Get Your Car and Home Road-Ready by guest writer Maria Cannon
Are you ready to hit the open road? Are you dreaming of distant destinations, fun experiences, and family time together? No matter where your destination is, planning before leaving on a big road trip can save you from potential stresses along the way. From packing your car with essentials to ensuring that both your home and car are in tip-top shape for a long journey, A Walk in the Park With Colleen shares how you can prepare for an epic cross-country voyage or weekend getaway.
Do a full check on your vehicle
The first thing you should do when preparing for a long-distance journey is to check your vehicle for travel readiness. Allstate notes that this includes checking oil and fluid levels, the brakes, and tire pressure and inspecting belts and hoses for signs of wear or tear. Make sure to also check if all lights and indicators are working properly, as well as the windshield wipers and horn.
While you’re at it, don’t forget to stay up to date with your vehicle’s maintenance records by scanning receipts and invoices. This is best done with mobile scanning apps that provide a convenient way for users to store digital documents instead of carrying a bunch of papers around. With a PDF scanner, you can quickly and easily capture any document or image from your device’s camera and convert it into a PDF.
Stock up your car’s emergency kit
Having an emergency car kit could prove to be life-saving in a pinch – from giving you peace of mind when driving long distances to coming through for your family if you’re ever faced with unforeseen events. Assemble a life-saving care package as soon as possible by stocking up on non-perishable food items and blankets. Most importantly, don’t forget essentials like a first aid kit and batteries, too. This kit may just save the day.
Revisit your auto insurance coverage
Get in touch with your insurance provider to determine whether or not you’re covered for the length of your journey and if any changes need to be made to your car insurance policy. Even if it’s only a brief vacation, it’s important to have reliable insurance to stay safe and avoid unexpected expenses should an accident occur. Taking the extra step to review, understand, and adjust your auto insurance coverage will give you peace of mind knowing that you are fully prepared for a worry-free adventure.
Map out your route
One of the most important steps as you get ready for a long-distance journey is mapping out your route beforehand. With a proper itinerary in hand — complete with alternative routes, if needed — you can avoid unexpected detours or delays during your travels. Plus, having a go-to roadmap will give you peace of mind throughout your journey.
Let neighbors know about your trip
Get your neighbors on board before setting off to explore. Notifying those who live close by that you’ll be away for a while gives everybody an added sense of security. Wanderlust and Lipstick points out that they can keep an eye on your home and be on the lookout for unusual activity. You can then rest easy during long vacations or business trips, knowing that someone is looking out for you.
Unplug small appliances
As you prepare for your big road trip, unplugging small appliances is essential. An unplugged appliance decreases the chances of an electrical fire. It can be easy to overlook small appliances, but unplugging them while you are away will avoid overheating, which may cause a spark that could start a blaze. Though fires are rare, prevention is the key to peace of mind, so don’t forget this crucial step before hitting the road.
Arrange for pet care
If you’re embarking on a journey for more than just a short weekend, it’s best to make pet care arrangements. As much as we love our furry friends, they can’t be left unattended indefinitely without supervision or sustenance. Reach out to your nearest and dearest or look into trusted pet care centers or boarding facilities.
Light up your home
To mitigate the risk of burglary and unwelcome intrusions, set up lights on a timer at strategic points around your home. This will give the illusion that someone’s around, even if you’re away. Alternatively, consider hiring a house sitter to ensure extra security while your residence is unoccupied.
Upgrade your home security
Upgrade your home with modern security features to increase protection and value. Create a secure oasis by outfitting it with surveillance cameras, motion detectors, or burglar alarms. Your investment in the safety of your residence will not only give you peace of mind but also provide an added incentive when selling — buyers can rest assured that their future abode is well-protected and up-to-date on advanced security measures, driving up your home’s value.
A road trip can be a great way to see the country and spend time with family or friends. But before you hit the open road, it’s important to make sure your car is in good condition and that you have all the necessary documentation. You should also take some precautions at home. By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
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A Walk in the Park With Colleen makes sure everyone has a great time at Disney by helping them plan their days in the park at Disney. Reach out to Colleen today to learn more! 518-265-1421
