HGTV's Chip Wade Knows How to Plan the Perfect Road Trip

Planning a family-friendly road trip is no easy feat. That's why we sought the advice of an expert: HGTV's resident handyman, Chip Wade, who also happens to be a father of three. Chip has done his share of road trips . . . enough to know that although it's not as fun as packing up a beach bag, prepping the car is one of the most important items on any savvy traveler's to-do list. We asked Chip all about the car safety essentials most parents forget about and the real reason it's more fun to drive.

PS: What should every parent have stocked in the car on a road trip?

CW: Depending on the age of your children, the items can definitely differ. It's always important to have wet naps, tissues, water, and Band-Aids up front in the glove compartment. In the trunk, I recommend always keeping an "emergency roadside kit." Items I like to keep in my kit are jumper cables, first-aid items, a flashlight, and a multipurpose tool. It's also good to keep an extra bottle of engine oil, a tire gauge, and windshield washer fluid in your trunk.
 
PS: How do you keep kids entertained on long car rides?

CW: It's important to keep the children entertained while also being able to focus on the road. I like to play my children's favorite music or let them use a tablet to play games on. Another idea is to play a game the whole family can get involved in. It gets everyone talking while also helping to pass the time. My family and I like to play "Name That Tune," and with the little ones, we love "I Spy."
 
PS: What are your tips for navigating long drives to new destinations, when kids offer plenty of distractions?

CW: Before setting out on your road trip, have a master plan. It's important to have your trip mapped out in multiple ways beforehand so that you're familiar with the routes you should be taking — even if you have GPS. If something comes up, like an unexpected stop or a detour, you have a backup option. If your children are older and responsible enough, there may be a possible copilot opportunity!

PS: Why drive when you can fly?

CW: I find that road trips are more of a bonding experience for the family than flying. Also, your children are always in your car, so they are already comfortable in your vehicle of choice. It is sometimes easier to get children to settle down while traveling if in the family car, rather than on a plane with strangers. Plus, planning a classic road trip can also be less expensive depending on the destination.
 
PS: What are the top mistakes families make before embarking on a road trip?

CW: Checking the air pressure in your spare tire! According to a recent report, less than a third check the pressure in their spare tire. Imagine getting a flat only to find out your spare tire is also flat!
 
Families need to prepare for the unexpected before hitting the road, whether that means to be ready for a flat tire, car breakdown, or dead battery. Roadside assistance programs such as Liberty Mutual Insurance's 24-hour roadside assistance can help. It's also important not only to have their number saved in your cell phone but to also have it handy in the glove compartment in case your cell phone dies and you need to borrow a phone.