practical and essential tips for long driving

 

🚘 BEFORE YOU START: PREPARATION

✅ 1. Vehicle Check-Up

• Engine oil, coolant, brake oil – top-up if needed

• Tyres: check air pressure (including the spare)

• Wipers, lights, horn, AC – test all

• Keep the toolkit, jack, and puncture kit handy

• Get the battery, brakes, and wheel alignment checked

✅ 2. Plan the Route & Stops

• Use Google Maps offline for your route

• Identify petrol pumps, dhabas, and rest areas every 100–150 km

• Download music, audiobooks, or bhajans in advance

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🧍‍♂️ WHILE DRIVING

✅ 3. Start Early

• Start around 5–6 AM to avoid traffic and enjoy cool weather

• Take breaks every 2–3 hours to stretch, eat, and rest

✅ 4. Avoid Speeding

• Keep speed between 70–90 km/h

• Use cruise control on highways if your car has it

✅ 5. Use Both Hands on Wheel

• Especially on ghat sections like Bhimashankar roads

• Avoid eating while driving – switch seats if needed

✅ 6. Watch for Road Signs

• Watch out for speed breakers, cattle, or narrow bridges in rural areas

• Always slow down at village entries

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🧃 STAY HYDRATED & ENERGIZED

✅ 7. Eat Light

• Avoid heavy meals that make you drowsy

• Carry snacks like dry fruits, banana, biscuit, ORS, water bottles

✅ 8. Avoid Drowsiness

• Keep peppermint, gum, or lemon handy to stay alert

• Play lively music or keep windows slightly open if feeling sleepy

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🧰 EMERGENCY KIT ESSENTIALS

Item	Purpose
First aid kit	Cuts, headaches, motion sickness
Power bank	Keep phone charged
Torch or headlamp	In case of night issues
Printed map or notes	Backup if GPS fails
Car charger + cable	Must-have

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🌧️ IF DRIVING IN MONSOON (July):

• Carry an umbrella or raincoat

• Turn on headlights and fog lights

• Drive slow on wet roads and avoid flooded patches