5 Travel Tips to Prepare for Summer Road Trips
Are you dreaming of summer already? If you’re planning a road trip, Consumer Reports has tips to help you stay safe, save money, and deal with unexpected troubles on the road.
Before you head off on a family trip, Consumer Reports recommends a few things before you pack your bags and leave the house.
Inspect your tires for signs of damage such as cuts, cracks, and blisters on the sides caused by potholes. Also, check your tire pressure and make sure it’s correct, according to the number printed on your driver’s door jamb. Properly inflated tires are safer, last longer, and help your vehicle get better fuel economy.
Reducing air resistance can help your car get more fuel efficiency. Remove any roof racks, bike racks, etc. if you’re not using them. You can also save fuel by staying within the speed limit. According to Consumer Reports tests, driving at 75 mph instead of 65 mph reduces fuel economy by about 6 miles per gallon.
Also, when it’s time to fill up your tank, many gas stations offer discounted prices if you pay with cash, and credit cards that offer cash back rewards on gas can actually be a better deal, especially if you spend more on gas than you normally would in a month.
And if you experience mechanical trouble or a flat tire, out-of-pocket costs for long-distance towing can run into the hundreds of dollars. It’s a good idea to check with roadside assistance plans from companies like AAA or Good Sam before you leave, or you might already have free coverage through your auto insurance or credit card.
Apps and websites like GasBuddy and Waze can help you get real-time prices at nearby gas stations when you’re filling up in an unfamiliar area. While many gas stations offer lower prices if you pay with cash, a credit card with gas cashback rewards might actually be a better deal.
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