Road Trip!

No matter how many trips I take, whether by car, air, boat, or train, my absolute favourite mode of transportation is car. Flying is great when I need to get somewhere too far to drive, or in a hurry, but nothing beats travelling by car when you have the time to do so. I love the inviting open road, the sunshine on my face, rolling down the window and rocking out to my favourite tunes. It all feels so freeing and wonderful!

The excitement of the trip can continue throughout your journey when you are prepared and organized. As much as we would like to believe that everything will go smoothly, the reality is that there will probably be a few hiccups along the way. By being organized, you can make sure these inconveniences are minimal and that they don't slow you down – literally. All of us at Organize My Chaos are chronic list makers. It's what makes us so good at our jobs. The best way you can ensure that you don't forget something, is to make a list and use it. It won't help you if you are on the road when you realize you forgot something as basic as a spare set of car keys when you lock your keys in the car. Was it on your list? Did you remember to review your list before you started out on your road trip? We've put together a road trip preparation list as well as a list of essential items you should have with you regardless how long you will be travelling. Think of the motto “Always Be Prepared”. Vehicle

• Check all fluid levels and ensure they are topped up. Put an extra jug of windshield washer in the trunk.

• Make sure the car battery is in good, working condition.

• Check the tires and tire pressure. Make sure spare tire is in good shape.

• Make sure car jack is in car and in proper working condition.

• Make sure car registration and insurance papers are up to date. Place them in the glove compartment for easy access.

• Check wipers – front and rear windows.

• Pack a roadside emergency kit including a set of jumper cables.

• Pack a flashlight and spare batteries.

• Have an extra pair of work gloves and a few rags.

• Update your GPS so it has current information on maps, roadblocks, etc.

• Fill up gas tank the night before you leave on your trip.

• Make sure you are a member of road side emergency service such as CAA or AAA. One tow can equal the cost of a year membership.

Essential items to pack for your road trip

• Wallet with all ID, credit and debit cards, membership cards, etc. (You'd be surprised how many times wallets get left behind!)

• Car-Sick-Bag

• First Aid Kit including: antiseptic wipes, band aids, gauze bandages, pain reliever for adults and children, thermometer, insect repellent, sun screen, tweezers, anti-itch medication, small pair of scissors, and antibiotic cream.

• Prescription medications.

• GPS with updated maps as well as a paper map in case of lost GPS signal.

• Lap top, cell phone, ipads, ipods, chargers – both wall plug and car chargers. Check your phone plan and add extra coverage if required.

• Portable charger.

• Camera, extra memory card, charger/batteries.

• Headphones.

• Flip top plastic cereal container lined with plastic bag to collect garbage.

• Extra change for tolls. Check with your GPS to locate tolls and fees.

• Refillable water bottle(s).

• Snacks/food.

• Straws.

• Set of cutlery in glove compartment - you have no idea how handy this will be!

• Extra pair of scissors in glove compartment.

• Notepad and pen within easy reach.

• Entertainment tickets and printed copies of any confirmation receipts i.e. Hotel, amusement park, etc.

• Small pillow and blanket.

• Sunglasses.

• Small sewing kit.

• Extra set of keys!!

Hopefully these suggestions help you prepare for your best-ever road trip. Most are small, simple items that take very little space but provide big rewards when needed. In our hurry to get on the road we often overlook the basics, or assume our travel partner has 'it' with them.

Once again, by being organized you can safe money, time, and your sanity! How wonderful to arrive at your destination with everything you need to enjoy your vacation. Having to stop and purchase items you've forgotten can really dig into your travel budget. I know we say it a lot, but organization = money saved!

Bonus tip

For hundreds of great ideas on travelling, check out our Pinterest Boards like Auto Organized, Packing Perfection, and Road Trip!

Get organized, get packing, and get on the road!

As always, we'd love to help organize your chaos. We offer complimentary 30-minute consultations in your home, and can create a plan to tackle any sized space! Contact us now to get started!

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