Before Hitting the Road…

Run a Full Car Maintenance Check

Before you hit the open road, make sure your car is in optimal driving condition. Getting your vehicle up to date on all necessary maintenance not only helps it drive better but also helps you avoid sudden breakdowns and costly repairs while on the road.

Here’s a list of things to check before you depart:

• Oil and fluid levels (coolant, brake, transmission, windshield washer fluid)
• Tire pressure, tread levels, and alignment
• Brakes and brake pads
• Battery health
• Headlights, brake lights, and turn signals
• Air conditioning

Scheduling a quick trip to your preferred mechanic for an inspection will cost you far less than unexpected repairs or tows along your journey.

Most importantly, proper maintenance protects the safety of all passengers. After all, your family and friends are precious cargo!

Review Your Vehicle’s Coverage

Your car is now road-ready, but what about your insurance? Double-check your policy before you drive off, especially if you’re traveling a long distance or out of state.

Confirm the following details about your vehicle coverage:

• Does your coverage change for out-of-state travel? Some insurance providers may limit or modify policy benefits in response to other state laws
• Does your plan include roadside assistance or towing?
• Can you add temporary coverage for the duration of your trip?

Consider enrolling in services like AAA, adding roadside protection to your policy, or temporarily increasing your coverage during your travels. It’s a minimal cost for maximum peace of mind!

Match Your Route to Your Style & Budget

If you’re traveling to a specific destination, map out your route ahead of time. Do you want to take the scenic route? The fastest? The most fuel-efficient? Are you looking to avoid interstates or toll roads? Or hit all the coolest side stops and attractions?

If you’d rather wing it and want to enjoy the open road, it can still be helpful to ask yourself these questions and consider which priorities are most important to you and your passengers. Even if you love spontaneity, having at least a loose plan will help you avoid unnecessary detours and wasting fuel.

Budget for Fun with Help from Your Credit Union:

Road trips come with extra expenses no matter how thoroughly you plan. From fuel costs and preparation expenses to attraction tickets and lodging, the costs add up. But you don’t have to empty your savings or rack up high-interest credit card debt to make memories with your friends or family.

Keep your budget and spending in check with help from the credit union.

• Credit Cards: While credit cards are the most convenient form of payment, not all cards are created equal. Most traditional cards from big banks and sponsored by retailers come equipped with extremely high interest rates. Pick up a lower-rate card from the credit union and keep more of your hard-earned money.

On the Road…

Lower Your Fuel Costs

Gas prices can vary widely from state to state and even from city to city. Research gas prices along your route before you drive off. Doing a bit of homework ahead of time lets you choose the most cost-effective refueling stops and can help you save some serious cash.

Follow these tips to help you save:

• Avoid filling up in major tourist areas, where gas prices and other costs are often inflated.
• Use apps like GasBuddy or AAA’s Fuel Finder to locate the best prices along your route.
• Choose refuel points with fun activities nearby to make the most of your break times. Discover affordable or free attractions, parks, and walkable downtown areas to explore.

Avoid Overpriced Pit Stops: Pack Car Snacks

Gas station snacks and fast food can drain your travel budget faster than you believe. Pack your car with snacks before you pull out of the driveway to minimize costs and frequent stops along the way.

Stock up on these road-friendly snacks to help you save and stay full:

• Sandwich supplies (lunch meats, cheeses, & condiments)
• Fruits & Veggies
• Yogurt
• Juice boxes or pouches
• Flavored waters
• Ice Packs

Depending on who you have riding along, passengers can make sandwiches and pass snacks to the driver to save time and avoid stopping. Or pull over at a rest stop or park for a fun and memorable picnic break.

Keep Your Spending in Check

Road trips are filled with spontaneity. From roadside attractions to exploring new towns, there’s always something fun to do. Don’t let these impromptu stops drain your budget. Keep your finances in check with digital banking tools from the credit union.

With our mobile app, you can easily:

• Track transactions
• Locate ATMs
• Set up e-Alerts & Notifications
• Pay bills and more

If you haven’t already downloaded our Free Mobile App, put it on your to-do list before you hit the road!

¡Estamos aquí para ayudar!

As you get ready for your summer road trip, remember that a little extra prep work goes a long way. By mapping out your journey and creating a travel budget, you can ensure that your summer road trip is safe, fun, and affordable. Drive safely and have fun!

If you want to learn more about how the credit union can help you afford the summer vacation you’ve been dreaming of, we’re ready to help. Please stop by any of our convenient branch locations or call 717-263-4444 to speak with a team member today.