What to Bring on Your Road Trip

Having a few things in the trunk can make your road trip a lot less stressful and a whole lot more enjoyable. My recommendations are as follows:

1. GPS Device. There's nothing like being told when to turn right or left, it's almost like having your spouse onboard!
Seriously, these things are inexpensive, work great, and are very reliable. You could also purchase a GPS App for your I Phone, if you prefer. If you are leery of electronics, or are simply cheap to spring for a GPS, buy a road atlas.

2. Fluids. Throw a gallon of coolant, a couple of quarts of oil, a quart of transmission fluid, and a container of brake fluid in the trunk. The idea is to be able to get yourself to a repair facility should you develop a leak in the middle of nowhere.

3. Basic Tools. Throw a pair of needle nose pliers, vice grip pliers, Phillips head and slotted screwdrivers, some bailing wire, and duct tape into your trunk. Also include a few pair of thin rubber gloves to keep your hands clean. The  idea is to be able to fix simple problems (such as wiring your muffler  up off the road, or fixing a leaking hose) than to enable you to do involved roadside repairs.

4. First Aid Kit and Flares.  Keep a basic first aid kit in the car, and replenish it when necessary. There's nothing as frustrating as opening the kit with a bleeding finger to find that the last bandaid has flown the coop. Flares are easy to use and if used in accordance with directions, are safe. If flares scare you, buy a set of reflectors to warn other drivers of the position of your car.

5. Cell Phone and  Charger.  Does anyone not have a cell phone? If you don't have one, borrow one along with a charger that can be plugged into your cigarette lighter.

6. Jumper Cables. Buy a good set of jumper cables (the heavier the copper cable the better, and the longer the better also) and keep them in your trunk. I will describe how to "jump" your car in another blog post. Print out the instructions and keep them with your cables.

7.  A Sturdy Jack and Lug Wrench. Have you ever used your jack and lug wrench to change a flat? If not, get it out and make sure that: (i) they work, and (ii) that you know how to use them. The jacks included with some cars are sometimes undersized and difficult to operate. If that is the case, buy a sturdy jack at a parts supply shop. Read my blog article on how to change a tire. While you are at it, check the air in your spare (if it has air).