How to plan your moving road trip | Jacksonville Toyota

Anyone who has ever moved, either by themselves or with the help of movers will most likely attest to the fact that moving is one of the most stressful things you can do. Sure, it is a lot easier if you are staying in your home state. A cross-country move is even more to plan for, especially if you have kids and pets. Here’s a guide that will help make your move smoother.  

Check out our Road Trip Playlist to help the time go by faster. You can queue it up while you pack / unpack and while driving. 

Make a moving list and check it twice 

Before you lock the doors of your old house for the last time, make sure that you have the following:
 

• Car keys and the spares 
• Car chargers for cell phones  
• Cash – just in case
• Car manual  

• Jumper cables  
• Flashlight 
• First aid kit  

• Hand sanitizer – (EPH – Emergency Pitstops Happen) be prepared for no soap in bathrooms.  
• Plastic shopping bags to use for trash   
• Lots of water
   

If you’re traveling with children, here’s what to bring to keep them entertained: 

• iPad, iPad car charger, and ear pods 

• Coloring books  
• Snacks  
• Several children’s books  
• Card games  

Long-Distance Road Trip Tips 

Get A Vehicle Checkup before you leave Jacksonvile, Yulee, Baldwin or the surrounding area

Get your vehicle(s) checked out, tuned up and oiled up (if it is due) before you head out from Jacksonville on your road trip. You never know what problem could be lurking and the last thing you want to have happen is to have your vehicle break down while you are trying to move. We have terrific specials and will have you in and out so you can get on with your move.  

Here are some of the service options we offer to keep your Toyota in good shape. Definitely make sure your fluids are replaced.  

Travel with A Second Vehicle  

When moving, if you and your partner have two vehicles, it is a great idea to follow one another. We highly recommend getting some basic walkie-talkies so you can quickly and easily communicate with everyone in your caravan with the press of a button!  

If a vehicle breaks down and you’ve bought it from Butler, you likely have access to road side assistance which is included with our certified pre-owned vehicles.But it is a nice safety precaution, especially at night, if you can follow each other.  

Mapping out your travel route for your move  

“I like to fly by the seat of my pants when it comes to a cross country moving trip” said no one ever. Sure, you can look at a map and have a guideline of which city you’ll stop in. But it’s better to have your hotel booked in advance. That way, you’ll know exactly how much you need to budget. You can also check gas prices here. Protip: Due to increased gas prices, many credit card companies have increased the temporary hold to your credit card when you fill up. This threshold ties up a certain amount on your card for a couple days even if you don’t use the entire amount. You should plan for this if your credit cards are near the limit. We all know moving isn’t cheap!  

Read Up on Roadside Rules 

Highway laws can vary significantly from state to state. For example, 24 U.S. states, such as Georgia, completely outlaw holding a phone while driving, even if you’re not talking or reading a text. Not to mention speed limits change frequently and road signs come up quickly.  

Brake for Nature 

While you’re on your road trip move, it is vital to take rests along the way. While you are at it, why not check out some of the fun spots to stop. Chances are, you won’t have this opportunity to stop at these out of the way places in the future.  Locations like national parks, national monuments help break up the journey. And short hikes are great ways to stop and stretch your legs. 

Use Media to fight Boredom during your long moving trip

Eight hours or more can feel like a lifetime when driving in a car, especially for the little ones in the back. To help time go by faster, pack a variety of media – books, iPads, music with ear buds for passengers. Audiobooks, podcasts, and some Spotify playlists (like this  Road Trip Playlist for Jax), for the driver. 

Don’t be a road warrior on your moving road trip 

You just want to get to your destination, so you may be tempted to try and pull an all-nighter but that can be a very dangerous thing. Resist the urge to beat your navigation app’s suggested time – it’s not worth your safety. Try to aim for no more than 8 hours a day. Stretching your legs helps keep everyone comfy for the trip and reduces the risk of blood clots. 

Luckily many newer autos are equipped with safety features to help avoid an accident. Many of these include a coffee symbol if you veer out of your lane too often, an indication you may be sleepy. 

Related – Toyota safety features 

Watch your gas tank too. Most modern vehicles get over 25 miles to the gallon. Always keep an eye on your gas meter and if your low gas light is on, keep an eye on your remaining range and get to the next exit.  

Follow the handy tips in this guide, you will be able to avoid potential pitfalls and have a safe and fun trip to your new household.