Business Wisconsin.com, The Essential Road

The Essential Road - Trip Supply Kit
"Get Set Before You Go"

Everything all set and ready to roll? Before you get all the kids, dogs, and gerbils into the car, be sure you've packed that all-important road-trip supply kit.

What will you need?

Early start

Bring coffee or tea for the driver, juice boxes and cheerios for those back-seat riders who had to wake up too early and need soothing. Don't forget the favorite teddy bear or other travel pals for the kids.

Be sure anyone prone to motion sickness has taken some kind of medication before they get in the car.

Rest stops

Bring small garbage bags for both the front and back seats, and empty them when you stop. Some roadside rest areas are not the tidiest, so bring along wet wipes and paper towels. For runny noses and other contingencies, have a box of tissue in the car.

For four-legged friends, be sure to bring water and food, bowls, a leash, and the proper "scooper" tools for when they get out to stretch their legs. Also bring a travel kennel for each animal, and a chew toy for the pooch or a bit of catnip for the feline.

Refueling

You'll need to eat along the way.

Bring something to munch on the road, such as granola bars, crackers and cheese, apples or other hard fruit, and chips or salty snacks. Bring a paring knife or pocketknife to slice the apples or cheese, or do this before you leave.
One of the great parts of a road trip is stopping at roadside stands. Drop by one or two for a leg-stretching break, and buy something to eat. Bring paper plates, cups, and napkins, and plastic utensils to help you enjoy your impromptu picnic.
For the changing altitudes on mountain passes (and fresh breath), bring chewing gum.
Be sure to stay hydrated by bringing bottled water, juice, or soft drinks.

Navigation

Bring a set of maps that covers all the areas you'll be traveling through. For door-to-door driving instructions, go to a map site on the Internet (such as maps.expedia.com) and get customized maps for your trip.

Diversions for the road ahead

It's a long drive, so first and foremost, you'll need Road Music! If you have a preteen or teenager in your travel party, put that person in charge of collecting a few good CDs and tapes. (You can sneak in a CD or two of your own, just in case.) Consider bringing along some books on tape or vintage radio shows (check your local bookstore for these). The younger set will love a few art supplies, such as crayons, pastels, or pencils, and coloring books or drawing paper. The navigator, after helping the driver safely onto a long stretch of highway, might enjoy a book or selection of magazines.

Stop for the night

Whether you've made reservations at a hotel or motel along the way, or are staying with friends or relatives, be sure to bring the phone number and address of each evening's destination.

If you're staying with friends or relatives, bring a little thank-you gift to your hosts—perhaps something unique from your former hometown.

Emergency items

To find something in the car after the sun's gone down, be sure you have a flashlight in the glove compartment. Also carry your health insurance, automobile club, and credit cards. Finally, be sure your vehicle has a spare tire, tire iron, jack, and flares.

On behalf of Business Wisconsin.com, we wish you a fun and safe trip!

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