We all deserve a break now and then or a short road trip just to escape the daily hustle and bustle. Often, we tend to embark on far away adventures which we need to be ready for, especially when using our cars. We have put together a list of essentials that we think will take a little of the hassle out of the trip.
- Map: Use an App on your phone or go old-school, either way a map will get you to your destination without the frustrations and wasted time spent on getting lost. Tip a paper map comes in handy when batteries die, or signal gets lost.
- Jumper Cables: These are a must, you never know when your vehicles battery might give you problems. If you are venturing into unchartered territory on your own it might be a good idea to invest in a portable battery charger.
- Spare tyre, jack and tyre iron: When you get a flat tyre, you will need all three of these tools to change the flat tyre. Make sure that you know how to change a tyre properly before taking on the road. You can also invest in a mini air compressor that plugs into your cars 12-volt adapter.
- Emergency numbers: Make sure what the emergency numbers are in the area that you are travelling to save these on your phone and write them down for when an emergency occurs.
- First aid kit: Assemble your own kit or you can purchase a kit from certain stores.
- Flashlight: A flashlight can be a lifesaver in the dark, especially to look under the bonnet of your vehicle when something goes wrong.
- A Multi-functional tool: These make for a great nifty gadget when stuck without a tool box. You get all different sizes and gadgets within these tools so have a look at all the options.
- Snacks & fluids: Keep emergency snacks in the car and fluids such as water or energy drinks just in case those hunger pangs strike or if you get stranded for a while.
- Toilet paper: No explanation needed here 😊
- Paper Towels: These are very handy for those accidental spills or when your hands get dirty from working on the car and fixing the niggles.
- Emergency cash: Just in case you never know when the next ATM will be available, especially in rural areas.
- Extra clothing & a blanket: Keep a change of clothes in the car and a blanket. This will ensure that you stay warm. If your clothes get dirty or wet, then you can change them, and you can even go for an impromptu picnic with the blanket.
The above list is by no means all that you should have in your essentials kit, but they are the items that usually dont get thought of. Whenever you are taking on the road remember that safety comes first. Make sure that you get your car checked before you leave.