Wednesday, December 16, 2020

How to of the Day

How to of the Day


How to Take Your Guitar on a Plane

Posted: 16 Dec 2020 04:00 PM PST

If you're worried about whether or not you can take your guitar on a plane or whether it would survive travelling as checked luggage, don't worry! It's actually your legal right to carry a guitar in the cabin of a plane with no extra fees, provided that you follow some guidelines regarding size and safety. In order to avoid any at-gate arguments, you can print out and carry Sec. 403 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, which describes how you are allowed to travel with a guitar on a plane. Note that there will always be exceptions, such as when you're flying on a small plane that just simply doesn't have room onboard for your guitar.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Storing Your Guitar In-Flight

  1. Book a seat at the back of the plane in order to board first. People at the back of the plane usually get to board first, so you're less likely to have problems finding space in the overhead bins. Choose a seat as far back in the plane as is available when you're purchasing your ticket to make the process of storing your guitar onboard easier.[1]
    Take Your Guitar on a Plane Step 1.jpg
    • If you're purchasing an extra seat for your guitar instead of storing it in an overhead luggage compartment, it doesn't matter whether the seats are towards the back or not.
    • If you're flying on an airline that assigns priority groups and lets you choose your seat when you board, try to check in as soon as possible to increase your odds of boarding first. In this case, it doesn't matter where your seat is, just choose one that has storage space available.
  2. Bring your guitar as standard carry-on luggage if it fits in an overhead bin. Sec. 403 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 permits passengers to carry a guitar or another instrument in a plane's cabin instead of a carry-on bag, as long as it will fit in normal luggage storage bins. Ensure your guitar is not longer or wider than the airline's overhead bins before you travel with it if you want to carry it on at no extra cost.[2]
    Take Your Guitar on a Plane Step 2.jpg
    • You can call an airline's customer service line to verify the exact overhead bin size for your flight.
    • Note that there must be space in the overhead bins at the time you board the plane or the airline can require that you check it at the gate. Flight attendants won't remove other luggage to make space for your guitar.
    • Try to carry your guitar as discreetly by holding it down at your side on the side furthest away from the agents when you're boarding your flight to avoid getting hassled by the agents at the gate. If they do say something, politely explain that you're bringing it instead of a piece of carry-on luggage, as permitted by law.
    • Keep in mind that if you get your guitar onboard, but there isn't any room for it, you might still have to give it to a flight attendant to send it below.
  3. Ask a flight attendant if you can store your guitar in a coat closet. There are often coat closets at the front and back of a plane that flight attendants store things in. Politely explain to a flight attendant that you're worried about your guitar getting damaged during the flight and ask if there is any extra room in a closet to store it upright.[3]
    Take Your Guitar on a Plane Step 3.jpg
    • You can also try this option if there's no overhead room when you're boarding your flight and the gate attendants are telling you that you can't take your guitar on.
    • Keep in mind that flight attendants are not required to store your guitar in a closet, so if they do so, they're doing you a kind favor.
    • Don't fight with the flight attendants if they won't put it in a closet for you. You won't achieve anything this way.
  4. Place your guitar carefully into an overhead bin if you can't put it in a closet. Head to your seat and put your guitar horizontally into the closest available overhead bin. Place it on top of other passengers' overhead luggage if the bins are already filling up and keep an eye out to make sure nobody puts anything on top of it.[4]
    Take Your Guitar on a Plane Step 4.jpg
    • If you're having trouble fitting your guitar into partially-filled luggage bins, politely ask nearby passengers if you can accommodate their luggage differently in order to fit your guitar in.
  5. Buy a ticket for your guitar if you can't take it as carry-on luggage. Purchase an additional ticket for an adjacent seat and take your guitar on the plane as if it's a person in the seat next to you. This is the only way you're allowed to take a large guitar on a plane with you that is too big to fit in an overhead bin.[5]
    Take Your Guitar on a Plane Step 5.jpg
    • If you aren't sure whether your guitar will fit in an overhead bin, this is the safest way to avoid problems when you're boarding the flight.
    • Make sure that you are able to choose 2 seats next to each other if you're purchasing tickets online or to request 2 adjacent seats if you're buying your tickets in person.
    • Naturally, this isn't always going to be realistic, especially if your flight is expensive. Other options you can consider are getting a smaller, cheaper guitar just for travel or shipping your guitar to your destination.

[Edit]Packing Your Guitar

  1. Use a soft case to make your guitar fit into cabin storage more easily. Place your guitar in a soft gig-style case to minimize its footprint for travel. These types of cases don't usually add a lot of bulk, so your guitar will still be able to fit into an overhead bin.[6]
    Take Your Guitar on a Plane Step 6.jpg
    • These types of cases will also make your guitar look less bulky when you carry it on. You're less likely to get hassled by a gate attendant or flight attendant while you're bringing it onboard that way.
    • If you want a little extra protection, you can get a fortified gig case. These are still soft, but have a little more form and structure to help pad your guitar during its journey. Keep in mind they are also a little bulkier than totally soft cases, but this will at least provide more protection than a standard soft case if you end up having to check your guitar.
    • Your guitar legally must be covered in order for you to take it on a plane as carry-on luggage. This is required in order to prevent injury to other passengers. This applies regardless of whether you purchase an extra seat for it or plan on storing it in the luggage compartment.
  2. Put your guitar in a hard travel case if you have to put it in the cargo hold. Choose the hardest, sturdiest case possible for your guitar if it's too big to put in an overhead bin and you don't want to pay for an extra seat. This will provide the most protection while it's being tossed around by baggage handlers and stored in the hold with other luggage.[7]
    Take Your Guitar on a Plane Step 7.jpg
    • For example, if you called your airline and found out that your guitar is too big for your flight's overhead bins or if you're flying on a small commuter plane, put it in a hard case.
    • If you plan to fly with your guitar a lot, invest in a heavy-duty flight case. These cases are expensive, but they are made of very hard, reinforced materials and have a lot of foam padding for maximum protection.
  3. Pack your guitar with paper to fill extra space and stop it from moving. Loosen the strings slightly and put crumpled up newspaper or packing paper in between the strings and the fretboard. Wrap newspaper or packing paper around the headstock, neck, and heel to protect them. Fill in any empty spaces in the case with paper as well.[8]
    Take Your Guitar on a Plane Step 8.jpg
    • You could also use soft items of clothing like T-shirts instead of paper. Doing so can even save you a little room in your other luggage.
    • Bubble wrap would also work well for this.
  4. Avoid putting any prohibited objects inside your guitar case with the guitar. Remove anything from the case that is not allowed inside a plane's cabin. Don't put anything in the case that you wouldn't put in a normal piece of carry-on luggage to avoid problems with airport security.[9]
    Take Your Guitar on a Plane Step 9.jpg
    • For example, anything sharp, bottles of liquids over 3 oz (88.7 mL), and lighters are things that are prohibited from plane cabins.
  5. Ensure the total weight of your guitar is within the airline's limit. The standard cabin luggage weight limit is , so your guitar won't be overweight for a standard commercial flight. Weigh your guitar in its case to make sure that it falls under the airline's weight limit if your flight has a lower limit.[10]
    Take Your Guitar on a Plane Step 10.jpg
    • You can call your airline's customer service line ahead of time or look on their website to find the exact weight restrictions for your specific flight.
    • You are probably only likely to have problems with weight if you are flying on an extremely small plane, since no guitars weigh anywhere near .
    • Note that flights also have weight limits for checked luggage, but it is extremely unlikely a guitar will exceed such a limit.

[Edit]Tips

  • Depending on how expensive your guitar is and where you're flying to, buying an extra flight ticket for it might be cheaper than risking damaging it by sending it as checked luggage.[11]
  • Consider buying a cheaper guitar specifically for travel if you have an expensive guitar that you're really worried about damaging.[12]
  • Remember that every airline and even every flight attendant or gate attendant may not treat you and your guitar the same. Print out a copy of Sec. 403 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 and carry it with you to help resolve any disputes.[13]
  • If you're flying on a small plane or your guitar is too big to fit in a storage compartment, be prepared to send it as checked luggage and pack it properly in a hard travel case or flight case.[14]

[Edit]Warnings

  • Avoid checking your guitar unless you have absolutely no other option. Baggage handlers are notoriously rough with luggage and are unlikely to make an exception for your guitar. Also, the changes in temperature and pressure in the cargo hold can damage your guitar during the flight.[15]

[Edit]References

How to Organize Cross Stitch Thread

Posted: 16 Dec 2020 08:00 AM PST

If you're tired of untangling your thread before every cross stitch project, it's time to organize it. Before you even start sorting the thread, decide which thread you no longer need. Then, come up with an organization method that works for your space and makes sense for you. You might organize your thread by color or wind it onto bobbins to save space. Play around with storage solutions until you find your fit!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Sorting through Your Thread

  1. Throw out the thread you no longer use. Gather all of your cross stitch thread in 1 place and discard any strands that are too short to use in a project. You should also get rid of thread that's faded or seems weak when you pull the ends.[1]
    Organize Cross Stitch Thread Step 1.jpg
    • If you use weakened thread for your next cross stitch project, the seams are more likely to rip, which damages your work.
  2. Separate the thread you want to keep into project piles. Once you've removed the thread that you know you don't want to keep, separate the thread you're going to save into a current project pile and a future project pile. If you have more than 1 cross stitch project going, make a pile for each.[2]

    • Having all of the thread you need for a project in 1 easy to access space saves you time.
  3. Donate excess thread that you don't want to keep. If you have excess thread that's still in good condition, but you don't like the brand or you know you won't use them, ask local community centers or schools if they can use the thread. These groups can use them for their own classes and craft projects.[3]
    Organize Cross Stitch Thread Step 3.jpg
  4. Group the thread by color, project, or thread number. Before you choose a storage solution, get an idea of how much thread you have to store. Organize the thread by color, project, or the thread number listed on the thread paper.[4]

    • For example, you might group all of the green thread in a large pile, the purple thread in another pile, etc. If you're sorting by number, you might make a pile of threads between 300 and 400, 400 and 500, and so on.

[Edit]Winding Thread onto Bobbins

  1. Buy bobbins and a bobbin winder. Go to a craft supply or sewing store and buy plastic or cardboard bobbins. You'll need 1 bobbin for each skein of thread that you want to store. Then, buy a handheld bobbin winder tool to make winding easier.[5]
    Organize Cross Stitch Thread Step 5.jpg
    • If you can't find these supplies at your local craft store, check online.
    • If you don't feel like buying a winder, you can wrap the thread around the bobbin by hand. This works best if you only have a few skeins to wrap.
  2. Snap the winder onto a bobbin box and unwrap a skein of thread. Get out a plastic bobbin box that has individual compartments and snap the base of the bobbin winder onto the side of the open compartment. Then, peel the paper label off of the first skein of thread that you want to wind.[6]

    • You can write the color number directly on the tip of the bobbin or trim the paper label and tape it to the back of the bobbin.
  3. Place the thread around a wide jar and push the bobbin into the winder. Although you can keep the skein of thread loose as you wind it, it may tangle so put it around a sturdy jar or container to keep the threads in place. Take a bobbin and insert it into the bobbin winder.[7]

    • Since the bobbin is secure, there's no need to hold it in place while you're winding.
  4. Thread the end of the thread through the tip of the bobbin and wind it a few times. Pull the end of the thread onto the bobbin and push it through the diagonal slit at the end. This catches the thread so it doesn't come undone. Turn the bobbin winder handle a few times to get the thread started on the bobbin.[8]

    • Ensure that nothing's placed between the thread and the bobbin winder or the thread may catch.
  5. Wind the thread faster to transfer the entire skein to the bobbin. Use one hand to turn the handle while your other hand holds the thread that's being wound. Guide the thread across the bobbin so it winds evenly.[9]

    • It's alright if your bobbin is a little bumpy or uneven, but you may lose storage space if you can't neatly stack them.
  6. Remove the bobbin and store it in the plastic compartment. Tuck the loose end of thread into the other diagonal slit at the end of the bobbin. Then, place it into your storage compartment according to color or number. Wind as many skeins as you like.[10]
    Organize Cross Stitch Thread Step 10.jpg

[Edit]Trying Different Storage Methods

  1. Place thread into bags before putting them in totes for a quick storage solution. If you're short on time and just want a fast way to keep your thread separate, get out a box of sealable bags. Place as many skeins or bobbins of thread as you like into each bag and label the outside of the with the thread's color number. Then, put the bags into plastic totes or shoe boxes.[11]
    Organize Cross Stitch Thread Step 11.jpg
    • Organize the bags of thread by color, project, or thread number.
    • Keep in mind that if you're placing more than 1 skein of thread into a bag, the thread is more likely to tangle.
  2. Put the skeins into plastic storage cabinets to store lots of thread. Purchase cabinets with shallow drawers from craft supply shops for a lightweight, cheap storage system. Slide out each drawer and fill them with your thread. Then, make a label that tells what's inside each drawer and attach the labels to the front of the cabinet.[12]
    Organize Cross Stitch Thread Step 12.jpg
    • If you fill an entire cabinet, you can fill another one and stack the cabinets.
    • Avoid stuffing the drawers too full or you won't be able to find the thread you need and the skeins may tangle.
  3. Place thread into a flat storage container with dividers for easy traveling. If you need a portable storage solution for just 1 project, buy a clear container that's divided into small compartments. These are usually sold to store beads, but you can place 1 or 2 skeins or bobbins of thread into each compartment.[13]
    Organize Cross Stitch Thread Step 13.jpg
    • The divided compartments prevent the thread from sliding around and getting tangled.
  4. Tie skeins of thread from the bottom bar of a hanger to store thread in a closet. Untwist a skein to make a giant loop of thread and find the knot on the loop. Cut through all the threads so you have a long strand and it in half. Place the bottom bar of a hanger over the folded end of the thread. Then, gather the other end of the thread and bring it up through the folded to form a clove hitch knot.[14]
    Organize Cross Stitch Thread Step 14.jpg
    • You can use a plastic, wooden, or metal hanger to store your thread.
    • Hang 10 to 12 skeins of thread depending on the size of the hanger.
  5. Slip the thread skeins into clear binder sleeves if you're short on storage space. If you don't have room for cabinets or plastic containers, buy a binder and clear specialty binder sheets from a craft supply store. Each sheet contains about 5 horizontal compartments so you can slide in a skein or bobbin of thread into each section. Then, clip the binder sheet into the binder and store it on a shelf or under the bed.[15]
    Organize Cross Stitch Thread Step 15.jpg

[Edit]Tips

  • However you decide to store your thread, keep them out of direct sunlight, which could fade the colors.[16]

[Edit]References

How to Plan a Road Trip

Posted: 16 Dec 2020 12:00 AM PST

Who doesn't love a good road trip? Loading up your car, putting on some music, and hitting all the backroad stops along your route is a great way to have some fun. Road trips might seem like spontaneous getaways, but you're better off if you spend a bit of extra time planning the journey, route, budget, and packing list. You'll definitely thank yourself for this extra bit of planning when you're having a great time on your trip!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Route Planning

  1. Map out the route to your destination. You probably have your destination in mind, so next you have to figure out how to get there. It's best to plan the route beforehand rather than only relying on your navigation system to get you there. That way, you can hit any stops you want to see on the way, and you'll know the right directions if your GPS fails. Check your map or get directions online and plan out the route before leaving.[1]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 1 Version 4.jpg
  2. Plan a scenic route if you have time to reach your destination. For a classic road trip, take a route with plenty of stops and sights to see along the way. That way, the journey becomes a trip in itself![2]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 2 Version 4.jpg
    • You can still move pretty quickly and stop to sightsee on the way. Pick attractions close to interstates and highways so you don't have to go too far off the route.
  3. Take a quick route if you want to get to your destination faster. You might also be more interested in reaching your destination than seeing sights along the way. This is fine too. In this case, plan a route with plenty of interstates and highways so you move quickly and get to your destination as soon as possible. Then you can start enjoying your vacation![3]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 3 Version 4.jpg
    • This is a good option if you're traveling by car to avoid the expense of air travel. Your main goal is probably getting to your destination fast rather than spending a lot of time on the road.
  4. Make a list of sights you want to see on the way to your destination. You'll get the real road trip experience if you make some stops along the way and take in the sights. Check your route and see what's on the way. Make a list of everything you want to see during your journey. Even if you're in a hurry, you can probably spare a few hours for a stop. It's definitely worth it for the classic road trip experience.[4]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 4 Version 4.jpg
    • For example, if you're driving from Phoenix to Salt Lake City, it's definitely worth it to stop and see the Grand Canyon.
    • You can also plan some detours to hit sights that aren't directly in your path. Driving a few hours out of the way could be worth it if there's something you really want to see.
    • The website Roadside America has a ton of suggested sites to stop all over the US if you're on a road trip. If you need ideas, visit this site and plug in your route to see what comes up.[5]
  5. Mark the hotels or RV parks you'll stop to sleep at. If your trip will take more than 1 day, then you'll need a plan on where to sleep. Map out your stops along the route and pick the hotel or RV parks you'll be stopping in. This gives you a new destination to aim for each day.[6]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 5 Version 4.jpg
    • The distance between these stops depends on how much you want to drive each day. If you can drive for 10 hours straight without getting too tired, then that's fine. If you prefer to keep your driving stretches closer to 5 hours, then this works too.
    • It's dangerous to drive when you're too tired, and you're at risk for falling asleep at the wheel or getting into accidents.[7] Don't plan for excessive distances between your stops.
    • In general, driving for more than 10 hours in a day without stopping is dangerous. If at any point you feel too tired, pull over and take a quick nap.
  6. Allow extra time to stop and see unexpected attractions. Part of the fun of road trips is being spontaneous! Planning is good, but you never know what you'll come across on the road. If you pass a museum, historic site, park, or any other attraction, it's great to stop and have a look. This makes the road trip a lot more fun for everyone.[8]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 6 Version 4.jpg
    • Building in a bit of extra time is easy. If you need to get to your hotel by 5 PM and it's 5 hours away, leave 8 hours to get there. This way, you can hit any unexpected stops on the way.
    • Keep an eye on the time if you stop though. It's easy to lose yourself and end up behind schedule. This is important if you're trying to get to your destination quickly.

[Edit]Financial Planning

  1. Set a total budget for your trip. This isn't as fun, but like with any vacation, you need to set a budget for your road trip so you don't spend more than you wanted to. Have a look at your finances and determine what you can afford to spend for the whole trip. Then use your budget to plan your spending for the trip.[9]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 7 Version 4.jpg
    • The major expenses on a road trip include food, lodging, gas, and tolls. You should also allow some money for attractions and souvenirs.
    • The limit for your budget depends on you and what you can afford to spend. It's best to save ahead of time so you can pay for the vacation rather than relying on your credit card.[10]
    • Even if you don't have a high budget, you can have a great vacation by taking a road trip. Stay at cheaper motels, eat simple meals, and trim back spontaneous spending to stay under control.
    • If you're on a road trip with friends, keep a list of what everyone owes to keep track of all the money. Apps like SplitWise make this a lot easier.
  2. Identify gas stations and prices along your route. Even a small change in gas prices can impact the budget of your trip. Add up the total miles you'll be driving and look at the average prices along the route you're taking to calculate your estimated gas bill. Include this in your budget planning.[11]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 8 Version 4.jpg
    • AAA keeps a daily log of gas prices all over the US at https://gasprices.aaa.com//
    • You can also use an app like GasBuddy to find the cheapest gas in every location.[12]
  3. Book your lodging ahead of time to get a good rate. Whether you're staying in motels or RV parks, the price of lodging can really add up. Usually, prices are higher if you book late.[13] There also might not be enough room for you if you book at the last minute, and you don't want to be left without a place to sleep! It's best to make all your lodging arrangements well ahead of your trip to get the best rates.[14]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 9 Version 3.jpg
    • As a general rule, booking 3-4 weeks in advance is the best way to get the cheapest price. This isn't set in stone, though, so don't hesitate to book if prices seem to be going up.[15]
    • It's especially important to book your lodging early if you're traveling during a peak season, like the summer.
  4. Leave room in the budget for incidentals or mishaps. Even with an airtight budget, you never know what will happen. Your car could break down or you might come across an attraction on the way that you need entrance money for. Plan for some wiggle room in your budget to plan for unexpected expenses like these.[16]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 10 Version 3.jpg
    • Your trip will also be a lot more fun if you have a bit of extra money and don't have to worry about going over budget.
    • As a bonus, if you don't spend more than you budgeted for, it'll feel like extra money!

[Edit]Effective Packing

  1. Pack only what you need to save room. It can be tempting to overpack for a road trip, but space is limited! Do your best to pack light and only bring what you need. A few pairs of clothes, towels, toiletries, snacks, and any other essentials are all you need. That way, you'll have plenty of leg room to stay comfortable in the car.[17]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 11 Version 3.jpg
    • You can save room if you stay at hotels with laundry facilities. That way, you won't have to pack as many clothes.
    • If you're going on a trip with others, make sure you tell them the space limits and encourage them to only pack what they absolutely need.
    • A roof rack is a great way to pack plenty of stuff without taking up too much room in the car.
  2. Bring a cooler with plenty of snacks. You're bound to get hungry in the car, and you might not be near any restaurants or rest stops. Pack a bag or cooler with all of your favorite snacks and bring it along. This way, you can easily dip into your snacks for a quick bite. Remember to bring plates and napkins too so you don't make a mess![18]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 12 Version 3.jpg
    • As long as the cooler stays cold, you can bring sandwiches, cold cuts, fruit, and salads.
    • If you can't fit a cooler in the car, make sure you only bring non-perishable foods like nuts, dried fruit, granola bars, or bags of chips.
    • Bringing food in the car is also a good way to keep the budget under control. Stopping at restaurants adds up, so packing some extra snacks can cut down on that expense.
  3. Include plenty of entertainment like music or movies. Road trips are a ton of fun, but long hours on the road will get boring eventually. Having some entertainment helps pass the time during dull stretches. This is especially important if you have kids in the car. Pack some movies for children or passengers in the backseat to watch, and plenty of music to keep everyone else entertained.[19]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 13 Version 3.jpg
    • It can be fun to let everyone have a chance being the car DJ. That way everyone gets a turn to listen to what they want to.
    • Try putting together a playlist that gets you pumped so you stay alert while you're driving.
    • Remember chargers for all your electronics too! You don't want to end up stranded with no power.
  4. Pack any medications or health items you need. Remember to bring any prescriptions you have to take, and any other medications or supplies you use regularly. Pack all of this in a separate bag so you can find it easily.[20]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 14 Version 3.jpg
    • It's also good to always have a first-aid kit in the car to handle any minor injuries.
    • Bring along some pain relievers and antacids too. You never know when you'll need them on vacation.
  5. Bring a paper map in case you don't have service or power. It's not a good idea to depend entirely on your GPS. You might lose service, or the device could malfunction. It's always worth it to have a paper map in the car so you can find your way no matter what. It's old fashioned, but it works.[21]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 15 Version 3.jpg
    • Road atlases are great resources that have all the major roads for entire countries in them. Get one of these to keep in your car.
    • Practice reading the map if you're not used to it. If you've only used a GPS system, a paper map might look confusing at first.
  6. Make sure you have an emergency kit in your car. You never know what'll happen on the road, so be prepared. A basic emergency car kit should have a first-aid kit, jumper cables, water, flares, blankets, flashlight, non-perishable food items, and an extra cell phone. You may also need some extra gear if you're heading to a harsher climate.[22]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 16 Version 2.jpg
    • If you're traveling in the winter or heading towards a cold climate, then definitely pack an ice scraper, snow brush, sand, and a small shovel in case you get stuck in the snow.
    • It's good to always have an emergency kit in your car, not just when you're taking a road trip.
  7. Remember masks if you're going somewhere affected by COVID-19. The COVID-19 pandemic is still affecting many places. Protect yourself and your travel partners by packing masks and wearing them whenever you're around other people. If you can, stick with outdoor activities to reduce your risk of catching the virus.[23]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 17 Version 2.jpg
    • Respect social distancing rules as well, and leave at least between yourself and others.
    • It's also a good idea to bring plenty of hand sanitizer and keep it in your car.

[Edit]Car Safety Checklist

  1. Make sure your tire pressure is correct. Your tires are crucial for safety on a road trip. Use a high-quality pressure gauge and measure the pressure on all your tires and the spare. If any tires are low, fill them up before the trip.[24]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 18.jpg
    • The recommended tire pressure is in your car owner's manual. In most cars, the recommendation is 32-35 psi, but follow the instructions for your car.
    • It's best to take a pressure reading when the tires are cold so you get an accurate reading.
  2. Check your tire tread depth. If your tire treads are shallow, it means your tires are wearing out. For an easy test, press a quarter into the tire treads in a few different places. If you can see George Washington's head sticking up in any spots, then the tire is starting to wear out. Take the car to a mechanic to see if you need new tires before the trip.[25]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 19.jpg
    • Also look for any other signs of damage while you're checking the tread. Any cracks, scrapes, or worn-down parts could be dangerous.
    • It's very dangerous to drive with worn-out tires, so don't delay in getting them fixed.
  3. Replace your wiper blades if yours are worn-out. You never know when you'll run into rain or snow on the road, so you'll need fresh wipers. Do a quick test by hitting the washer and wiper button in your car. Make sure the blades completely clean the windshield with each pass. If there are any wet spots leftover, or if the wipers leave smudges, then replace the wipers before you leave.[26]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 20.jpg
    • If the blades leave any wet spots, they might just be dirty. Try cleaning the wipers with alcohol and doing the test again. If there are still wet spots, then you definitely need new wipers.
  4. Check your battery health. A dead battery can really ruin a road trip. Pop your hood and make sure there is no corrosion on the battery terminals. Also make sure the nuts connecting the wires to the terminals are tight. If all looks good, then you shouldn't end up with a dead battery on your trip.[27]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 21.jpg
    • If the battery is over 3 years old, it's a good idea to let a mechanic check it to make sure it's healthy. They can replace it if they have to so you don't end up stranded.
  5. Bring your car to a mechanic for an inspection. For your car to run properly, you need to make sure it has enough oil and fluids, good brakes, a healthy battery and transmission, and all the other necessary parts. If you don't know how to check all this, it's best to bring your car to a mechanic before leaving. They can give your car a quick inspection and fix any issues to make sure the car is safe.[28]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 22.jpg
    • Bring your car in at least a few days before you're planning on leaving. That way, there's enough time if you need any repairs.
    • Even if you know how to check all of this yourself, it's a good idea to let a mechanic take a look too. They might find something you missed.
  6. Rent a car if yours isn't fit for the trip. If your car is old, beat-up, or just not ready for a long trip, you always have the option to rent a car instead. This way, you can avoid the wear-and-tear on your own car and have a vehicle that's more up to the task.[29]
    Plan a Road Trip Step 23.jpg
    • Renting is also a good option if you need more space. If you own a sedan but want to go on a trip with 6 people, then renting a van or RV is a good choice.
    • Always check the mileage agreements when you rent a car so you know how much you'll be charged. This is important for long trips.


[Edit]Related wikiHows


[Edit]Tips

  • If you're not sure whether or not your car can handle the trip, bring it to a mechanic to have a look at it.
  • If you're traveling with friends, decide how you'll split the costs before leaving. This should solve any disagreements later on.

[Edit]Warnings

  • Don't rely on your navigation system without looking up the route beforehand. If your GPS fails, you'll be stranded if you don't have some idea of where you're going.
  • Don't push yourself too hard while you're driving. Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Give yourself a break every few hours so you're fresh and alert.[30]

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

  1. https://koa.com/blog/9-steps-to-planning-your-great-american-road-trip/
  2. https://koa.com/blog/9-steps-to-planning-your-great-american-road-trip/
  3. https://koa.com/blog/9-steps-to-planning-your-great-american-road-trip/
  4. https://www.heremagazine.com/articles/road-trip-how-to
  5. https://traveltips.usatoday.com/plan-road-trip-vacation-12786.html
  6. https://koa.com/blog/9-steps-to-planning-your-great-american-road-trip/
  7. https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/drowsy_driving.html
  8. https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/how-to-plan-the-perfect-road-trip/2017/06/07/d53b3430-457f-11e7-a196-a1bb629f64cb_story.html
  9. https://koa.com/blog/9-steps-to-planning-your-great-american-road-trip/
  10. https://www.cnn.com/2019/11/16/success/how-much-to-spend-on-travel/index.html
  11. https://newsroom.aaa.com/2012/12/more-than-one-in-four-americans-to-take-a-road-trip-this-holiday-season-aaa/
  12. https://www.tripsavvy.com/planning-a-road-trip-complete-guide-4845956
  13. https://newsroom.aaa.com/2012/12/more-than-one-in-four-americans-to-take-a-road-trip-this-holiday-season-aaa/
  14. https://www.heremagazine.com/articles/road-trip-how-to
  15. https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/hotels/2014/08/14/hotel-booking-tips/14006883/
  16. https://koa.com/blog/9-steps-to-planning-your-great-american-road-trip/
  17. https://traveltips.usatoday.com/plan-road-trip-vacation-12786.html
  18. https://traveltips.usatoday.com/plan-road-trip-vacation-12786.html
  19. https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/how-to-plan-the-perfect-road-trip/2017/06/07/d53b3430-457f-11e7-a196-a1bb629f64cb_story.html
  20. https://www.heremagazine.com/articles/road-trip-how-to
  21. https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/how-to-plan-the-perfect-road-trip/2017/06/07/d53b3430-457f-11e7-a196-a1bb629f64cb_story.html
  22. https://newsroom.aaa.com/2010/11/2010-thanksgiving-road-trips/
  23. https://www.businessinsider.com/safe-vacations-during-covid
  24. https://newsroom.aaa.com/2010/11/2010-thanksgiving-road-trips/
  25. https://newsroom.aaa.com/2010/11/2010-thanksgiving-road-trips/
  26. https://newsroom.aaa.com/2010/11/2010-thanksgiving-road-trips/
  27. https://newsroom.aaa.com/2010/11/2010-thanksgiving-road-trips/
  28. https://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/a26200/car-road-trip/
  29. https://www.tripsavvy.com/planning-a-road-trip-complete-guide-4845956
  30. https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/drowsy_driving.html

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