How to Make Your Car 100% Ready for That Big Summer Road Trip

There’s nothing more American than packing a bag, hopping in the car, and feasting on the open road. Sure, planes get you places faster, but road trips aren’t just about the destination. Road trips are about the journey. Some of your greatest memories are the times you spend with friends and family on a summer road trip. Not being prepared, however, can surely put a damper on your trip. Here’s how to make sure your car is 100 percent ready for any curveball that comes your way.

Make sure you car is in tip-top physical shape

Nothing will ruin a road trip like car troubles. Not only will it steal time from your trip, but it’ll cost you money that you’d much prefer spending on your lodging and entertainment. Long trips put a lot of strain on a car, so it’s absolutely crucial that your car is in perfect (or as close as you can get to perfect) working condition before you even leave your driveway.

If you are the do-it-yourself type, much of what needs checking for a long road trip is pretty easy to look over. The following fluid levels should be checked: engine oil, transmission fluid, antifreeze/coolant, radiator coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, and power steering fluid. These fluids are usually well-marked and easy to assess.

“You should also check your tire pressure. The number on the tire’s side is the maximum pressure it can withstand, not the recommended amount. Your tires should be a little less inflated in winter, and closer to their maximum in summer. Never inflate your tires too much as it could provoke a blowout. And don’t forget that paramount spare tire, just in case,” suggests AskMen.com.

Also, don’t forget to check your battery (free at most auto shops/stores), brake lights, headlights, and of course, if there’s a light on your dashboard, take you car in for service. If your car battery hasn’t been changed in years, this might be worth doing now to avoid being stranded on a desolate stretch of road. Car batteries are generally pretty inexpensive and can be easily installed.

Make sure your car is stocked with the essentials

For added safety on your trip, it’s always a good idea to have an emergency kit stashed in the back of your car. Items like a tire iron, a first aid kit, jumper cables and water are a great place to start.

Depending on how far off the beaten path your road trip takes you, and whether you are traveling with children, you may want to bring a good deal more. That first aid kit should include important medications (an EpiPen for diabetics) a flashlight, and blankets. Apart from that, don’t forget a good old fashioned map or road atlas. Sure, you have Google Maps, but if you lose internet service you need to be able to find your way around.

If you want to save money on your trip and avoid overeating junk food or fast food, pack up a cooler with healthy, easily portable snacks the whole family can enjoy. PB&J sandiwches, veggies and hummus, fruit leather or nuts, all of the

Plan for stops

If the goal of your trip is to enjoy the open road and you’re not in a hurry, you’re likely planning on stopping periodically to get gas, take in the sites, stretch your legs or grab a sandwich. Ideally, you don’t want to drive for too long without stopping. It’s a great way to wear yourself out and is just plain uncomfortable.

In the end, a road trip is about freedom – but you don’t want to be so carefree that you forget to make sure your car will make the trip and is packed with all the essentials necessary if the unexpected happens to occur. Don’t forget to check your car’s main mechanical functions and pack everything for an emergency – the open road is yours!