There’s nothing like hitting the open road on a long-awaited trip, but you don’t want car trouble to put a damper on your plans. Hours behind the wheel can put extra strain on your vehicle, and small issues that go unnoticed at home can turn into bigger problems along the way.
Before you pack the snacks, queue up your favorite playlist and head off, take a little time to get your car ready for the journey. A few simple checks can help you avoid unnecessary hiccups and enjoy a smoother ride.
Inspect Your Brakes and Suspension
Your brakes and suspension face extra demands from your luggage, long stretches of highway, and steep descents into breathtaking destinations like Yosemite Valley, Death Valley, and Zion Canyon.
Before you set off, have a mechanic assess your pads, rotors, shocks, and struts for wear or damage.
Grinding noises, vibrations when you slow down, excessive bouncing after bumps, or a car that dips sharply when you brake can all signal problems. Don’t let a worn part dictate how your road trip goes; make sure your undercarriage is ready for the miles ahead.
Check Your Engine Fluids
Your engine has a lot of work to do on a long road trip, so confirm it has what it needs to keep running properly.
Check the oil level and condition, top up the coolant if needed, and make sure your brake and power steering fluids are within the recommended ranges. Refill your windshield washer reservoir so bugs and road grime don’t obstruct your view, and if you drive a diesel vehicle, check the diesel exhaust fluid level, too. This will prevent reduced-power mode and help you avoid nerve-wracking no-start situations.
Test Your Car Battery
Your battery does more than get the engine running. It also supplies power to your car’s electrical systems, so a weak battery can cause problems well beyond a failed start.
Check the terminals for corrosion, make sure the connections are secure, and have a mechanic test the battery’s condition, particularly if it’s between three and five years old. Long drives put extra demands on your vehicle’s electrical system, making a pre-trip check non-negotiable, especially if you plan to take in remote areas like the Dalton Highway, El Camino del Diablo, the Burr Trail, and Beartooth Highway.
Read Your Insurance Policy
Take a few minutes to review your auto insurance policy and make sure you have the coverage you need for the trip. Ensure your policy is current, your coverage limits still suit your needs, and your insurance details are easy to access on the road.
Also check whether your policy includes roadside assistance, towing, rental car reimbursement, and emergency services if your vehicle breaks down far from home. Most auto policies cover you across state lines, too, but it’s sensible to confirm the details with your insurer before you leave. If your coverage isn’t adequate, get a car insurance quote from another provider to see if there is a better option at a good price.
Pack an Emergency Car Kit
Even with your vehicle checked and ready, unexpected delays can still leave you waiting for help far from the nearest town. Keep a few essentials within reach, with extra supplies suited to the weather and terrain along your route.
A headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries comes in handy after dark, while bottled water, non-perishable snacks, and spare layers help you stay comfortable if a minor problem turns into a lengthy delay.
Confirm Your Vehicle Weight Limits
Overloading your vehicle can affect handling, braking performance, suspension, and fuel efficiency. Check the manufacturer’s weight limits in your owner’s manual and account for passengers, luggage, and any additional equipment.
Distribute your belongings evenly to maintain balance and keep heavier items low and secure, so they don’t shift during sudden stops or sharp turns. Remember to include the weight of roof racks, bike carriers, and other accessories in your calculations.
Pay attention to how much space bulky items take up. Luggage piled too high can block rear visibility and make it harder to check traffic behind you, and you’ll need to leave enough room for the tools and supplies you’ll want within reach during the drive.
Ensure You Have The Right Tools for a Long Road Trip
Some jobs call for more than a phone and a call to roadside assistance. The right equipment can help you tackle simple repairs, handle minor mishaps, and stay connected if something goes wrong. Choose items that suit your vehicle and make sure you know how to operate them before you need them:
Charging Cables and Power Inverter: Make sure you can keep your phone, laptop, or camera charged when you can’t plug into a regular outlet.
Physical Map: Gives you a paper reference for following roads and finding alternative routes.
Portable Air Compressor: Allows you to adjust tire pressure to suit changing driving conditions.
Socket Set: Provides different socket sizes for tightening or removing compatible nuts and bolts.
Tire Sealant: Offers a temporary repair option for certain punctures.
Be 100% Prepared Before You Pull Out the Drive
Nobody wants to spend their road trip waiting for a tow truck or hunting down a repair shop in an unfamiliar town. Get your car ready before you leave, and pack what you need to give yourself extra time if plans change for reasons beyond your control.
It’s worth making a little extra effort at the start. This will ensure you have time to enjoy the drive, explore a few worthwhile stops, and focus on why you hit the road in the first place.
