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A family road trip is always an adventure. And sometimes, for the right or wrong reasons, the journey is more memorable than the actual destination.
That’s why the trip should start long before you leave the driveway, with planning, preparation and proper packing.
So, take advantage of the space Mahindra XUV700 Offering plenty of cargo capacity in its five-seat configuration, here’s a rundown of how to pack for a long weekend trip with the family.
Write a checklist
Before you even grab the keys to unlock the car, gather the family and make a plan for the road trip.
Check where you want to go, how long it will take to get there, and search the route for gas stations, rest areas, interesting stops along the way, and possible delays and deviations due to road construction.
Also, check the weather forecast and average temperatures for that time of year as there is no point in packing unnecessary items.
Then write a checklist of essential items for each person and make sure the children are responsible for their own luggage when they are old enough.
Check the spare part
Days before you leave, check the condition and pressure of the spare tire.
There is nothing worse than getting a flat tire and not having a spare tire that is in good condition to continue your journey.
It’s a two-minute job that could save you hours on the road.
If the spare part needs to be replaced or re-inflated to the correct pressure, ensure this is resolved before you leave.
Also check the condition and pressure of all four standard tires. Inflating them to the pressure recommended on the tire label not only reduces the risk of a puncture while driving, but also improves fuel economy and vehicle handling.
Also, quickly check the oil level, coolant, and washer fluid.
Tools
At the same time, check whether all the tools required for the breakdown replacement, such as jacks, wheel wrenches and tow hooks, are present in the vehicle.
We also recommend carrying at least a flashlight, a portable air compressor, and jumper cables or a battery starter. And make sure each battery is fully charged.
If there is space, these can be stored with the spare tire or together in a small plastic container.
First aid
It’s worth having at least one simple first aid kit with you on every family trip.
You can purchase pre-made packages at the supermarket or camping specialty store that contain essential items such as bandages, painkillers, bandages, and bite and burn treatment products.
However, don’t forget to take certain medications, as well as sunscreen, insect repellent, and electrolyte tablets or powder in case of dehydration.
Baggage
When packing for a weekend getaway, you should know what you need for the conditions and environment of your destination, as well as any activities or events you may be attending.
If you’re going to the beach, be sure to pack your swimsuit and towels. If traveling into the bush, pack sturdy hiking boots and protective clothing.
If you’re staying in a motel, it’s unlikely you’ll need sheets and blankets. But that’s possible if it’s a cabin or Airbnb. If you are unsure, check with the owner before you leave.
Organize a smaller bag with basics like a spare shirt for everyone and a few towels that you can easily access when needed.
Be sure to only pack what you need, as this will make loading the car easier and easier.
Not only does this reduce fuel consumption, it also ensures the boot isn’t stuffed to the roof and restricts rear visibility, making it easier to access items or bags when you need them.
food and water
Everyone needs something to eat on a long drive, so pack enough snacks and drinks to last the whole family.
If you want to save money or avoid greasy truck stop food, prepare a picnic lunch in advance and plan a stop along the way. A small Esky with frozen ice stones keeps everything fresh and cool.
Also, pre-portion snacks like nuts and fruits in reusable plastic bags or containers. And take trash bags, wipes, and hand sanitizer with you.
Entertainment
Everyone needs more than just the scenery to keep them entertained on a long-distance road trip.
Organize a playlist with a selection of all your favorite songs or find a suitable audio book or podcast series that the whole family can enjoy.
Alternatively, ensure portable devices are fully charged before departure and bring charging cables or spare batteries to keep them charged.
This is how you pack
Now that all the suitcases are packed, it’s time to properly load everything into the trunk.
It’s like a game of Tetris, where everything has its right place depending on size, weight and how frequently it needs to be accessed.
Load the largest, heaviest bags first. This optimizes the vehicle’s weight distribution and center of gravity to ensure the safest driving experience.
From there, load lighter and smaller bags on top or in between to secure them all tightly together and ensure they don’t move when cornering or braking.
And secure all tools such as the compressor and jumper cables in an easily accessible location.
Once that’s done, pack esky, water and snacks in the back of the trunk and find a safe place for your smaller bag with spare clothes and towels so they’re easily accessible when you stop.
MORE: Explore Mahindra XUV700 showroom
