Diehl Dodge Chrysler Jeep Pittsburgh

Have you heard the saying that life’s not about the destination, but the journey? The same could be said of your next road trip!

And now that the winter doldrums are squarely behind us, it’s time to gear up for all of your spring and summer travels.

Take a little time to prepare before you embark on your next expedition using these helpful tips:

1. Plan your route — It’s always good to have a plan. Know where you plan to stop for the night and how long it will take to reach your destination. Warmer weather tends to bring construction zone activity. As you research your route, see where you can take alternate roads to avoid construction areas and heavy traffic. If you can afford taking the time to enjoy the windy scenic roads, even better. Just be sure you have a back-up plan in the event a passenger is prone to motion sickness. Know the quickest way to get to the highway.

2. Check your car — Depending on the miles you plan to drive (Cross-country? Down the coast?) and the terrain over which you’ll travel to get there (small town America or big city touring?), you’ll feel better if your car has been inspected prior to your trip. Don’t forget to check the oil and tire pressure. Better yet, stop by Diehl Automotive and let us take care of it all for you. You’ll appreciate that peace of mind when you’re hundreds of miles away.

3. Be prepared for set-backs — Charge your cell phone ahead of time. Also, do you have a spare tire? Do you know how to change a tire? Are you familiar with the warning light symbols on your dashboard? Even with roadside assistance, there may be times when you have to wait for help to come (or in the event of poor reception, your phone won’t do you any good). It helps to know what to do in those situations. Bring a basic repair kit and review how to do the basics. Also, while driving, don’t forget to watch your gauges—it’s easy to get blindsided by an empty gas tank when you get chatting with friends.

4. Gas up — There’s nothing worse than getting started on a long road trip only to discover you have to stop to fill-up and you have no idea when the next exit will be available. We recommend that you take advantage of knowing where to obtain gas at the lowest prices before you leave your local area. And, to drive longer without filling up, use cruise control on the highway. Keep to the speed limit for safety and optimal fuel efficiency. Did you know that using your air conditioning can actually save you money? Driving with your windows down creates a drag effect on your car, causing it to burn more fuel.

5. Pack a trash bag — it’s amazing how fast we accumulate garbage on the road. Bring a dedicated bag for those fast food wrappers, dirty napkins, and empty water bottles. Then all you have to do is dump one bag in the trash can when you make your next pit stop and you’re left with a clean ride.

6. Limit time behind the wheel — We recommend driving no more than 11 hours a day at the most and taking frequent breaks to walk around and stretch. Buffer your itinerary with a little sight seeing or long stops to break up the driving or have a plan to change drivers. You’ll want some leeway to be spontaneous, too, right?

7. Eat Right — Studies have show that apples are great snacks for long road-trips. They take your body longer to digest thereby not making you sleepy like heavy sugary snacks can. Load up a cooler with healthy snacks, sandwiches and fruit so you’re not tempted by gas station candy or soft drinks that ultimately make you feel sluggish and less alert.