Travelling Australia’s roads is a dream for many around the world, and we’re lucky enough to be able to explore the country whenever we get some spare time! With Easter on its way, and the chance to jump on a plane out of the question (for now), more families are choosing to pack up and take an Easter road trip.
If road tripping is new to you, you might have a few questions about how to get prepared. Phil Gilbert Kia has you covered with our handy guide. If you’re ready for an upgrade to your road trip, check out our range of new Kia cars and contact us to take one for a test drive.
Car maintenance checks
Don’t set off without making sure your vehicle is safe and reliable. The best route to take here is a professional car service, but there are some DIY checks you can carry out, too.
- Check and replace fluids if necessary - this includes the oil, brake fluid, radiator coolant, power steering fluid and windscreen washer fluid
- Check the tyres - consider replacing them if they’re old and worn, make sure they meet minimum tread depth requirements, and that they’re properly inflated
- Ensure the brakes work - they should be in good working condition and not squeaking
- Change the air filter if necessary - do this yourself or take your car to a mechanic
- Change the windscreen wipers - if wipers are old, noisy or making streaks on the windscreen, buy some new ones to make sure your view isn’t compromised
Keeping the kids entertained
Taking a road trip with children in tow can make you feel like you won’t get to relax much on this holiday. But with some tips, you can keep the kids happy and entertained, for a smooth, enjoyable journey.
- Plan your itinerary carefully - set off early in the morning or late at night, when the kids can sleep
- Take iPads or tablets so they can watch films or play educational games
- Make a few stops so everyone can stretch their legs. Consider stopping at play areas or at the beach so everyone can have some fun en route
- Take healthy, tasty snacks with you
- Play car games and sing songs
The equipment you’ll need
Make a checklist of the equipment you need to pack before you get behind the wheel, so you don’t end up stranded and without the essentials.
This should include (but is not limited to):
- A phone plan with an operator that gets good coverage even in remote areas of Australia
- A GPS and paper map
- Camping equipment, such as a tent, sleeping bags, chairs, kitchen utensils, a stove, cleaning supplies, a torch, etc.
- Food, including non-perishables, and fresh drinking water
- Personal hygiene products, such as shower gel, sanitiser, toothpaste, toilet paper, baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, etc.
- A first aid kit that contains painkillers, antiseptic wipes, mosquito repellents, sun protection, gauzes, travel sickness medication, etc.
Contact Phil Gilbert Kia Dealership
There may be a lot of planning involved for an Aussie road trip, but the payoff is usually worth it! Make some great memories in your Kia; book a service or upgrade your vehicle at Phil Gilbert Kia in Sydney. You can reach our team on (02) 9735 8400.
