Everybody loves road trips, even the really short ones. You get to go somewhere new, usually with your friends, and form crazy memories. Whether it’s North America, Europe, or Australia, there are plenty of new things to see. The key to make the most of your road trip though is to be prepared. There are so many tips and tricks you can use to maximize your enjoyment, especially when things go wrong. And believe us…things will definitely go wrong. From running out of gas to wheels getting punctured there is no end to the amount of trouble you can encounter on your road trip. Today, however, we’re going to try to turn you into road tripping masters. You’ll learn the best way to pack, navigate, repair, and overall make the most of your adventure. Not only will you have more fun but you’ll also end up being the super cool friend that has an answer in every situation. Just make sure you don’t abuse your newfound powers! We’re just kidding. Go forth and explore the world. Bring your friends, make memories, and go off the beaten path. These are 25 tips and tricks to become a road trip ninja.
Featured Image: pixabay
You can use a shower organizer to travel with kids by hanging it over the back of the seat
Source: reddit, Image: amazon
If you’re parking somewhere unfamiliar, drop a pin on your GPS map so that you can find your way back
Source: reddit, Image: pixabay
Have an emergency kit in your trunk filled with toilet paper, snacks, water, and a backup phone
Source: reddit, Image: pixabay
If you see a truck slow down, you should too. Truckers usually communicate about speed traps so they probably know something you don’t know.
Source: reddit, Image: pixabay
Don’t keep changing lanes. Studies have shown that even in the best scenario it will only give you a minimal advantage with a significant downside (your chances of getting in an accident skyrocket)
Source: reddit, Image: wikipedia
Inflatable beds for the pool make for great beds on a road trip (lay them on the back seat)
Source: reddit, Image: wikipedia
This may take slightly more mechanical skills, but to avoid getting conned by a mechanic, ask them about a part of the car you know is not in need of repair. This will tell you how legit they are.
Source: reddit, Image: pixabay
To cool down a car without A/C, open the driver and passenger windows but leave the back windows shut. This will make the breeze a lot stronger
Source: reddit, Image: wikipedia
If you ever get motion sickness, you can tilt your head to the side to help it go away
Source: reddit, Image: Mike Weston via Flickr
Scratches on your car can sometimes be fixed with clear nail polish
Source: reddit, Image: wikipedia
An open box of dryer sheets in your car is longer lasting, cheaper, and more effective than cheap air fresheners
Source: reddit, Image: trenttsd via Flickr
In case you’re driving an unfamiliar car, the arrow next to the gas pump (on the speedometer) shows you which side the gas tank is on
Source: reddit, Image: wikipedia
To cool down a hot car quickly, roll down one window, walk to the other side of the car, and open/close the door several times
Source: reddit, Image: Bill Abbott via Flickr
When you fill your tank, hold the trigger halfway. You will get less air and more gas in the tank.
Source: reddit, Image: wikipedia
If you ever get stuck in traffic, once again watch the trucks. They communicate with each other so they know which lanes are closed.
Source: reddit, Image: wikipedia
Many gas stations offer free air for your tires. This is always a good thing to do because having inflated tires increases gas mileage.
Source: reddit, Image: wikipedia
Whenever you rent a car, take pictures and video before using it so you don’t get blamed for dents or scratches you didn’t commit
Source: reddit, Image: wikipedia
To prevent your windows from fogging up, cut a potato in half, rub down the inside of your windows, and then leave them to dry
Source: reddit, Image: wikipedia
If you can’t get a sticker off of your window, soak some newspaper in warm water and place it over the sticker for 10 minutes
Source: reddit, Image: bestandworstever.blogspot.com
An exit sign is positioned on the same side of the road as the exit
Source: reddit, Image: wikipedia
If you can see your own car in your mirror, the mirror is in a potentially dangerous position. To avoid having blind spots it’s better not to have any part of your own car visible
Source: reddit, Image: Ken Lund via Flickr
On hot days, turn your steering wheel around 180 degrees whenever you park so that the top isn’t hot when you come back
Source: reddit, Image: wikipedia
If you hold your car remote under your chin, it’s range increases slightly. This might sound unbelievable but its true. Your head acts as a sort of “antenna extension” thanks to your skull and various fluids.
Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/19/technology/personaltech/19basics.html?_r=2, Image: wikipedia
Drivers under 25 can have their surcharge waived if they are members of the USAA (registration is free)
Source: reddit, Image: pixabay
You can use the floormats in your car for traction if you get stuck in the snow or mud
Source: reddit, Image: torange.us
