The Covid Chronicles: 20 Road Trip Essentials | Golden Rules Gal

Date
Jul, 13, 2020

And you’re off!  It may not be to Africa or Antibes, but car travel is the new vacation. As the author of a travel book, prepping for any trip takes time.  Create a checklist much like a shopping list.  If you’re organized prior to leaving, you’ll have more enjoyment on the road and when you reach your destination.  The key is to Pre-pare!

Here’s my long list:

  1. The Obvious. Hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, gloves, infrared thermometer, masks and hand lotion.
  2. Car Audit.  Have it checked out from oil to tire pressure, brake fluid and window washer.  It’s also a good idea to keep the gas tank half full at all times.
  3. Directions.  Not everyone uses GPS, so if you’re a map person have them handy and “mapped” out.  On long trips Wi-Fi might not be an option, so have written directions just in case.
  4. Liquid.  Water and more water.  Depending on how long your road trip is, don’t leave home without it.  Packaged dehydrogenate is not a bad idea.
  5. Entertainment.  Podcasts and books on tape here you come.  Just make sure you agree on one before you get in the car.  Word games are fun too.
  6. Money.  Cash talks, especially if you’re going to remote places.  But be smart;  never leave it in plain sight. 
  7. Phone Charger.  If you have three phones in the car, chances are you’ll need more than one charger.  Stay safe and connected at all times.
  8. First Aid Kit.  This is one of my favorite house warming gifts, and when we don’t bring it with us is when we will need it.
  9. Food.  That cooler that’s been gathering dust in your attic can now get a workout.  Plan for the worst with ample food and beverage and plenty of ice.
  10. Medicine.  Stock pile not only prescriptions but over the counter medicines you may need such as pain or allergy pills.
  11. Sun Essentials.  Sunscreen, sunglasses and hats.  There’s nothing like the feel of a warm sun, but a sunburn is anything but fun. 
  12. Roadside Emergency Kit.  Hopefully you already have one in your trunk; if not now’s the time.
  13. I.D.  Not just your drivers license but credit cards, car registration and insurance, and always emergency contact information.
  14. Flashlight.  Yes, your phone doubles as a flashlight, but keep the old fashioned one handy as well.
  15. Blankets and Pillows.  You may get stranded and have to sleep in the car, which could be cozy.  Bundle up.
  16. Paper Products.  Who knows how long it will be until your next rest stop?  Bring toilet paper, tissues and wet wipes;  you can always use them at your destination.
  17. Visitor’s Checklist.  Have the planner in the family map out sites you’d like to see along the way. You’ll have something to look forward to in between your destination.
  18. Fun.  Never leave home without it.  You’re going to have an adventure a year like no other. 
  19. Driving Checklist.  Plan who will be driving and how long. Everyone needs a break.
  20. Covid-19 Diary. Document the trip and then make an album to remember 2020, the year we will never forget.

Road Trip 2020

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