Essential Tips for Summer Road Trip Safety

Buckle Up for Fun: Essential Tips for Summer Road Trip Safety

The final school bell has rung, and freedom calls! Nothing beats the excitement of piling the family in the car for a summer adventure. Whether you’re heading to sandy beaches, mountain hideaways, or visiting grandparents across the country, summer road trips create lasting memories. Let’s make sure your journey is filled with laughter, not worry, by keeping everyone safe and sound along the way.

Get your Ride Ready for Adventure

Think of your car as the trusty steed that will carry your family on fun adventures. Before you load up the snacks, games, and luggage, give your vehicle some love with a health check.

  • Check your tires (don’t forget the spare tire)
  • Top off all of your fluids
  • Make sure your battery has enough charge
  • Test your brakes
  • Make sure your AC is ready for the trip
  • Double-check all of your lights and signals

A quick visit to your local neighborhood mechanic can catch any sneaky issues before they crash your vacation.

Beat the Summer Heat Like a Champion

Sunshine is fantastic, but its rays can turn your car into an oven faster than you can say, “Ice cream stop!” Here is how to stay cool.

  • Never leave kids or furry family members in a parked car, not even for a minute, to run into a store.
  • Hunt for a shady parking place
  • Use a windshield sunshade when you park
  • Keep extra water bottles for everyone

Road Trip Survival Kit

Pack your car with road trip essentials.

  • First Aid Kit
  • Water
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Phone chargers
  • Warning Triangles
  • Roadside Assistance phone numbers
  • Sunscreen and bug spray

Keep Everyone Happy and Alert

Long drives can make even the most enthusiastic traveler a bit drowsy, especially when it is hot outside.

  • Get a good night’s sleep before you hit the road
  • Take turns driving if you have multiple licensed drivers
  • Stop every couple of hours to stretch and take a break
  • Avoid driving at night
  • Stay hydrated
  • Watch for signs that the driver needs to take a break.

Watch the Weather

Summer weather can be unpredictable. Stay prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

  • Check the forecast before you leave and when you stop. Consider downloading a weather tracker app to your phone
  • Drive safely in heavy rain and keep an eye out for flooded roads, especially in low areas
  • Have a backup plan for severe weather. Sometimes the best adventure happens during an unexpected detour.

Your summer road trip should be filled with family sing-alongs, playing silly car games like “I Spy”, discovering roadside attractions, and creating stories you will tell for years to come. With a little prep work and these safety tips, you are set for an incredible family adventure that is both fun and safe. We hope you and your family make lots of lasting memories this summer!

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