Summertime is here and you’re packing up the car to head out on a road trip. Maybe it’s the beach or the mountains, or simply to see some friends and family – regardless, you want to consider your car’s security. You can spend time creating the perfect itinerary, even curating the best playlist for your ride to guarantee a fun-filled road trip, but none of that will matter if you neglect ensuring your belongings and car are safe on the journey.
1. Keep Items Stored Securely.
The general rule of thumb about not leaving valuables visible in your car still applies to road trips – it is even more important to follow that rule while traveling. There are absolutely going to be moments along the journey where you will have to leave something of value in your car, but luckily we have created a guide showing you the best places to hide belongings in your car while away.
2. Make a Plan – For Fun and For Security.
You’ll enjoy traveling more if you have a solid plan in place. It’s fun to plan your adventures and create a list of things to do along the way or for whenever you reach your destination, but creating a travel plan is equally important. Knowing where gas stations are along your route or the best town for sleeping along the way are all things you can do to maintain safe travels.
If you take the extra time beforehand to prepare your route, you’ll guarantee that you stay overnight in safe towns, which further protects you and your belongings. The same goes for planning ways to prevent a vehicle break-in. We recommend reading through one of our recent blogs to give you great advice on how to minimize your chances at having your car broken into.
3. Have an Emergency Kit Ready.
It can be a few key items or a whole entire emergency kit, but regardless you will be glad you had some supplies whenever you find yourself needing it. Here are a list of things you’ll want to include in your emergency kit:
- Spare tire (bonus if it is properly inflated)
- Jumper cables
- Multipurpose utility tool
- First aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
- Nonperishable foods
4. Stay Alert At All Times.
Staying alert on the road looks like constantly scanning for road hazards, making sure you are staying well rested, and not getting distracted. The best way to maintain your car’s safety is to be a safe driver and practice being aware and alert anytime you are behind the wheel. Do not hesitate to pull over to take a call or ask someone in the car with you to drive for a while so that you can have a break.
5. Check the Weather Before You Leave.
Making sure you’re prepared for all types of weather before a road trip is essential for many reasons. If you are planning a trip in the winter or to a mountainous destination, certain precautions must be considered. Your car may need tire chains or new tires, or you may find that you have never driven in these conditions and feel unconfident. Also, if your journey takes you through unfavorable weather it would be wisest to check your windshield wipers and the tread level on your tires to ensure they can handle those conditions.
6. Ensure Your Car’s Parts Can Handle the Journey.
This point ties into the weather related tip, but it includes much more. It’s best practice to look over the date your car last received an oil change. If it is due soon, it would be best to take care of that before your trip. The same rule applies for tires and batteries. You will thank yourself for checking these things before your trip versus if they became issues while you were on your road trip.
Extra Tip: Know That Pop-A-Lock is Always Here to Help.
Our top priority is always your safety and security. With locations all across the country, we are one call away from helping you unlock your car, prepare extra sets of keys before a trip, and even provide roadside assistance. Visit our website to find a location nearby and to browse the services we offer.
