If you have children, you may find it expensive and even difficult to use air travel. So, to get to your chosen destination, driving may be the best suitable option. Road trips can also provide an opportunity to enjoy and spend some time with family and friends. Before you hit the road however, there are some steps that you should take to ensure you are prepared.

• Plan and pack activities for the kids. Some ideas include DVD’s (if you have a player), reading or coloring books, magazines, handheld games or puzzles such as word search.

• Don’t forget to pack snacks including bottled water. This will keep you from having to make so many stops.

• Plan your route and print it out in advance as a backup. Even though you may have GPS, remember in some areas you may have no or poor connections.

• If you have time, plan your trip around sightseeing. For example, plan your stops for gas or lunch in cities where you can stop and see landmarks or other attractions.

• Be sure to pack an emergency first aid kit. This kit should include a pain killer, band aids, an antiseptic and stomach medication such as Pepto Bismol.

• Don’t forget cords and chargers for electronics.

• Are pills and other medications packed? Double check before leaving.

• Finally, make sure you have copies of documents that you might need. This includes passports (if needed) and health/contact information in case of emergency.

More importantly however, you’ll want to make sure the car is in tip-top shape for your trip. Complete the below checklist and you’ll be set:

• Get your oil changed if you haven’t done that in a while.

• Top off all other fluids in the car as well. This includes brake fluid, transmission fluid and coolant. Don’t forget windshield washer fluid too as you never know what type of weather you might run in to.

• Check your windshield wipers and replace them if needed.

• Inspect your tires for damage. Be sure to also inflate your tires to the proper PSI before leaving. Bring along a hydraulic service jack, in case you should encounter any tire issues.

• Ensure that all of your vehicle lights are working. Check brake lights, turn signals and interior lighting for late night driving.

• Store items in your trunk in case of emergency. This should include a spare tire, flashlight and tools, along with jumper cables.

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