| Driving cross country, it's considered the ultimate road | | | | Checking your tires for correct pressure and foreign |
| trip. Having the independence of seeing the Country in | | | | objects like nails or worn treads is a necessity before |
| a way that is not possible by taking a plane is a very | | | | starting your journey. If you see anything out of the |
| satisfying and liberating experience. The drive can also | | | | ordinary on your tires, have them checked or replaced |
| be a tough one. For those who haven't driven for long | | | | by a mechanic before the trip. And of course, you |
| periods of time, the trip can be grueling unless you're | | | | absolutely must check your spare. Your spare will be a |
| mentally and physically prepared. I have made the trip | | | | life saver if you blow a tire in the middle of nowhere. |
| four times, each time getting easier gaining experience | | | | Next, an oil change. During the course of the 3000 plus |
| of the do's and don'ts related to the drive. Your trip | | | | miles you'll be driving, you'll have used up the |
| needs to be well planned out starting with what time of | | | | recommended duration of a normal oil change interval |
| the year you want to travel to how much weight is in | | | | in a matter of a few days. A few extra quarts of oil is |
| the car. These factors will seriously affect your trip | | | | a good idea if your car is burning more than normal |
| and can determine how long it will take you to get to | | | | amount of oil. In the same category as oil, the other |
| your destination. | | | | vital fluids in your car should be checked; radiator, |
| In my experience, spring and fall are best for traveling. | | | | brake, power steering and even windshield wiper fluid |
| Your car will perform better in milder weather; you'll | | | | must be checked and filled if low. |
| burn less oil and get better gas mileage not running | | | | Now that your car is in shape to make the journey, |
| your air conditioner if traveling in the summer heat | | | | you need to pack for the trip. Depending on who is |
| which is extremely hard on your car, and you'll also | | | | traveling with you, there are a few options to consider. |
| avoid ice and snow if traveling in the winter. Roads are | | | | Comfortable clothes like sweats are ideal since you'll |
| a lot rougher in the winter since icy roads and snow | | | | be sitting for long periods of time. Having a light |
| take their toll creating potholes and other road hazards. | | | | weatherproof jacket is also needed. Flashlight, |
| Milder weather will also make your trip easier if you | | | | batteries, a gallon of water are a must have. Getting a |
| happen to blow out a tire or run into some car trouble. | | | | gas card is something to look into, having a separate |
| Sitting in a car that does not start in the heat of the | | | | card that is not in your wallet but in your glove |
| summer or cold of winter is not fun. If you happen to | | | | compartment is a smart idea just in case you happen |
| breakdown, you can still enjoy being outdoors while | | | | to loose your wallet, you can still buy gas and get to |
| waiting for assistance. | | | | your destination. |