As summer winds down that means Labor Day is on its way. For some that means a road trip (or two). As important as planning the trip, making sure the car is outfitted with the essentials is key to a low-stress trip.
Summer heat can be hard on vehicles causing engines to overheat, tires to blow out or even a dead battery. Many people don’t think about the most obvious essentials that they should keep in their vehicle at all times, not just for a road trip. According to AAA, 4 out of 10 American drivers are unprepared in the event of a breakdown.
8 ITEMS EVERY DRIVER NEEDS FOR A STRESS-FREE ROAD TRIP
Mobile Phone Charger
Probably one of the most popular items this day and age but also one of the most forgotten items, a mobile phone charger or other portable power supply is a must in cases of emergency. A phone’s battery can be depleted very quickly when traveling through different areas, especially if maps or a GPS is being used on the phone.
Flashlight or Warning Device
Many flashlights on the market now can be used in different modes. Look for one that can provide a solid light, flashing strobe or SOS flashing signal. This way the light can be used as a warning device to other drivers as well as providing light in dark situations. Many flashlights can even magnet to the vehicle and provide hands-free assistance. The FlexiGlo is a great option!
First Aid Kit
Most drivers do not think to put a first aid kit in their vehicle. A small zippered first aid kit can fit conveniently in the glove compartment or spare tire wheel well and can be very useful on family road trips. All it takes is one trip or scrape of the knee to ruin a vacation if not treated immediately.
Portable Jump Starter
Road trip horror stories seem to start with a dead battery in the middle of nowhere and no way to jump start the vehicle. Portable Jump Starters are the perfect road trip companion and many drivers don’t even know they exist. Small enough to fit conveniently in the glove compartment, a portable jump starter can power a vehicle with the push of a button. No additional vehicle required! Many portable jump starters like the MIGHTY even feature a flashlight and a USB charger for charging mobile devices combining three of the items on this list into one convenient package.
Power Inverter
Take the stress out of a family road trip by outfitting the vehicle to power everyone’s portable electronics. A small power inverter like the XP400i installed in a vehicle can provide power for portable DVD players, gaming systems and laptops. Kids fighting over the only 12V power plug can derail a family road trip faster than a flat tire!
Dash Camera
Vehicle Dash Cameras provide both safety and fun for a road trip. With the ability to record while the customer is driving, footage can be used in insurance claims in the case there should be an unfortunate accident during a trip. A dash camera like the D14VR can record the road trip and provide fun video the family can go back and watch and send to family and friends.
Wireless Cell Phone Headset
Some states require a wireless headset when using a cell phone in a moving vehicle. When traveling with a car full of kids, a wireless headset provides a great way to stay connected without endangering the safety of those in the car – or annoying them!
Radar Detector
A speeding ticket is the last thing a customer wants to have to deal with while on vacation. A radar detector provides an easy way to alert you to the presence of police radar or remind you when you’re speeding when on the road. There are many different options available on radar detectors that are on the market today including some with GPS to alert you to the locations of red light and speed cameras. No need to spend that $250 on a ticket when you can spend it on fun instead! Check out our entire line of radar detectors here.
So, whether you are making an epic cross-country road trip or just going to the next town over for a little R&R, make sure they are prepared for a stress-free trip!