Within the next few weeks many families across the country will be heading off on summer road trips and family adventures. Some people might only travel a few hours away from home, other people might head across country traveling though many states.
Before you head out on your travels be sure to take some time to prep your car and make sure its in tip top shape. After all, you wouldn’t want anything to happen to your car along the way that would mess up your family’s travel plans, or be costly to repair.
WaterSavers®, a consumer awareness campaign from the International Carwash Association® (ICA), has some great tips to help you gear up for upcoming road trips and take care of any damage done by this year’s harsh winter.
Wash your car at a professional car wash. Winter months can be especially hard on your vehicle and washing your car is an easy first step to making your car feel new again. Using a professional car wash is a great way to protect the environment. According to the International Carwash Association, WaterSavers professional car washes use an average of 40 gallons of water or less per car while recycling and filtering their water to prevent harmful chemicals from going into our rivers and streams. Professional car washes also remove salt from the undercarriage of your vehicle, which is a must after a long winter. By comparison, the average home washing machine uses 41 gallons per cycle, and a garden hose uses 63 gallons of water in just five minutes. You can learn more, and find a WaterSavers wash at Washwithwatersavers.com.
Give the inside a deep clean. Winter’s elements are hard on the outside of your car, but many people forget the abuse the vehicle’s interior takes as well. Think of how many times you’ve crawled into your vehicle with dirty, snowy feet and you can begin to understand why cleaning the inside is necessary. Apply some baking soda and a rubber sponge to your floor mats for an environmentally friendly and efficient clean. Then, wipe down interior surfaces with a microfiber cloth and vacuum the fabric and floor to remove dirt, sand, salt and dust.
Don’t forget the maintenance check. Winter is finally over, but that doesn’t mean your vehicle can skip an overall maintenance check, especially if you want to save energy. Make sure to have your oil changed and give your vehicle an once-over. Check the fluid levels as well. The more efficiently your vehicle runs, the more gas you’ll save.
How’s your tire pressure and alignment? Low tire pressure will cause your vehicle to overexert itself and waste gas so make sure your tires are up to the task. Your tires list their recommended pressure on the side. If you can’t find it, you can find the recommended tire pressure in your owner’s manual. It is also a good idea to have a certified technician conduct an alignment test since it could have been thrown off by driving over pot holes during the winter months.
I have some tips I’d like to share too.
Make sure you have emergency equipment and supplies in your trunk. This includes a spare tire (or a way to stop a leak), tools, extra blankets, non-perishable foods and an emergency medical kit. It’s also a good idea to have things like flares and markers to protect you and your vehicle if you breakdown on the road.
If possible let a friend, family member or trusted neighbor know your travel plans just in case something happens. This way your travel route is known and the authorities can help track you down.
Don’t let your car run on empty or close to it. You are taking a chance because there might not be another gas station around for miles.
If you are bringing children make sure to bring along toys, games and other things to entertain them (tablet, portable DVD player). Trust me, any road trip can be ruined with whiny, miserable, restless children. Road trips are not as much fun for little kids as they are for bigger kids and adults.
If you are bringing your pet make sure you have plenty of food and water and take frequent “potty breaks”. If possible bring an item of comfort from home such as a favorite toy or blanket.
If you don’t belong to an automotive club like AAA now is a good time to join. You’ll be grateful that you did the first time you call for assistance.
For more information about WaterSavers® visit www.CarWash.org. You can also check them out on Facebook and Twitter.
WaterSavers® would like to offer a prize package that can help you with your travels this summer.
The prize package includes:
- Gap Stick
o A versatile auto accessory to help access the hard-to-reach areas of a vehicle. Designed with a strong magnetic hook, the gap stick can pick up a key ring, jewelry or anything else that has slipped between the seat and the center console.
- Phone Caddy
o A plastic phone holder that clips to air vents in any vehicle to keep your phone in view for GPS usage and close to charging outlets.
- Auto Trash Bag
o A sleekly designed bag with a bottom zippered compartment for extra garage bags or hand wipes.
- $50 Visa Gift Card
This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only and will end on June 7, 2014 at 11:59 PM (EST). The winner will be chosen at random using a random number generator from all eligible entries. The winner will be notified via e-mail and will have three days to reply or a new winner will be chosen in their place.
To enter please comment on this post and share a car travel tip, ideally not one already mentioned in the post.
For extra entries you can use the Rafflecopter widget (below) but you must complete the initial entry requirement or the additional entries wont’ qualify (I do check). Extra entries are optional.
Kimberly
*I received a sample prize package in exchange for my participation. There was no other compensation. The opinions expressed are my own and not influenced in any way.
Lisa Brown says
Car tip: Clean out the interior and trunk/cargo area and get rid of everything not needed on this trip, and be sure to check the emergency kit and pack it last..
Mary Happymommy says
It should go without saying but don’t text and drive.
Leigh Anne Borders says
I have a bag packed with a change of clothes, towels, blankets, snacks, water bottles, and things for the car like oil, transmission fluid, etc.. You never know when you might need them. Living int eh South and after the winter we had, you just can’t be prepared enough!
Micki says
Carry sunscreen and bug repellent in the car at all times.
Jessica To says
Make sure to carry an emergency kit and have your vehicle checked out before any trips.
Elle says
It’s a good idea in the warmer months to keep a battery powered fan in the car along with water bottles and snacks just in case.
alicia k (Petite Pilates Pixie) says
i always make sure i keep up with my car’s maintenance
Ellie W says
My husband carries basic tools to make quick repairs if necessary.
shelly peterson says
make sure your car is kept up on its maintenance and make sure your cell phone is fully charged.
Deborah says
Check air pressure in tires. Ideally, have the car serviced before leaving!
Anne says
My tip is this: Don’t overpack! Just because there’s room in the trunk doesn’t mean you should fill it with stuff you “might” want or need. If it comes down to it, you can buy things at your destination, and you’ll get better mileage from not weighing your car down with extra things you probably wouldn’t use anyway.
Janet W. says
One car travel tip is to make sure your GPS has updated maps with the latest information!
Kelly D says
My tip is to bring a case of water because we always need drinks and when you times it by 4, it gets expensive.
Jessica Cox says
Beware of distracted driving phone ,texting, or even messing with the radio.
MaryJane says
Make sure your Garmin or Tom Tom is updated. I am speaking from experience. 🙁
Birdiebee says
I carry a trunk organizer in my vehicle with all of the emergency necessities as well as bottled water, towels, plastic bags, paper towels because you never know when one of the kids are going to get sick.
Michelle C says
I like bringing along snacks and age appropriate distractions for my kids as well as making a playlist for our trips. Thanks for the chance to win!
mrsmchappell at gmail dot com
Maralea says
Have your car maintenanced before leaving on a road trip.
Jessie C. says
If you travel with kids, never forget to bring games, books and snacks.
Gina M says
My tip is to keep an emergency kit in the trunk with extra water, flashlights, blankets, snacks, etc.
Thanks for the chance to win!
wildorchid985 at gmail dot com
debbie says
Make sure to get a tuneup done. That way your mechanic can spot if something is wrong to prevent breakdowns on your trip.
Cindy Merrill says
If you Must travel with cats,make sure they have had some calming medication ( Check with your vet for the best kind available): They’ll be happier and hopefully will sleep during most of the trip.
katklaw777 says
Be sure to clean your headlights regularly…it makes a big difference!
Dorothy Teel says
My tip is to be sure to check all your belts on the car before you go on a trip and if possible have spare belts in car repair basket, with duct tape, oils and transmission fluids and spare water, and keep you cars tires in great shape, check for tire wear before your trip, use a penny and lincolns head.
Margie says
Take along some snacks and drinks. For long trips, we always have a book on CD. It makes a long ride go faster.
Katie Amanda says
I’m bringing a pet, do not leave them in the car alone!!!! Thanks!
Holly Thomas says
Keep a box of Granola Bars in the car for emergencies.
Jackie says
My tip is to make sure you know where your spare tire is, and to make sure it is in good shape should you get a flat tire while driving.
Kim Henrichs says
Make sure the fuse to your lighter is working if you use that as a travel charger – i learned the hard way!
laurie damrose says
Keep extra money for emergecies.
D Schmidt says
My best tip is to make sure your car is serviced before you go on a big trip and ensure you bring chargers for cell phones, etc.
Candice says
Carry water and other emergency essentials when you travel.
Christina Foley says
I pack each of the kids their own bag for travel … new little toys and things to keep them busy based on what they like. They also have their own snacks, packaged as individual servings so they can get their own snacks and the older ones can help the little ones without having to dig through a bigger bag. I print up road games like bingo and a check list for finding license plates or things like that, the kids love it and it really helps to pass the time. I also try to plan ahead for a few stops along the way to get out and let the kids explore.
Brynn says
Every kid gets their own little box full of snacks, toys, games etc
Linda Kish says
Get your car checked out before you go…fluid levels and tire pressures, wiper fluid, wiper blades.
Kimberly Schotz says
Make sure everyone wears their seat belts at all times.
Kelly Tupick says
My travel tip is to make sure the car is well packed and everyone is comfortable. You don’t want things sliding around in the trunk and anyone not comfortable on a trip. Also, make sure you have all your fluids checked and filled. If you are low on anything, keep backups with you. Last but not least, take time to enjoy yourself. Road trips make for great memories.
Melissa M says
We change our wiper blades in the spring after all the snow.
Tabathia B says
Check your spark plugs and change them yearly
Erika C. says
For my family trips we like to take along a power inverter for the vehicle, so our phones and tablet stay charged up.
Wanda McHenry says
My tip is to bring a pillow so you can sleep the miles away! I hate car travel. 🙂
heather says
My car tip is to make sure you have extra water and food in the trunk. I also keep toilet paper and a sleeping bag in my trunk along with my emergency kit, tennis shoes and extra socks.
Tina W says
Always have a stash of cash in case you get to a gas station in the middle of nowhere and the credit card machine is down.
Virginia Rowell says
My tip is to always keep a roll of toilet paper in the car. You never know when that emergency will come up and you could be out in the middle of nowhere.
shaunie says
To always carry snacks with you on the road. It saves time and money
Ann B. says
I always carry water in the car….I learned this when I traveled in Arizona, and all the locals carried frozen water bottles just in case you got stuck you could dehydrate just waiting for help.
Amanda S. says
Keep hand sanitizer in the car…you never know when you might need it!
Mary Beth Elderton says
I have recently learned what a toll winter weather takes on the windshield wipers. It is a good idea to change them in the spring to be ready for spring and summer showers.
Sara Zielinski says
Update GPS maps before you leave if you are using a GPS
amy rouse says
take frequent stops to stretch your legs and clear your head
Barbara Montag says
I make sure the kids have the appropriate things to keep them occupied.
It makes all of the difference!
thank you
Jane Squires says
When I travel with my granddaughter – age 2 – we have to play children’s CDs in car – she loves her silly songs
patricia says
My travel tip is to print out directions/take a map. I lost cell phone service in the middle of nowhere and couldn’t use my GPS app.
Robin Wilson says
Never drive when you’re sleepy! Pull over and take a nap if you have to and always have an emergency kit with you including water and food.
Kristie says
Check the air in the tires, oil, etc., before a trip to make sure the vehicle is in tip-top shape 🙂
Debbie Stanton says
I always like to get a few new toys for my son… just a new coloring book and those Crayola markers that don’t write on anything but their book, or a maze book or a cd/book that he can listen too. Just something new for $4 or $5 is worth not having a whiny/bored kid.
april yedinak says
My travel tip is that if you are traveling with small children, make them lap boxes. These are wide, but not very tall cardboard boxes filled with new art supplies, small toys, cards, etc. The box serves as a lap desk and the contents provide hours of entertainment.
steven weber says
clean your car inside and out
Trisha Burgess says
My tip is clear everything out of the car that you won’t need on the trip! This way you can pack everything in that you need and won’t feel cluttered!!
Chavonne H says
Always keep/pack a bag with emergency items in your glove compartment or trunk such as flash lights, water, food, batteries. Also keep a spare tire and a generator.
Cheryl Abdelnour says
If you are traveling in cold weather make sure you have blankets and some survival equipment.Some protein bars, hot chocolate , a metal cup, matches, and a cell phone would be great too!
kelly tillotson says
have lots of healthy pre-made snacks, so you are avoiding fast food all day long!
*kelly
kelly-tillotson@hotmail.com
Dawn Ganey says
Change air filters regularly they improve gas mileage, & keep air in tires to right specs.
Kristen says
Always be sure to check the pressure in your tires.
Rebecca Orr says
My tip is to keep a tool kit, a battery charger, jumper cables, and first aid kit in the car at all times.
Elisabeth says
My car tip is to have a grocery bag in the car for trash, it makes clean up easier!
Cynthia R says
I have some water bottles in the car in case it overheats, it’s an old car so it’s likely to happen at some point.
Jamie Brigham says
I always keep a large comforter in my trunk and a gallon of water as well. You never know when you might break down!!
Christine says
I like bringing along snacks and water. Also our car is kept up on its maintenance.
Thanks for the chance!
Amy stonger says
My tip is to have a printout of travel directions in the event that GPS isn’t available or functioning properly.
courtney b says
bring snacks and always make sure you have plenty of gas!
Daniel M says
always check fluids and tire pressures before going on a car trip
mell says
Check tires, fluids and windshield wipers before leaving for your trip.
amy pugmire says
If you have young kids. electronics. I love to go to go to the dollar store and grab a few new activities and toys for them.
Shawn says
I always keep wet ones in my glove box. I can not tell you how many times we have needed them while traveling.
Jennifer says
Have food prepared in case of emergencies!!
Karen R says
Even if you have a GPS system, keep an old fashioned paper map as a back up plan.
Natalie Brown says
My travel tip is to always have snacks & drinks. Also pillows and blankets are nice. I always make sure I have way more than enough songs on my iPod that appeal to everyone to listen to. Thanks!!
Betty says
have a big picture idea what roads you will drive on. Sometimes people let the GPS dominate the trip. Detours or emergency bathroom stops can be a problem regardless, but stopping for lunch and gas is a must. Kids allowed to get out of the car and run off some energy will be quieter for the next part of the drive.
Oursafehaven says
Always have water and snacks in the car.
Nancy says
I like to have a special bag with me that carries essentials we might need on the road. Items might include snacks, water, tissues, wet wipes, sunglasses and glasses cases, change for tolls, etc. It is nice to have the necessities all in1 handy place when we are traveling.
Laura J says
When traveling with Carter, we always take his small potty chair just in case we cannot make it to a gas station for him!
Alyshia says
Put window shades on kids widows to keep sun from your kids face and keeps car cool.
Debra Hall says
carry a tool box and expect the unexpected
Stacey B says
My car travel tip is to bring food, snacks, pillows, blankets and entertainment to make for a more comfortable ride.
Katie says
always plan for you pet: research animal friendly hotels, parks, and be sure to pack water for them. And NEVER leave them in the car especially on hot summer days.
Crystal says
Before my recent road trip, I picked up a $5 charger on Amazon that worked for both my phone and my ipod, and plugged into my cigarette lighter. SO worth it rather than having to recharge them in an outlet when I stopped somewhere! (I know a lot of newer cars have built-in usb chargers, but mine is old school!)
Wendy Mastin says
my sister-in-law gave all of us at Christmas an emergency box she made up for us to keep in our car. It was a great gift to get because it wouldn’t be something that everyone would do.
April Brenay says
bring a change of clothes, have them handy, sometimes people need a new shirt from getting something drink or snack wise on themselves
Dawn Keenan says
When you’re going on a road trip, make sure to get your car serviced and keep check on your fluids.
Melissa S says
My best travel tip is do not drive tired. Take regular breaks on long trips and stop and sleep if you need to, Don’t push yourself to get there faster.
Jennifer Tilson says
I think it’s always a good idea to bring water and blankets in case you get stranded and have to wait.
amanda whiltey says
my travel tip is to check your spare tire before you go and if you are traveling far it is very wise to get AAA.
darby says
we take tons of snacks that won’t melt!
Sabine B says
Bring blankets and pillows…
Allisha Gold says
Keep some extra snacks in the car with you for those extra long trips to prevent a few stops on the way. It’s also useful in case of emergency if you don’t have any access to food.
andie says
I always have a bag of “car” activities – wordsearches, travel games, books, bingo, and trivia questions…anything to keep everyone busy.
Carol says
I always make sure i keep up with my car’s maintenance
Kim Reid says
I like to keep battery cables and a bottle of antifreeze in the trunk just in case!
Carmen N says
I always make sure we have beverages – especially in the summer, and easy to carry snacks.
Yona Williams says
When traveling in the car, I have to remind myself to create a return trip of directions if I use something like Mapquest. The directions going to your destination is not enough. If there are multiple ways to get to and from a location, I print those out too.
Sarah L says
For a long trip have music to sing along to.
Thanks for the contest.