Whether you have a few hours or a few days to spare, summer time is road trip time! That means it’s time to grab your gear (kids included), drop the windows, and make sure Aunt Edna is firmly strapped to the roof. If travelling Clark Griswold style isn’t quite what you had in mind we can help. We’ve compiled a list of gadgets and must-not-forget items that can save you money and make your journey more enjoyable!
For your Car:
- Get a GPS: If you or someone you know would rather drive in circles than ask for directions a GPS is a face saving solution. Many models help you avoid traffic snarls, find the nearest restaurant and gas station. GPS devices for your car are no longer an expensive option, with a starting price of $80 for models available. Most come with mounts that affix to your windshield, or for the ultimate cool factor, Garmin now offers a Heads Up Display or HUD not unlike what you find in the cockpit of a fighter jet! Before takeoff, just make sure you download the latest updated road information to avoid any surprises.
- Radar Detector: Avoid the costly ticket you get just outside of some sleepy, far-flung tourist trap that cuts into the trip budget. You may have been going the same speed as everyone else, but sometimes being at the back of the pack will make you the easy target!
- A portable Air Compressor can be a life saver: Requiring only 12-volts to run, it plugs into the cigarette lighter plug. A portable air compressor allows you to avoid being stranded with a flat. These are also good for inflating water toys, bicycle tires and sports balls.
- Roadside Emergency Kit: Another item for your spare tire compartment, a decent kit will include jumper cables, flashlight, batteries and gloves. If it’s not already included in the emergency kit of your choice, consider a flashlight that you can wear on your head. Trying to change a tire while holding your cellphone for a light source isn’t easy. LED lights use much less power and reduce the risk of you running out of battery power when it counts. A Hand-crank powered radio and flashlight is a great addition to any emergency kit for home or the road. For added security, toss some bottled water in your kit.
- Wet Wipes: Because stuff happens.
For your People:
- A solid playlist: You can only talk for so long – or maybe someone in the car does nothing but talk. Make a CD and save relationships. A long road trip is where Sirius Satellite Radio really comes in handy. Hours of music, news or comedy can be at your fingertips even in stretches where terrestrial radio isn’t an option. For personal tune solutions, an iPod or MP3 player allow you to store more music or audio-books than you could ever get through on a single trip. Don’t forget some small speakers or a portable radio/cd player for when you arrive at your destination.
- Portable DVD player: Car manufacturers have caught on that a quiet car is a happy car. To that end many new vehicles are equipped with DVD players that parents will testify can be sanity savers. If your vehicle isn’t equipped with one – don’t worry – we have you covered!
- Device charging solutions: Think it through. What are you bringing? Are there enough outlets in the car? One great solution is a mobile battery pack. These allow you to free up an outlet and when fully charged, can run your phone for much longer than its internal battery. You can also use it to recharge your phone. It’s important to remember some cell phone cases block charge cables from making a solid connection so it helps to secure your device in place with some kind of universal mount. This prevents wires from coming loose around corners or over bumps. In a pinch, there’s nothing worse than discovering your phone is dead or dying because it hasn’t been charging.
- Bluetooth: In most provinces and a growing number of states being hands-free when using your cellphone is the law. There are a range of Bluetooth headsets available with some even giving you the ability to dictate and listen to text messages. Alternatively, there are also Bluetooth enabled speakerphones available for your car. Sync it up with your phone and keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel!
- Sun protection: This is not just a consideration once you have arrived at your destination. It is entirely possible to get sunburnt on one side of your body on long drives. Lotion up and don’t leave home without your sunglasses!
- Bug protection: As road trips are to summer, so too are bugs. Aside from the discomfort, Lyme Disease and West Nile Virus are both transmitted by species of mosquitos and ticks found across most of North America. As always, a repellant with a higher concentration of Deet will do the trick. If you are repelled by liquid repellant there are dry options including a new clip-on device from OFF!. For kids who squirm over sprays, insect repellant wipes may be a better option. Also, don’t leave home without the AfterBite!
- Travel Insurance: Especially if you plan on crossing the border. Know you and your family are well-covered.
For your Pets:
- Food: It may seem a no brainer but many people simply don’t bring enough to cover contingencies such as road closures, lengthy detours or a change of plans. Give yourself some flexibility and bring enough for at least two extra days. Also remember to pack any medication your pet may need.
- Food and water dishes: Some dogs and cats may prefer the same dishes they use at home – but you may want to consider something you can seal up between stops.
- Litter supplies for cats including a scooper. For dog owners, don’t forget some bags.
- ID Tags with contact info: A surprising number of cats and dogs are found without a collar or ID tag. An ear tattoo or RFID tag alone won’t help you much if your pet goes missing far from home. A tag with a cellphone number on it can save a lot of tears and trouble. Also have a recent picture and description of your pet with you.
- Certificates: If you plan on crossing the border, make sure you have all your paperwork with you and in order – just in case you are the person they actually ask that day!
Summer road trips are where memories are made – make them the right kind. Come in and see us before you go!
