Summer is in full swing! With last summer spent at home, many are ready to get out for summer travel or a road trip. But, the last thing you want is to find yourself stranded for an extended period of time, when a quick repair to your car could have had you right back on the road. Other situations, like a minor injury, can cramp your style—so it’s always good to be prepared! And you can do this with an emergency travel kit that you keep in your car.
What to include in your emergency travel kit
Gathering an assortment of safety items is a great idea to keep you and your family safe once you hit the road. Include the following in your emergency travel kit:
- Jumper cables
- Flares and a flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Motor oil (one quart)
- Coolant (one gallon)
- Tire jack, tire pressure gauge and tire inflator/sealant
- Spray bottle with washer fluid
- Paper towels
- Blanket
- Tool kit with a screwdriver, pliers, adjustable wrench and pocket knife
- First aid kit, including bandages, gauze, rubbing alcohol, antibiotic ointment, headache medicine, and salve for bee stings
- Bottled water
- Granola or energy bars
- Essential medications
- Cell phone charger
- Pen and paper
Keep all these items together in a box or backpack in your trunk. Be sure you know how to use all items before you leave for your trip!
Stay pandemic-safe
Since we’re still emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic, this is also a consideration for safety when you determine your travel plans. Take the following steps to stay healthy:
- Plan a shorter trip rather than a longer getaway. This way, you’ll limit your exposure to locations and crowds.
- Check your destination for masking requirements. Depending on where you’re going, the rules may differ. Check ahead of time, so you’re packed and prepared.
- Visit popular places at off-times to avoid crowds. This includes beaches, museums, shopping centers, nature parks and amusement parks. Evenings and weekdays are less likely to be crowded than Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
- Choose flights with few or no stops. You’ll arrive faster and spend less time in the confined space of an airplane.
- Continue to follow safety recommendations. Maintain social distancing, wear a mask if it’s required (or if you feel more comfortable) and remember to wash your hands regularly.
Being prepared gives you peace of mind
Taking care of your travel kit and planning your trip ahead of time will help you avoid delays, illness and other concerns for a safe and happy family road trip!
Get help managing risk
When it comes to being prepared, Odell Studner is on your side. We’ll work with your company for risk management, helping your company stay safe and profitable. To learn more, contact us today!