Here are some ideas for summer road trips… Depending on how far you’re going, you may find some of these items not necessary. Good to think about it though.

• Driving a camper? Make sure your vehicle is secure and your cargo is not overloaded.
• GPS; preferably one you can speak to without touching and that has a built-in Bluetooth (in cases where you must talk while driving).
• a REAL Map (for backup). I’ve heard stories of GPS’ sending people to farms in the middle of no where, 50 miles in the wrong direction!
• Phone Charger & Phone – an extra phone and/or battery never hurt.
• Proof of Insurance and RoadSide Assistance / BCAA Membership. Do you have OnStar? BCAA? ICBC Road Side assistance? Do you know what your membership number is and/or where your member card is?
• Wheel Rotation / Alignment – Check it before you go. Most roads are crowned (higher in the centre to allow rain water to drain; this wears on tires, even if you drive nicely and don’t hit curbs. It is worth checking it once per year or so).
• Drinking Water and Non-Perishable Food – water bottles are good. You can live without food for a while, but you can’t live without water for very long.
• Flashlight (just in case) with fresh batteries – check and make sure it works.
• First Aid Kid – better to be prepared.
• Check for Detours Drive BC
• Car Checkup VERY IMPORTANT! It’s hard to have a fun road trip without a car that works
• Oil & Filter Change
• Sunglasses, SunScreen, Hats
• Games, Toys, MP3, iPOD, Music – for the Kids
• Flares, Jumper Cables, Jack, Spare Tires, Fire Extinguisher
• Extra Car Keys
• Soccer Ball or Frisbee
• Extra Oil
• Duct Tape, Rope, Bug Spray
• Passport / Nexus Card
• Energy Bars, Nuts, Cereal, Trail Mix
• Extra blankets, pillows, sleeping bags