I'm going to be driving down to Orlando with myy girlfriend this weekend and I wanted to make sure that I preped my max for the long drive. So far I can only think of checking my fluids, tires and changing my oil. It's our first LONG drive so any tips will be appreciated. thanks.

 

Unless you have a road assistance program, I recommend always having a can of 'fix a flat' or something like that as well as a small air compressor/inflator. Also have a small box tucked in the trunk with a quart of oil, a jug of water, flashlight, duct tape and electrical tape (emergency patch of hoses), small tool kit, etc.

Even if tire repair places hate that gooey stuff, it beats the hell out of sitting on the side of a road, especially if the trunk is full and you don't want to get to the spare...which reminds me...CHECK THE PRESSURE OF THE SPARE TOO!!

This may seem a bit like overkill, but I am an avid believer in 'butt coverage' when out on a long haul.

 

I drove to Miami and then to Orlando in mid-February.
I would change the oil before going and then after coming back. (took my friends TAHOE---Gas Guzler. We made 300 miles to a 28 gallon tank.)

I would also take a few credit cards if I were you. Everything is so far appart in Orlando you'll constantly need gas.

Check all the fluids and brakes. TAKE A RADAR DETECTOR. you don't want to pay more for this trip than u have to.

 

I wouldnt worry since your girlfriend is going you will have to stop every hour.

 

If you take a radar detector, watch it in Virginia, as they were illegal the last times I was there.

Along with all maintenance (fluid levels checked, new oil, clean filters, tire pressure, lights, brakes, etc...), you may want to pack a cooler with snacks/drinks (legal type). Also plenty of CD's. And some Trojans in the glovebox (in case you need a container for water, place one in a sock, then fill it up. There are other uses for them, too).

Make sure you have "road gear", like a toolkit, jack, lug wrench, fix a flat, spare, flashlight w/batteries, flares, etc...

And a good waxing before leaving will make the car stay cleaner longer, and make it easier to clean once you return.

Don't forget an extra key!

Dave

 

paper money in small bills and keep it anywhere but your wallet.

 

i like to bring a 5 gallon gas container to carry along also for emergencies in areas without gas stations. You can use it for 100 octane on track days also

 

Does a woman's bladder work in a different fashion that ours? Sorry kinda O/T. Yeah, I'd double-check your fluid levels, air pressure and bring along some jumper cables, and maybe a small took kit.

 

long trips.. the joy.

lots of aspirin for the headaches you will get along the road, a good map, and a lot of items to keep you from being bored stiff. along with what everyone listed above.