Travel
The Road Trip Checklist: What to Check Before You Drive
Fifteen minutes of preparation can prevent most of the problems that spoil a long drive.
Road trips are one of the most flexible and affordable ways to travel. A little preparation before you leave keeps the trip about the scenery instead of the side of the road.
The car
- Tire pressure and tread. Use the pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s door, checked when the tires are cold. Do not forget the spare.
- Fluids. Engine oil, coolant and windshield washer fluid.
- Lights and wipers. Walk around the car with someone pressing the brakes and turning on the signals.
- Service reminders. If a service is due soon, get it done before the trip.
In the car
- Phone chargers and a mount for navigation.
- Offline maps downloaded for areas with poor signal.
- Water and simple snacks.
- A basic first aid kit, flashlight and jumper cables.
- Paper copies of insurance and roadside assistance numbers.
- A small trash bag and wipes.
On the road
- Plan a break every two hours or so to stretch and swap drivers.
- Fill up before the tank drops below a quarter, especially in rural areas.
- Share your route and rough timing with someone at home.
- Check the weather along the route, not just at your destination.
Tip: keep a small “first night” bag with toiletries and a change of clothes on top, so you do not need to unpack the whole trunk at a late check-in.
This article is for general information only and is not professional advice. How we work.