This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). All opinions are 100% mine.
In our family, summer means road trips. Whether we are heading to Grandma's house or to the beach for the weekend, if we are traveling it is usually by car.
Road trips are a summer staple for millions of families like ours. As a mom, I'm extra aware of the need to not only carefully plan out our road trips but to also make sure that we are being as safe as possible when we hit the road.
Are you heading out on a summer road trip this year? I have everything you need to know to stay safe, along with free printables to make planning your road trip simple.
Your Road Trip Safety Checklist
When I'm planning a family road trip safety is my number one priority. It might take a little extra work, but making sure that we are prepared is well worth the effort to keep my family safe. How do I prepare for a summer road trip? Here's a quick run down of what to do to stay safe on the road.
Before You Go
The first thing to do when you're planning a road trip (or honestly, any time you'll be on the road) is to make sure your vehicle is in proper condition. Check to see if you have any open recalls and if so, make sure to get them fixed.
I just had a recall on my car to repair a problem with the lift gate, and it was super simple (and free!) to have it fixed. If you don't get recall notifications, you can use the VIN lookup tool from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to search for your vehicle.
The next step is to give your vehicle a basic safety checkup. Check your tires and fluids, and have your oil changed if necessary. Make sure wiper blades are in good shape and that your air conditioning is working properly.
Once your vehicle is good to go you need to start planning your trip. Plan out your route, noting places you can stop for gas or food as needed. I also like to check for parks or playgrounds where we can let the kids run off some energy on extra long trips.
Double check the weather forecast for your driving days, and if there is severe weather in your path you may consider adjusting your plans.
Finally, be sure to pack a car emergency kit. I never leave home without one! Make sure your kit includes food, water, jumper cables, first aid supplies, and a phone charger that works in your car (or an extra battery).
Safety First
Make sure that all your passengers are safe before heading out on the road. Adults should wear seat belts, every time and every trip.
Children need to ride in a safety seat that is properly installed and appropriate for their age and weight. If you're in doubt, get your car seat checked by a professional. You can find car seat checks at many fire stations and even some car dealerships. Even when they've outgrown a car seat, the back seat is safest for kids under 13.
On the Road
Once everyone is buckled in it's time to hit the road! As the driver, you need stay alert and minimize distractions so you can focus on the road. Pack your phone away, and plan for breaks where you can get out, stretch, and check messages when you need to.
Plan some fun activities for the car to entertain the kids and let you focus on your driving. Audiobooks are one of our favorite ways to pass the time together!
Finally, remember to share the road and drive defensively. We're all trying to get to our destinations safely, and being mindful of others will help make sure that happens for everyone.
Get Your Printable Road Trip Safety Checklist & Planner
Ready to start planning your road trip? I have two FREE printables to help you along the way!
Start with my Road Trip Safety Checklist. This printable page will make sure that you take care of everything you need to before heading out on the road.
Then use my Road Trip Planning Guide to plan your trip!
This page fits nicely in any planner and is perfect for planning your safety prep, making a packing list, a to do list, and even making notes on the weather.
Grab both printables in one FREE set by clicking on the button below.
FREE
Stay safe this summer! Read more of the NHTSA’s summer driving tips before you hit the road.
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