Travel: Before You Leave

As someone who drives over 2,100 km each holiday season to visit family members and making several stops along the way, here are a few tips to keep in mind and your sanity:

Before You Leave

Plan your route. Get a variety of maps.

Make sure someone knows your master road trip plan and stick to it.

Have your car serviced for winter including having the oil changed, checking the tires, adding below zero windshield washer fluid, etc.

Be sure to have a cell phone fully charged and with lots of extra minutes or the pay as you go plans.

Check the spare tire and jack.

What to Take

Travel as light as possible. If you are buying gifts, think of gift cards or small items.

Pack into a laundry basket taking out only what you need at each stop. Put dirty clothes etc. into plastic bags.

Have light snacks and drinking water in the car.

Make sure you have a good road assistance kit complete with flares and flashlight.

On Your Trip

Call ahead to each stop. Let them know your route and estimated time of arrival (ETA). If you deviate, call and let someone know.

Always check driving conditions, the weather, traffic tie ups and construction ahead. This way you will always have time to adjust the chosen route to a better one.

Stop frequently and stretch. 10 minute stops every couple of hours really make a difference and will help to alleviate stiff muscles.

Enjoy yourself. Don’t get caught up in the hassles of travelling unprepared. This is supposed to be a happy experience.

Pamela Furniss
Experienced Traveller
Changing Gears Inc.

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