Things need for first big trip (2000 miles)

[Whaley]

So we are headed to Florida in the bus in 3 weeks (75 mci mc8 done by Columbus custom coach in 1975)
I've check all fluids
I've got extra fluids
I've ordered extra belts
I've checked tire pressure
All lights are working
Air is all working
Everything on the camping side is working
Generator is working
And checked all fluids
What am I missing ??

[dtcerrato]

So we are headed to Florida in the bus in 3 weeks (75 mci mc8 done by Columbus custom coach in 1975)
I've check all fluids
I've got extra fluids
I've ordered extra belts
I've checked tire pressure
All lights are working
Air is all working
Everything on the camping side is working
Generator is working
And checked all fluids
What am I missing ??

The unexpected!
Safe travels..

[oltrunt]

Basic hand tools. extra fuel filters. traffic reflectors and safety vest, portable light source, well equipped first aid kit, plenty of drinking water and MREs.  Don't forget to take along the big self satisfied smile that comes with having reached the point of that first big trip!  Jack

[chessie4905]

Might, at least consider, getting Coachnet. Just one breakdown requiring towing can be very expensive.

[bronson]

Towing insurance and a side arm.

[BusNit]

Don't forget to bring along the American Express card

[buswarrior]

Coachnet
Coachnet
Coachnet

One tow bill will make your eyes water for weeks...

Happy coaching!
Buswarrior

[windtrader]

Noobie 2 stroke diesel busnuts soon find out how far and few between knowledgeable mechanics are and extra work and time needed to get parts, especially when on the road. Pull out a map, lay a line on your route, and start putting pins where you can get help if you break down.

Tow service is a no brainer when on a maiden long voyage. There is much comfort in knowing you got a number to call to get you to a place for help. This is tied to number one. know where you want to get towed. Chances are one of the pins is beyond the tow range but at least you have numbers to call and you have this board if you are not in a 911 situation.

Build in some slack in your schedule if you do need a repair. It will offer peace of mind if your schedule is flexible and takes off the stress.


Signup TSD gas program. Load GasBuddy app. Plan your fueling up, especially in these times.


Have fun.

[Dave5Cs]

12 & 20 ton air over hydrophilic jacks as well as two heavy jack stands. Garden sprayer if you lose prime.

[Tedsoldbus]

I carry 4 gallons of oil and a gallon of my trani fluid. Can be hard to find, for example, straight 40 wt oil going down the road. Fuel filters same thing. Other than that, have fun and remember it takes a while to stop your bus. I drive slower now due to texters. There will be things go wrong, but watch U tube on people driving new stuff. Same story. Helps you feel like you are not the Lone Ranger on "issues".
Best of luck and safe travels.

[Tedsoldbus]

Forgot 2 gallons of whatever coolant is in your bus now a 2 gallons distilled water....
Try not to worry. Enjoy it. Your in a BUS!!! That is just cool....

[Tedsoldbus]

Funnels! I forgot funnels on my first big trip. First time I needed to add oil.... didn't have one that reached. Look at trani , power steering, coolant etc that need fluid and pat yourself on the back if you have a way to get it in there. Put them in a big tupperware so they don't dribble in the belly bay after you use them. Going to Fla, carry a windshield brush for all the bug goo you will encounter. Lets you clean it whenever without going to a truck stop.

[richard5933]

Cash.

Lots of things you need in an emergency require cash. You can also get more done for less when dealing with cash instead of credit cards.

[muldoonman]

This. Better not leave home without it.

[chessie4905]

Careful, you get stopped and they find a roll of bills like that and they'll  suspect drug runner.lol