Summer is upon us and for our family, that means it is the perfect time to start planning some fun filled road trips.

Every year, around this time, I like to start looking into fun things we can do when we are off visiting family around the state or something to just get us out of town for the weekend.

With the planning of road trips, I thought it would also be a great time to share some tips on what you can do to prepare for your summer road trip. Here are 8 great tips to help you prepare.

1. Clean your car! Yes, its only spring but think about everything you did in your car over the winter. For us, we traveled across the state, we visited an indoor water park, we traveled to family member’s homes for the holidays. There was so much in and out of our cars along with the filth of winter, chunks of salt, holiday sweets, etc. that our cars are in need of a good deep clean. Once your car is all clean, make sure to keep it clean on your road trip as well by cleaning as you go!
2. Get your car serviced. Before you hit the open road, it is important to make sure your vehicle is ready to go. Get the oil changed, have your tires rotated and inspected, make sure your brakes are good to go, change your air filter, and top off all of your fluids. What is great is if you take your car to a dealership, like Lustine Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, for an oil change, they will take care of just about all of that for you and let you know if your vehicle is in need of anything else.
3. Preload your electronic devices with entertainment for everyone. Yes, these days cars have the ability to have Wi-Fi and there are mobile hotspots on phones but, I can guarantee that it is easy to lose signal along the way and your kids will not be happy, especially if you are on a very long trip. We always make sure each device has at least one movie they like downloaded to it so they have something to keep them busy.
4. Put Together a First Aid Kit. If you don’t already have one in your car, now it the time to get one. Make sure you have everything you need if someone gets hurt, gets sick, or something happens. Always be prepared. In addition to the regular first aid kit, we like to make sure we have a blanket, a package of baby wipes and a gallon of water with us for emergencies.
5. Check Your Paperwork. Make sure you have a copy of your insurance and registration. Remember, laws vary from state to state and it is always best to have everything on hand. Also, make sure your license is up to date with your address or that it hasn’t expired and don’t hit the road if you have any unpaid tickets!
6. Extra Outfits. Even though you are traveling and will probably have a suitcase filled with clothes with you, make sure you have one outfit for each person that is easily accessible in case someone needs to change to illness, spills or ‘accidents’.
7. Plan for Stops Along the Way. One of the best things about road tripping is to stop and check out different roadside attractions. Before you leave, plan your route and see what kind of fun things there are along the way to visit. This gives you a chance to stretch your legs, use the bathroom, burn some energy, etc. Don’t miss out on seeing the world’s largest ball of twine.
8. Be Prepared for Things Not to Go As Planned. This is one thing I always need to tell myself. As much as I try to plan everything out and prepare for every little thing that I can, I have kids, they are young and things don’t always go as planned. By telling myself this, a few times, when something comes up, I find I am less stressed and able to deal with the changes.

Summer is just around the corner so get your road trip planning started today! Want to plan a trip with more people? Consider renting a bus from Amarillo bus rental! If you are looking for ideas on places to visit or stops to make along the way, we are always happy to offer some ideas!