Embarking on a cross-country road trip is a vacation you will never forget. From the jaw-dropping views of the Grand Canyon to the golden leaves that blanket New England, you’ll be amazed at the beauty of the United States. However, such a demanding trip means you may find yourself in some tricky situations. Car troubles, crime-ridden areas, wild animals—you name it. Not every corner of America is consumed by fruitful pastures and evergreen forests. This is why it’s imperative that you prepare for every possible situation before you traverse across the country. Here are some ways you can stay safe on your cross-country adventures!
Car Safety
It’s not a road trip without a car. Since your car is what’s going to get you there, you need to make sure it’s fit for the job. It’s probably not the best idea to take a two-door car with over 100,000 miles on it to get you from one coast to the other. Instead, take time to save up and invest in a quality car that will provide you with comfort and peace of mind that you’ll make it to your destination. Or, choose to rent a car for the duration of your trip. This way, your personal car won’t have to endure the long miles ahead.
To ensure you’re fully prepared preserve your car and collect these essential items before hitting the raod:
- A spare tire and car jack in case you get a flat
- A battery jump starter if your car needs a little more juice
- An extra car key if you accidentally leave lose yours in the mountains
- A roadside assistance service
- Your car manual if you need to make a quick repair yourself
- Car registration and insurance information if you happen to get in a fender bender
If you plan on taking the whole family with you in an RV, you may want to take a few extra precautions. To safeguard your RV on a trip, consider additional items such as security cameras, timer lights, a security system, and factory locks so no one tries to break in while you’re away.
Personal Safety
Personal safety is just as important as car safety. Both go hand-in-hand, as a safe car means safe passengers. As you make your way down highways and backroads, you’re most likely going to stop and explore the great outdoors. From mountains to valleys to freshwater rivers, you’ll come across breathtaking views and different ecosystems you thought you’d never see in person. You may also find yourself in dangerous situations that leave you with some cuts and bruises. Pack your car with these items to keep you and your passengers safe:
- A first aid kit with bandages, gauze, antiseptic cream, pain killers, tweezers and scissors
- Pepper spray, whistle, or a personal taser if you find yourself in harm’s way with another person
- Water and hiking food is a must, the last thing you want is hangry passengers complaining in the backseat
- A paper map in case your GPS loses battery
- A flashlight to bring light to dark situations
Implementing these safety measures will ensure your cross-country adventure is an unforgettable one. While you’re traveling, you’re going to be stopping at gas stations, restaurants, and landmarks as well. If you decide to join a public WiFi network, make sure you stay safe online as well. Cybercriminals can easily hack your information over a public network, so make sure your phone and laptop have firewalls and safety measures set in place!
Pet Safety
It’s impossible to resist the look in your dog’s eyes as you head out the door. If you’re taking a long cross-country road trip, you’re probably going to bring man’s best friend. Keeping Fido safe should also be at the top of your priority list. Dogs natural instincts may get the best of them in the Great Outdoors, so make sure you take necessary precautions.
It would be great to think about getting a pet insurance for your dog that will make you feel safer with your pet while two of you are on your cross country adventure.
Fashion them with a dog collar and tracker just in case they happen to go exploring without you. Make sure you also cover them in flea and tick repellant so they don’t get themselves or you sick. Finally, pack a portable dog bowl, plenty of food and treats, and some toys so your pet has just as fun of a time as you do!
Wrapping Up
You shouldn’t spend your week or month-long cross-country road trip on edge with stress and anxiety. Put all your worries at bay with these tips and tricks on how to keep you, your car, and your pet safe on the road!
