged and ready for the unspeakable! Making sure you have the right cables to stay juiced, before you actually leave on a trip, is awesome. Not only will you be prepared if you have to make a quick decision, but you’ll also have an added sense of security.
Small life hacks like an open box of dryer sheets to keep the car smelling fresh and portable shower caddies to minimize food spills with little ones in the back seat are also great tools to consider when on the road. In the end, plan well, pack well and keep a sunny outlook. Odds are you will have a great road trip.
Jessica Samuel is a native of St. Louis and current Kansas City resident. She’s a freelance journalist and photographer.