PACKING SMARTS


STOW SMART In the main cargo space, keep the center of gravity low by packing the biggest, heaviest things fi rst. If the cargo space is open to the main cabin, secure last-packed items so they don’t become hazards during quick stops or crashes.


FOOD PLAN The fi nal items: a cooler stocked with meal


and beverage options, and a tote or tub


fi lled with picnic gear such as plates and wet wipes. Toss in a Frisbee or other rest- stop playthings. Stash a small


snacks-only cooler in the main cabin,


within easy reach. BAG IT Ask each


time-passing tote


with activities, books and other options to keep handy. Consider sneaking in a special surprise pack for kids, with items such as stamped postcards, special snacks, magazines and money for souvenirs.


MAKE ROOM Roof racks and car- back carriers for cargo, bikes and other sporting equipment can free up lots of space in your


road-tripper to pack his or her own


TIPS TO HELP YOU CONTAIN AND TRANSPORT YOUR ROAD TRIP ESSENTIALS WITH EASE. worth of bedtime


vehicle and help transport unwieldy equipment. Look for waterproof, UV- resistant items that are easy to load and don’t hinder access to the vehicle.


ONE-BAG WONDER Stock a suitcase or duff el with a night’s


essentials for the whole family, and stow within easy


reach. When it’s time to head into your home for the night, instead of hauling bag after bag full of things you don’t necessarily need, you’ll have just one.


ON-THE- ROAD SAFETY FOR KIDS


No time like a long road trip for a refresher on how to keep kids safe in and around cars. Here’s how to get up to speed:


Make this rule: Kids younger than 13 years old ride like VIPs—in the backseat only.


Make sure your child’s car seat is installed correctly. (See “Car Seat


Safety Checklist,” bottom left.) It’s estimated that a whopping 73 percent are not.


Use a booster seat until your child is at least 4 feet 9 inches tall AND at least 80 pounds.


Never leave kids or pets alone in the vehicle, even for a minute, with cracked-open windows. In 70ºF weather, vehicles can reach life-threatening temperatures for children within minutes.


CAR SEAT SAFETY CHECKLIST


Car seats are built for safety, but if installed or used incorrectly—as nearly three out of four are—they’re not as safe as they could be. Use this checklist to make sure yours properly protects your little passengers.


In a rear-facing position until age 2 In the backseat Appropriate to the child’s height and


weight (read car seat label or manual) Does not move more than an inch in


any direction when shaken 8 goodneighbor® Cannot pinch any excess strap over the


child’s shoulder when harness is buckled tight, with chest clip at armpit level


Is not expired (read car seat label or manual)


Not sure your seat’s safe? Go to safercar.gov to fi nd an inspection station near you.


Always lock your vehicle, including the trunk, when not in use. Make sure kids know the trunk is never a place to play.


Practice parking lot safety. Designate a safe spot for kids to wait, and hold hands when you walk.


Secure the backseat. Enable any child safety locks. Remove potential choking hazards.


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