The countdown to Thanksgiving is on, and that means one thing — road trip season! Whether you’re packing up the car for a cozy weekend with family or planning a winter getaway, a little prep now can make the miles ahead smooth and stress-free. So before you hit the highway, let’s make sure both your car and your crew are road trip ready.
1. Give Your Car a Quick Checkup
Take some time to make sure your vehicle is in good shape. A simple once-over now can prevent big headaches later.
- Tires: Start from the ground up. Check tread depth using the penny test — if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires. Adjust the air pressure to the manufacturer’s recommendation (listed on the inside of your driver’s door), and make sure your spare tire is in good shape and properly inflated.
- Battery: Car batteries tend to struggle in extreme temperatures. If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested before your trip. A weak battery can leave you stranded in a rest area or gas station parking lot — never fun with a trunk full of luggage and kids in the back seat.
- Lights: Do a quick walk-around to check your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. Replacing a bulb takes only a few minutes and improves both visibility and safety.
- Oil & Fluids: If you’re due (or close to due) for an oil change, take care of it before your trip. Clean oil helps your engine run more efficiently on long drives. Don’t forget to top off brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid, and coolant (anti-freeze) — especially if you’re heading into colder weather.
- Belts & Hoses: Pop the hood and look for cracks, fraying, or leaks. Worn-out belts and hoses are a common cause of breakdowns on long drives.
- Recalls: Before you leave, take a minute to look up your VIN at gov/recalls. It’s an easy way to see if your car has any unaddressed safety issues.
2. Stock Up and Plan for Emergencies
Even with the best prep, life can throw a curveball. A well-stocked emergency kit ensures you’re ready for whatever comes your way. Pack these essentials:
- Jumper cables
- First aid kit
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Blankets or emergency thermal wraps
- Reflective triangles or road flares
- Tire pressure gauge
- Tire sealant for small punctures
- Multipurpose tool or pocketknife
You’ll also want to keep a portable phone charger or power bank handy, especially if your car doesn’t have USB ports. Toss in personal medications, a small stash of cash (for tolls or emergencies), and some bottled water and nonperishable snacks in case you get delayed. For comfort, include pillows, cozy blankets, and a travel cooler filled with snacks and drinks. A happy car equals happy passengers — and fewer unscheduled pit stops!
3. Keep It Clean and Comfortable
Nothing ruins a road trip faster than clutter and chaos. Before you go, clean out the interior and start with a fresh, organized space. Make sure to bring along:
- A small trash bag or reusable bin for wrappers and napkins
- Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes for quick cleanups
- A travel-size tissue pack or paper towels
If you’re traveling with kids, you may want to childproof your car and stock up on car-friendly activities — audio books, travel games, or coloring pads. For adults, download your favorite playlists or podcasts before leaving areas with spotty reception. Little touches like seat cushions, neck pillows, or a cozy throw blanket can turn long stretches of highway into something a bit more comfortable.
4. Don’t Forget the Paperwork
Make sure your essential documents are where they belong. Keep your driver’s license in your wallet and your vehicle registration and insurance card together in your glove compartment for easy access. It’s also a good idea to store digital copies of key documents in your phone’s secure folder or email for backup.
Bringing your pet along? Don’t forget their vaccination records, ID tags, and pet insurance information. Pack food, a collapsible water bowl, leash, and waste bags. Remember to plan regular stops for bathroom breaks and walks — both for safety and comfort.
5. Secure Your Home Before You Go
A well-kept home sends the message that someone’s still around, discouraging would-be burglars and helping you relax on your trip. A few simple precautions can make it look like you never left.
- Let a trusted neighbor know your plans and how to reach you.
- Avoid posting your trip on social media until you’re back.
- Mow your lawn and tidy up the yard before you leave.
- Stop your mail and newspaper deliveries or ask a neighbor to collect them.
- Leave a car parked in your driveway or ask a friend to park there occasionally.
- Set indoor lights on timers to turn on and off automatically.
- Consider installing a home security system or video doorbell for extra reassurance.
6. Check the Forecast and Plan Your Route
Before you head out, check the weather — not just for your destination but for every major stop along your route. Knowing about snow, heavy rain, or construction zones can help you reroute or adjust your travel times. If the forecast calls for snow or ice, pack an ice scraper, small shovel, and sand or kitty litter for traction. You might not need them, but you’ll be glad to have them if you do.
Download a reliable navigation app like Google Maps or Waze and save offline maps in case of poor service. If you’ll be driving through rural or mountainous areas, keep a printed map as a backup — sometimes, old-school really is best.
7. Enjoy the Ride
Once your checklist is complete, it’s time to focus on the best part — making memories on the open road. Cue up a fun playlist, plan a few scenic stops, and don’t rush. Whether you’re watching the leaves change or catching a winter sunrise, the journey itself can be just as rewarding as the destination.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
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