by Cyndi Li

Created on: November 07, 2008   Last Updated: June 21, 2011

On the surface, it doesn't appear there's any more preparation required for a family road-trip than there is for any other type of road trip. Make sure you've got enough cash to cover all your expenses and a good map with accurate directions, right? Well, actually there's a little more to it than that. You never know what will happen or what you might need while you're out there. Having owned a few clunkers, and all the headaches that come along with them, I'd recommend you do the following to prepare for a family road-trip.

FOR THE FAMILY

Depending on how long your road trip will last, it's wise to pack some snacks and drinks. I always pack non-perishable snacks in case I inadvertently forget and leave them in the car. (I'm only human) I also prefer beverages that come in individual serving containers; they're much easier and neater than drinking from an open cup.

Pack a plastic tote with an assortment of books, drawing pads and a variety of writing instruments. It won't take long for the Boredom Bug to bite the kids, and you definitely want to be prepared to counteract its annoying venom. Board-games designed just for the car as always a winner too.

If your family road-trip doesn't involve any over-night stays be sure to pack a set of spare clothing (suitable for the weather) for everyone who's going. You can never tell when you'll need and extra change of clothing.

A First Aid Kit that includes band-aids, gauze wrap and gauze Pads, first-aid tape, heat blanket, instant cold pack, saline water for rinsing wounds or flushing eyes and antiseptic wipes; no explanation needed.

FOR THE CAR

Be sure all the fluids in your car, including oil, brake fluid, radiator fluid and transmission fluid, are at sufficient levels. Check, and if necessary, adjust your tire pressure. Equip your car with the following safety gear. It may come in handy should the unexpected arise.

Flashlight with working batteries

Jumper Cables

Spare tire, jack and tire-iron (Be sure the tire iron fits the lugs on your tires)

A tool kit that includes, at the very least, a philips head and flat head screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, heavy gauge wire or a coat hanger to tie up your muffler should it come lose (I learned that one the hard way) a wire brush (For cleaning your battery terminals) electrical tape, safety glasses and a pair of work gloves.

Flares or Fluorescent triangles

Water- For filling your radiator up should it overheat

A Gas Can

A Fire Extinguisher (kept inside the cab of the vehicle; not in the trunk)

A can of fix-a-flat. If you have trouble changing a flat tire, just throw a can of fix-a-flat in until you can get to a service station.

A map

While you're on your family road-trip make sure everyone is seat belted in at all times. Don't allow the kids to hang their hands and arms out the windows, and if you stop somewhere, stick together and make sure everyone is in the car before you head out onto the road again; the last thing you need is a Home Alone incident on your hands.

It's wise to have a cell phone with you as well as a car charger for it. And, if you don't already have one, purchase an AAA membership; it's worth the investment.

Having owned more clunkers than I care to admit, I've come to appreciate the value of having what you need at your fingertips should you, unfortunately, break down. Don't learn the hard way like I did; be prepared on your family road trip.

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