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