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You start to think of creative ways to store items in the nooks and crannies of your vehicle and sometimes may even have to leave a bag or two behind. To help ease any packing woes, we have provided a few car packing strategies to make sure you are still able to see through the rear-view mirror and provide comfort for any passengers for the long drive.
Clean the car
This might seem obvious but it’s a step many forget to do before a long drive. The less junk in your car, the more room you will have for packing belongings in the car. A day or two before the big road trip, clean the inside of your car, especially the trunk. Take out any items you won’t need for the trip. It’s also a good idea to have your car inspected to make sure it’s ready for the long journey.
Distribute weight evenly
Uneven weight in a car can potentially cause it to tip in the event of an accident. To help prevent this, place any heavier items such as suitcases in your car first. Place them on the floor of the trunk and push them towards the centre. Any lighter items such as beach bags and groceries can be placed on top of suitcases. Just be sure to not pack any items too high to obstruct the driver’s view.
Use vacuum storage bags
Bedding and various clothing can take up plenty of space in the car. If you can squeeze any bulky items into a vacuum storage bag it can considerably help when car packing. Vacuum storage bags are inexpensive, can protect your belongings and can fit into tight spaces in your car.
Use a roof rack
If you are really pressed for space, you can purchase a roof rack for lightweight cargo. If you put anything too heavy on a roof rack, it has the potential to fall off. Be sure to follow the instruction manual carefully when securing the car roof rack. Tie all items down as tightly as possible.
Don’t forget your car emergency kit
When packing your car, make sure you don’t toss out the car emergency kit. It can become your best friend on any road trip. Just make certain it’s fully stocked before the road trip and is adapted to your specific needs. It’s a good idea to be prepared for any worst case scenarios.
Make use of every space in your car. Any small items can be stored by your feet or under the car seats if there’s room. For greater piece of mind, make sure you’re auto insurance has got you covered.
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These tips are provided for information and prevention purposes only. They are general in nature, and Desjardins Insurance cannot be held liable for them. We recommend using caution and consulting an expert for comprehensive, tailored advice.
In Quebec, Desjardins Insurance refers to Desjardins General Insurance Inc. In Ontario and Alberta, Desjardins Insurance refers to Certas Direct Insurance Company, underwriter of automobile and property insurance.
