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Remain Safe And Comfortable During A Road Trip Across The Country

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If you will be driving your vehicle across the country to attend your sibling's wedding and have never traveled alone before, the following tips will assist with remaining safe and comfortable during the trip. 

Tune Up And Emergency Kit

Take your truck to a mechanic to have your vehicle inspected and tuned up. New tires, brake pads, spark plugs, and an oil change will improve your truck's performance, resulting in a smooth ride and the ability to stop quickly if a vehicle pulls out in front of you when you least expect it. Fill a waterproof box with basic tools and accessories, such as a tire gauge, fuses, flares, flashlight, quart of oil, transmission oil, and rags. Place the box inside of your truck's bed so that you can easily access the items if needed during the trip.

GPS, Map, And Notebook

Purchase a Global Positioning System (GPS) if you do not already own one and practice using it around town before leaving for the road trip. Keep track of the distance that you will need to travel throughout the journey and compare the directions that the GPS provides you with along with the ones that are printed on a map. When you stop at a motel or campground for the night, list landmarks that you passed throughout the day and the number of miles that you drove so that you can utilize the information when it is time to return home after the wedding. 

Clothing, Bedding, Food, And Beverages

Fill a suitcase with extra clothing, including a raincoat, sweatshirt, and pants. Pack blankets, pillows, non-perishable food items, and bottled or canned beverages. If any of the food items require a can opener or additional ingredients to prepare them, write a list of the items needed before heading to the store to purchase supplies for the road trip.

Write down a list of people to contact in case of an emergency.  A family member or friend can contact a tow truck company if you do not have the phone number to a local business. Otherwise, call a company that provides road assistance from your cell phone if you encounter an emergency situation. While waiting for a tow truck driver to arrive, turn on your vehicle's emergency flashers and place flares next to your vehicle. You will remain warm and will be able to satisfy your hunger and thirst prior to having your vehicle towed and repaired. 


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