Road trips are exciting, but they can also be daunting. We are here to help you plan ahead so you can limit the stress of traveling and maximize the fun! Information on proper packing and keeping your car safe away from home comin’ right up!

Plan, Prepare, Pack

Have you ever arrived at your destination and realized you forgot a crucial item? Or arguably worse…finally getting the kids all buckled in, leaving the house, and then realizing you forgot something? Check and double-check this list of essentials before you hit the road!

Please note: Some of these are winter/summer specific, so just remember to bring what fits your travel season!

For your car:

• Jumper cables
• Tire pressure gauge
• Spare tire (with a tire iron and jack)
• First-aid kit
• Kitty litter or sand

For you:

• Mosquito repellant/bug spray
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Extra clothes, no matter the season
• Blankets
• Wet wipes and a car trash can (Keep your ride clean on the road!)

For your belly:

• A cooler with cold drinks
• Prep-ahead snacks

For your passengers:

• Car games
• Tunes
• Podcasts

It’s definitely better to be over-prepared than under-prepared when you’re away from home! Confirm you have the essentials before setting off on your adventure and put your mind at ease.

Ways to keep your car safe while using it away from home

And while you’re away, whether you’re relaxing on the beach or hiking beautiful trails, we know your ride may sit in a parking lot for days. This means you need an extra safe place for that period of time. Check out some of these tips and take some extra precautions!

Always lock your car

This one you’ve heard before, but it’s really important. We couldn’t give tips about car safety and NOT include the golden rule. Plus, we admit that we’re guilty of forgetting to lock up occasionally. Always remember to hit that lock button on your keychain an extra time or two to be safe.

Embrace anti-theft devices

Most newer cars come equipped with some type of anti-theft device. If your car doesn’t have a device already, you may want to think about getting one. Plus, as if safety wasn’t enough, many insurance companies offer anti-theft discounts.

Pay attention to parking spots

If you’re parking your car for more than a few hours, you’ll want to give your parking spot some thought. Check the area you’re parking in and make sure it seems safe to leave your car there for a while.

Clean out your car

This one can be a hassle but emptying your car at the start of a vacation will mean there’s nothing in there for somebody to steal. Even if you’re not going on a vacation, cleaning your ride will help you feel more organized in your daily life!

Preparedness before a trip can make or break the experience. It’s important to take all the necessary measures to ensure you’re fully equipped for whatever the road may throw at you. Taking precautions to secure your car while you’re not around is also crucial. You want to be sure your car will be waiting for you exactly where and how you left it when you return home from that exciting vacation.