Modern version of "Continental Tire", on rear of a fullsize Dodge Ram Van (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Any road trip can make a most thrilling and fun vacation–maybe even educational. However, if you have mechanical or other car problems, it can completely ruin the experience, and make for one expensive trip back home. This is especially troublesome for those who have a disability. Be prepared in the event of a breakdown, and you will have no concerns in the back of your mind when you set off for your trip.
Before departing on your road trip ask yourself if you should have your car serviced by your most trusted mechanic? When was the last time it had a tune up and a check up that paid particular attention to the belts and hoses? Is it making any unusual sounds or vibrations at highway speeds? Is something just not right? The last thing you need is a major mechanical issue during your vacation, especially in the middle of nowhere, miles away from any reputable service station! For those of us with mobility or health concerns, this become an even greater concern.
It’s a good idea to take your car in and have an experienced mechanic determine whether or not your car will be sound for the duration of your trip. It’s far better to sacrifice a little time before your trip than lots of time and money when you are far away from home.
Check all the fluid levels in your vehicle. Make sure the oil, coolant, transmission, and brake fluid are all close to their optimal levels–and that those fluids are fresh in order to perform their functions efficiently. When it comes to tire pressure make sure to keep it at the manufacturer’s recommendation, as this will be safer, and even save you on fuel costs. Driving with under-inflated tires can cause damage and over-heating of the tires; over-inflating can reduce your riding comfort.
Different vehicles and engine types have their own unique oil change requirements. For example, a hybrid only needs its oil changed once every ten thousand miles. If you are taking a hybrid, you may not need an oil change for the duration of your trip. However, if you’re taking a standard vehicle you may need to stop along the way for an oil change, especially if you are driving more than 5000 miles (or 8000 kilometers).
If you will be driving a lot, it would be a good idea for you take a GPS or at the very least a good atlas or map set. This will help you get to your destinations in a more timelier and less costly manner.
If you happen to get a flat tire do you know how to change a tire? Are you physically capable of each of the parts of the process, such as lifting the spare from the trunk. If you are capable, you may want to review your owners manual to make sure that the procedure is clear to you. If you are not able to meet the physical demands, it would be a good idea to join a travel club that can provide such emergency services.
Also be certain that your spare is good. Some spares end up sitting in the trunk for years on end unchecked, have no pressure, and sometimes are even punctured. Ensure your spare tire is usable before you leave, so that you are ready should you get a flat.
Make sure you have a tool kit that contains any emergency supplies you may need. This is a good idea even if you are not capable of using the tools yourself. You never know when a kind motorist might stop to assist you who may not have his or her own tools to accomplish what is needed. Equipment to make minor mechanical fixes, a tire iron, some water and food for a few days, and a simple first aid kit, should keep you sane should the worst happen. Of course, depending upon your own mobility or health requirements, you may need to also carry along extra medicine, batteries or other supplies.
Road trips can be great fun, but if something bad happens the fun is overshadowed by the problems. In order to be certain that the fun can continue, you need to be prepared for the worst, so that you will have the peace of mind that permits an enjoyable and safe trip.
There’s fun and then there’s family fun, and even though you might not consider there to be a difference between the two, many of our Bluegreen resorts insist there is. In fact, many Bluegreen resorts are located pretty much anywhere fun is found–family activities, theme parks, live entertainment, and more! Capture the moment when the kids play with their favorite cartoon characters in America’s favorite family vacation destination, Orlando, Florida. Watch them laugh and cheer at a live show filled with fun for the entire family in Branson, Missouri, the “Live Music Capital of the World.” Dabble in chocolate in Hershey, Pennsylvania; jump into some water park fun in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin; or, simply enjoy each other’s company as you splash in the ocean during your next Florida vacation in The Florida Keys. ________________________________________________________________ www.colorfulplaces.com Click here to see Travel Guides for Family Fun. ________________________________________________________________ Follow us on: Facebook – www.facebook.com Twitter – twitter.com Flicker – www.flickr.com ________________________________________________________________ www.colorfulplaces.com Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Boca Raton, FL, Bluegreen Corporation (NYSE:BXG) is the leader in providing Colorful Places to Live and Play® through its vacation ownership resort and residential real estate business segments. Our more than 3500 employees are passionate about delivering …
www.TravelVideoPostCard.com Riviera Maya along Mexicos Caribbean coast has become famous for Mayan cities like Tulum. But the Riviera Maya has also become a favorite travel vacation destination, because the Riviera Maya in Mexico has broad stretches of beach and elegant hotels like the Royal. The Royal Hotels along the Riviera Maya are all inclusive hotels that boast very friendly staffs and exceptional service http Twitter: bit.ly Facebook: bit.ly Blog: bit.ly
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Part 7 in a series of 9 vintage video clips recovered from reel to reel film taken in the early 1950′s showcasing Alexandria Minnesota as a vacation destination. Very unique piece of history!! For current Alexandria travel, hotel, or vacation information – please visit www.alexandriaminnesota.org
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