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Road Trip Preparation
Here at JBugs, we are all about summer road trips, especially when it is in one of our favorite classic VW's. We decided to put a list together of all the essentials needed before you head out on the road. From the best phone apps (yes, to use while driving) to spare parts, we think we covered just about everything.
First and foremost, you need to know where you are going and how to get there. Waze, a real-time traffic and navigation app, constantly updates to show accidents, traffic, road work and even cops. It will help you not only find your way but also find a way around obstacles to avoid losing time better than any other navigation system out there.
Secondly, what is a road trip without a great playlist?! But what if you do not have a radio in your classic VW? Do not worry, we said we had you covered. We have replica radios and upgraded speakers for every model of classic VWs, each with an auxiliary input so you can play your iPod, iPhone or other MP3 players.
One of the best apps to use with your VW radio is iHeartRadio which has thousands of free artist and song stations. There are no commercials, except when you choose to listen to any of the live stations it has available. The best part about this app, if you choose to pay for the All Access upgrade, is the ability to listen offline just in case you lose service along those long and windy roads. There is never a dull moment when you are traveling with the iHeartRadio app, especially when it is playing out of a VW replica radio with upgraded sound.
When it comes to packing a bag, luggage cases can be a bit bulky and barely leave enough room for comfort or more importantly, the cooler full of snacks and drinks. We recommend packing your items on one of our official VW bags or backpacks. We have an entire line of high quality bags that are fun, functional and sure to show of your love for VW's while keeping your items neatly packed away.
If you need more room for luggage, we also carry roof racks for extra storage. These racks are made of 16 gauge steel and include locks to keep your stuff safe.
We also recommend consoles or wire frame baskets to keep things organized on your trip. The more room you can save, the better, especially for the next road trip essential on the list.
One of the bulkiest items, a 50 quart cooler,can hold at least 25 pounds of ice and will keep your drinks and food cold for over 12 hours. It may seem like you have an entire fridge in your car, but snacks are essential for a road trip, especially when the chances of breaking down in a classic are pretty high.
Because there is a chance of breaking down, it is imperative to carry an emergency roadside kit, old blanket, fire extinguisher and first aid kit, as well as toiletries such as toilet paper, hand sanitizer, sunscreen and Tylenol, and small bags for trash.
These items are important for all vehicle owners, but we have more tools specifically for classic VW owners. We found that all classic VW's have similar problems on long trips, so we compiled a list of items that are a must to bring on road trips. Keep in mind these are just some suggestions, you know your car and your abilities to make road side repairs best. We can tell you from our own experiences though, something as simple as a barrel nut or an electrical terminal and pliers can make the difference between sitting on the side and driving home.
- 1. Haynes manual or Owner's manual
- 2. Spare parts
- Accelerator Cable & Barrel Nut
- Fan belt
- Fuses
- Fuel Filter Hose & Clamps
- Set of spark plugs
- Points, distributor, rotor arm and dizzy cap
- Plug leads
- Clutch Cable & Wingnut
- Coil
- Generator/Alternator Pulley, Shims & Keyway
- Vacuum Hose (if you have a vacuum advance distributor)
- 3. Tools for roadside maintenance
- Wheel brace or long breaker bar
- Impact sockets
- Jack
- Lug nuts
- Spark plug tool
- Vice Grips
- Metric Wrench Set
- Metric Socket Set with Ratchets & Extensions
- Metric Allen Key Set
- Screwdriver Set (large, medium & small, Phillips & flathead)
- Large Crescent/Adjustable Wrench
- Pliers (Bullnose, needle nose, snips/side cutters & electrical)
- T handle tool
- Electrical Terminal Crimp Ends
- Spool of wire
- Safety Wire
- Zip Ties
- Electrical Tape
- Duct Tape
- 4. Replacement fluids
- Can of oil
- Extra fuel
- As well as a funnel and rags
We know that this list may seem a bit overwhelming and most of you are thinking, where am I going to put all of that stuff? But trust us, it is way better to be over-prepared than under-prepared. Especially with all the VW events happening across the country this summer, you need to get yourself ready for some fun in the sun.
