Perfectly Practical #125 - Traveling in Warmer Climates

Maybe it's the journey full of possibility or maybe it's the freedom of being the captain of your own destiny, but whatever it is, a summer road trip is as American as apple pie.

And this weekend, Labor Day weekend, is the last weekend to do a summer road trip for many families.

Just like with traveling in cold climates, considerations need to be made for travelling in warmer climates.

Please take note of special considerations for children, the elderly, and animals.  Never leave any of the aforementioned in a hot car!  EVER!

Do think about getting your car tuned up before you take it for a long trip.  Top up fluids, get gas, change the oil, air up the tires, the whole shebang the day before.

If at all possible, set out early or late so that it isn't so hot outside while you are on the road.

In case your car overheats, consider making a special road-trip bug out bag.  Just pack a backpack with your medications, wet wipes, water or Gatorade, a little cash, and important paperwork so if you had to leave your car and walk to find help, you would at least have some necessities.

Make sure that all living creatures in your care for the duration of the trip are well hydrated at all times.

• A reflective blackout screen for your windshield
• Water bottles
• Cell phone and GPS chargers
• Ice in a cooler  
• Food in a cooler 
• Swimsuit, you might stop at a city park with a splash pad en route to your destination
• Sunglasses
• Black garbage sacks
• First aid kit
• The lightest clothes possible without being indecent
• Flashlight
• Pocketknife
• Sunscreen, you can easily get sunburned through the car windows
• Baby wipes
• Paper & pens (and other activities to keep little ones busy)
• Pet food and crate/leash for your animals (if bringing them along)
• Extra batteries
• Extra plastic sacks
• Bug Repellent
• Spare tire
• Emergency contact list
• Medication/allergy list
• Map
• Lip salve
• Portable kettle (plugs into cigarette lighter for hot water on the road - my favorite travel item)
• Instant coffee and tea bags
• Reflective triangle
• Picnic blanket w/waterproof backing
• Plastic sacks

Have a wonderful and safe journey!

This is part of Works for Me Wednesday.