Tips For Car and Truck Owners

what are tips for long distance driving?

hi, i'm planning washington dc --> san francisco --> washington dc + grand canyons drive (@7000 miles) in summer by my 2006 honda civic. it already has 74,000 miles on it... car is in good condition. i've few questions.

Lots of good suggestions. I've done my fair share of long drives myself. I'll mention things from my experience:

AAA plus membership- I've only broken down once in over 50,000 miles of travel in my Chevy Blazer (bought truck at 135k, now has 185k, I stay up on maintenance) but had AAA when I got stranded that one time. I believe the Plus version costs 120 bucks give or take and covers towing up to 100 miles. This is cheaper than a tow bill in almost all cases. Also, most hotels/motels give discounts for these AAA cardholders, especially the hotel-infested cities along the interstate.

Extra money- I always have had $800 at least in extra cash whenever I go on long drives. When I was stranded, it was my fuel pump that gave out in 105 degree summer weather. This kind of weather puts a strain on ANY fuel pump. I would make sure yours has been changed recently. If its been a couple years I would swap it out for a new one before you leave. Fuel pumps are one of those parts that fail at the worst time and can leave you stranded more often than not. Anyway, when mine went out, I spent 6 hours in a hot waiting room, got a $750 bill, and was on my way again. YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT CAN HAPPEN! Good to have money in reserve just in case.

Winterfresh gum- This helps keep your eyes open, but ALWAYS stop to rest if you feel fatigued.

Drinks- Avoid drinks with caffeine. They will make you tired when it wears off. Drink a lot of water instead. Forces you to take more bathroom breaks and keeps you refreshed.

This really depends on the person, but I don't eat TOO MUCH on road trips. I usually get tired when I eat a lot. I like to keep peanuts, trail mix, and granola bars with me during the drive. Sometimes, I will keep a cooler with me with some form of ice pack to keep fresh fruit and yogurt with me in my truck. I haven't done this on all my trips though.

BRING PLENTY OF MUSIC!!!!!!!!!! The radio certainly won't fill that void.

Take the interstate when possible. All those rest stops and the helpful blue information signs are on the interstate.

Check the gas prices on your route before you leave. It tends to vary greatly when traveling from state to state.

Just take it easy and you will be fine. Don't try to race everyone you see. Cop presence seems to be a little heavier in the Southern states compared to others. If you have a radar detector, try not to be ahead of the pack. You'll get much earlier warnings if the people ahead ar gunned first (assuming Instant On is used). Most people will be hauling balls at 85+ MPH anyway. Best way to maximixe fuel economy is at 55-60 MPH in cruise control however. Stay in the right lane unless you intend to pass. Only pass semi trucks on THEIR left side.

Good luck and safe travels!!!

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