Sometimes getting out and going on an adventure is exactly what we need, especially after prolonged time indoors. As you pack up your car and get ready to see what the world has to offer, be sure to have these things ready to bring along for the ride. Some are for comfort, others are a necessity to stay safe.
Need some travel ideas? Read about our five favorite road trips around King County.
Spare Tire/Jack
Before embarking on a trek, check that your vehicle is up for the task. Take your car to your mechanic and make sure all the bells and whistles are ready for traveling. This includes having a spare tire, car jack, and the know-how to change a tire should the need arise.
Emergency Car Kits
These kits include jumper cables, ropes, flares, and other various tools that range from helpful to necessary if your car has issues on the road.
Physical Map
We love having our phone ready with endless info but when you’re in the middle of who-knows-where your reception may not be as strong as you’d like. Have a map in your glove box ready, just in case your phone isn’t available.
First Aid Kit
Accidents happen and it’s always better to be safe rather than sorry when it comes to any injuries. Quickly treating even the most minor of wounds can get you back on the road to enjoy your trip. If you get car sick easily, consider bringing dramamine to help with the motion sickness.
Flashlights
Flashlights are a good rule of thumb to keep in your vehicle. If for whatever reason you have to pull over at night, a flashlight helps you see – as well as makes sure other drivers can see you.
Snacks/Water
Having a cooler with ice packs, food, and drinks saves you a lot of time while driving and just makes the overall trip more exciting and fun. Bring a garbage bag to stash away any trash and keep it out of the way.
Chargers/Battery packs
Those cables and cords to connect your phone to your car are a must, along with portable charging packs. Don’t forget the car adapters as well!
Hand Sanitizer/Baby wipes
Keeping your hands clean and wiping things up easily are essential when you don’t have a way to wash your hands. Having napkins or towels in your car is also nice when you want to rid your hands of potato chip crumbs. Trust us, there are many needs for a few extra napkins and wet wipes on a long drive.
Pillow/Blankets
Whether you’re driving alone or with a friend, a blanket and pillow are nice for feeling comfortable. In the winter extra blankets can be a lifesaver. Be sure to pull over and take a nap if you’re ever feeling too tired to drive – it’s not worth it to risk falling asleep at the wheel.
Toiletries
Bring your own bag of toiletries so you have your personal products available when and where you need. Consider bringing toilet paper, lip balm, sunscreen, and bug spray because they are great to have in a pinch.
Playlists/Podcasts
Lastly, creating playlists and having podcasts ready are the best way to pass the time when on the road. If you can, download your media to your phone so that they are available should you be out of range of internet access.
And when you return, Glint Car Wash will be here to wash away paint-eating bug juice and other pollutants from the road that you will have accumulated during your trip. Make sure to add a 5-minute vacuum token or purchase our best wash package (which includes one token on the house) so you can clean up all the crumbs after your wash as well!