Driving safety tips and things to bring

Taking a road trip is always adventure, but not always the adventure you intended it to be. Being prepared is the key to a fun, safe trip.

• Before hitting the road: How to prepare for your trip before hitting the road.
• Personal safety: Some tips on staying safe while you are away.
• Things to bring: A list of things that you should definitely have on your trip.

Be prepared and have fun on your next scenic drive! Start Planning

Before hitting the road

Here are some things to do before hitting the road.

• Make sure that your car’s service needs have all been met. It is usually more pleasant to learn the reason behind that Service Engine Soon light or that new sound when you are near your home.
• Be sure to check that your battery and brakes are in great condition and that your tires are both in good condition and properly inflated. Tires are constantly losing pressure, which can hinder their performance and safety.
• Never leave on a trip without a full tank of gas and make sure that you have plenty of oil. If your car takes special oil or enjoys oil more than gas, consider bringing some with you.
• Wash your windshield, both inside and out, and make sure that you have a pair of sunglasses or driving glasses handy. Keep a clear, focused eye on the road is the best way to avoid mistakes.
• Have a good night’s rest. Do not hit the road tired, and if you feel drowsy while driving, pull over for a little nap or change drivers.
• Check the weather and road conditions, especially at various cities and towns along your route so that you know what to expect or make alternative plans.
• Refamiliarize yourself with your tire-changing equipment. Make sure that everything is in order. Even if you are a member of AAA or a similar roadside assistance program, they may not have the things specific for your vehicle, so be sure to at least have a look and make sure you have everything.
• Don’t drink and drive. Not even a little bit. And if you do, please hand the keys over to someone else.
• Talk about your trip plans to your family and friends and let them know when you are leaving.

Start Planning Top

Personal safety

• Always feel safe. If you don’t feel safe in a particular neighborhood, leave.
• Stay polite and reasonable. If someone cuts you off, just ignore them. If someone wants to pass you, let them. If you want to pass someone, don’t tailgate them. Commonsense goes a long way.
• Don’t drink and drive. We said it above, but it’s serious enough to repeat. If you do, please hand the keys over to someone else.
• Ask for directions. And do not limit yourself just to gas stations. Try stopping for a little snack at a restaurant and ask the server.
• If you use GPS-based directions, please also use common sense with them and be sure to keep your eye on the road at all times so that you are prepared for anything.
• If you are in a group, it is best not to split up, especially in emergencies.
• When passing another car, make sure that the law permits you to and that you can see up the road for some distance.
• If the roads have any moisture on them, take it slow, especially in the curves. Especially along the coast, the roads may have fog that make it hard to see, so slow down. And never be shy to use the pullouts on the side of the road.
• Some of the drives are on both private and public land. Be respectful of both, and remember to leave only footsteps.
• Prefer to drive during the day and preferably one where the roads are dry. Our visibility is much better during the day, making the trip much more enjoyable.

Top

Things to bring

It is best to travel prepared for anything. Here are some items you should definitely bring with you.

• directions to where you are going
• a clear map of the areas you will be driving through
• your cell phone
• some cash
• sunglasses or driving glasses
• sunscreen, sun care products, and lip gloss
• water, food, and snacks for the drive, hike, and your stay.
• warm clothes and a change of clothes.
• consider bringing another pair of shoes.
• a flashlight
• a pad of paper and pencil and pen
• parking meter and phone booth change
• insect repellent
• a first-aid kit that includes
  • adhesive bandages and gauze
  • antibiotic ointment
  • antiseptic hand wipes or soap
  • ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief
  • allergy relief
  • tweezers
  • scissors
  • thermometer
  • adhesive tape
  • iodine and alcohol prep pads
  • insect sting relief pads

Be prepared and have fun on your next scenic drive! Start Planning

Top