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Planning and
Packing for the Car Trip
Now that
summer is in full swing, you’re probably ready
to hit the road, whether it’s a family reunion
weekend, a trip to the beach, or a road trip in
the van with the kids. Here are some checklists
to help make your vacation a relaxing and
memorable time. By planning ahead, you will
avoid the stresses associated with missing or
forgotten items.
BEFORE YOU GO—THE HOUSE
·
Notify post office that you will be out of town—complete a Hold Mail
form
·
Notify newspapers to hold delivery
·
Arrange for someone to watch the house, pets and plants
·
Notify local police that you will be out of town—many towns offer a
vacation watch service
·
Put your house in order, change the bed linens and do the
laundry—you’ll appreciate returning to a clean
house and clean clothes
·
Print out driving directions (www.randmcnally.com)
·
Buy snacks and drinks for the road
·
Give itinerary to at least one family member and friend/neighbor
·
Place some lights on timers
·
Unplug small appliances
·
Set air conditioner to higher temp, or turn off
·
Make sure freezer door is closed
BEFORE YOU GO—THE CAR
·
Take car in for servicing—check fluid levels
·
Have oil changed in car
·
Check tire pressure, and condition of tires
·
Make sure all lights are working properly
·
Clean out unnecessary items from trunk
PACKING THE FAMILY
·
Clothing (this is another topic for another article!)
·
Jacket or sweater for cooler temperatures
·
Bathing suits, towels, flip-flops for poolside
·
Toiletries—use travel size whenever possible
·
Sunscreen!
·
Medications—in original pharmacy containers
·
Sunglasses, extra pair of prescription glasses
·
Alarm clock, watch
·
Plastic bags for wet clothing
·
Laundry bag
·
Recreational gear, such as fishing pole, running shoes
·
Deck of cards
·
Personal CD players
·
Camera and film
·
Cellular phone
·
Night light
·
Ear plugs
·
Empty bag or suitcase for souvenirs
·
Tote or backpack for day trips
·
Rain poncho/umbrella
·
Water bottles
·
Extra batteries
·
Phone numbers of family members or friends watching the house
·
Traveler’s checks and money
·
Medical insurance cards
·
Driver’s license or other photo identification
PACKING THE CAR
·
Extra water for the car only
·
Toolkit for roadside emergencies
·
Owner’s manual
·
Insurance card, vehicle registration, auto club membership info
·
Duct tape
·
Jumper cables
·
Extra fuses
·
Air pressure gauge
·
First aid supplies
·
Flashlight and batteries
·
Fire extinguisher
·
Extra keys
·
Pillows and blankets
·
Travel games
·
Plastic bags for refuse
·
Pack items you will need during the trip (cooler, games, snacks, etc.)
separately from suitcases
·
Snacks and drinks in a cooler
·
Moist towelettes for washing hands
·
Paper towels or napkins
·
Roll of toilet paper
WHEN YOU RETURN HOME
·
Turn air conditioner back on, or lower
·
Unpack your car
·
Sort laundry as you unpack your suitcases and start a load
·
Pick up your mail from the post office if it isn’t being delivered
·
Pick up your pets from the boarder
This may seem like a lot to do and remember, but
your goal is to have a safe, fun trip. The
better prepared you are, the better the chances
of having a great time away!
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