by Kevin Lamb

Created on: December 09, 2008   Last Updated: April 02, 2012

Anytime a trip is taken in your vehicle remember; the most important part of your trip is the planning. The car is usually checked out before the trip to make sure it's roadworthy; but what about ourselves? Would we be able to sustain our self and our family with what we had in our car if something unexpected happened during the journey?

Pre-planning for a trip is especially important in the winter months, when Mother Nature can change your plans at the drop of a hat. Every year millions of travelers hit the road for that much awaited trip; but some of these trips are cut short by the unexpected.

In 2006 The Kim family was stranded in Oregon, which made a lot people aware of the many hazards which we can be overcome by when we least expect it. Just a few essentials carried along with you in your car will help you to survive even the most severe weather nature can offer.

A West Virginia man survived from starving to death by eating taco sauces which he kept in his car. These packets of sauce are what sustained him long enough to be able to tell his story today. If you were to leave tonight on a trip would there be enough in your car to: give you nourishment which would be needed to sustain you for several days, dry your clothes if they got wet, signal for help if it was needed, or build a fire to keep you and your family warm? Here are some ideas which may help you and your family survive the elements of winter should an emergency arrive.

1. Document your trip. Before you leave on any trip always be sure that at least two people are aware of your trip. Make sure that they are aware of the exact route which you're taking, and who is making the trip with you. Make sure that all of your arrival and departures times are also known to these people.

2. Plan your route. Even if you know the area in which you are traveling, make sure you familiarize yourself with the surrounding area; due to construction and road closers. Keep an atlas handy in your car because your trip may be altered. At least become familiar with the surrounding areas just in case of an emergency happens, and you have to travel these unknown roads. Make sure you call and notify the others of these route changes.

3. Get your car road worthy. Make sure all of the necessary essentials are packed and ready for the trip. This "road worthy" is not only for the driving of the car; but road worthy in case you have to live out of it for several hours; or several days.

Store in your car an "Auto organizer."

• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next Page >>