Summer is here! Vacations are planned, time-off requested, and packing ensues. But something is missing? And it’s not your toothbrush.

Taking the time to ensure maintenance is completed before hitting the open road can save you time and money!

Verify your vehicle is registered.

Ensuring your vehicles are registered can save you from a ticket and fine. If your vehicle is due for registration during your month of travel, register as soon as possible. You will need to receive updated documentation that your vehicle is registered before traveling.

Additionally, if you own ATV/UTV’s, a boat, and/or snowmobiles, non-residential states may require additional permits for use. Refer to the Parks and Registration guidelines for the state you are visiting.

Keep copies of your registration, insurance, and vacation details.

Organize your documents for easy access in case of an emergency. You should have already verified your registration. Registration and insurance documents for your trailer can be kept with your primary vehicle’s information. Registration, permits, and insurance should be kept with your ATV/UTV, boat, or snowmobile when in use.  Now is a good time to review your insurance policy. Additional accessories or coverage on your vehicles may not be on your current policy. Review your policy sooner rather than later to budget for changes to your monthly payment.

Keeping a copy of your vacation details will relieve stress in the event you lose service. It may be important to also look up additional information about where you are visiting. Where is the closest hospital or urgent care? Where is the closest auto shop and towing company? And where can you buy additional items that you may need? Thinking ahead can alleviate unnecessary stress and keep your vacation moving.

When was your last oil change and tire rotation?

Continuous maintenance can extend the life of your vehicle. Newer vehicles may notify you when an oil change is coming due. Older vehicles may require you to keep track of your miles. Depending on the type of oil that is used will coincide with the number of miles between oil changes.

Completing a tire rotation with your oil change will help distribute the wear of your tires for an extended life. Rotating your tires will allow you to be notified when it is getting closer to needing new tires as well.

Inspect your vehicle for any problems.

Inspecting your vehicle for leaks, burnt out lights, and additional possible issues will save you time and money before your vacation. Make yourself a checklist to verify your vehicle is in working order. Keep your vacation budget for yourself, not your vehicle!

Pack a tool bag and additional supplies.

Keeping basic tools in your vehicle can give you the ability to fix simple problems while on the road. For more extensive issues, the list you created in one of the previous steps will allow you to contact a local auto shop and towing company, if needed. Additional supplies may include jumper cables and a spare tire. Most vehicles should have a spare tire along with tools to switch out your tire. If you do not have a spare tire or the applicable tools, purchase online or visit a local tire shop.

Completing these steps can ultimately help your road trip run more smoothly.

Prioritizing maintenance and allowing budgeting can alleviate stress and the need for emergency funds. Additional steps may be needed depending on your vacation plans. An additional checklist may need to be created for your trailer, RV, or additional off-road vehicles.

The most important part of any vacation is to have fun and be safe – talk to a Goldenwest Loan Officer today for a reliable vehicle. Call us at 1-800-283-4550. Have a great summer!