The world is slowly opening back up and road trips are still one of the safest ways to travel with family and friends. But before you head out the door and get behind the wheel, read this blog to discover how to best prepare your car for a road trip so you can spend more time enjoying the journey!
1. Bring your car in for routine maintenance.
A routine car maintenance check-up will cover all of your basic car maintenance needs from top to tire. Bring your car in to a dealership or trusted mechanic for an oil change, tire pressure and tread check, wiper blade and brake pad checks, and a full fluid check including motor oil, radiator coolant, brake fluid, coolant levels, power steering fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. Routine car maintenance should be scheduled every 5,000-10,000 miles, and especially before a long trip.
2. Check brake lights, headlights, and turn signals.
You'll want to be sure all of your headlights and taillights are working correctly before taking a long road trip. Be sure to turn your headlights on and click forward to ensure the brights are working too. Have a friend stand behind the car in park as you press gently on the brake. Both rear lights should illuminate simultaneously. Check the turn signals as well in both the back and front of the car. If any of your lights are out, a trusted mechanic or dealership can replace them easily before you leave.
3. Pack an auto-emergency kit.
If you don't already have one in the vehicle, prepare an auto-emergency kit to bring along for the ride. This kit should include a first aid kit, flashlight, paper map, dry snacks, water, a blanket, and some extra cash. Nobody wants to plan for an accident or car trouble, but it's always good to be prepared in the case of an unexpected emergency.
4. Plan a trip itinerary and let your friends know.
Whether you plan to go solo or with a group, you should always let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return from your road trip. Use Apple's "Find My Friends" app so they can track your location and plan an itinerary with general directions before you take off. It's always good to know how many hours you plan to drive in one day and the lodging for where you will stay. Planning an itinerary before you leave makes road trips less stressful and a lot more fun!
5. Prepare an on-road playlist.
Use your CarPlay feature for Spotify or Apple Music to listen to any podcast, music playlist, or the latest audiobook. Having a great playlist or podcast to drive to makes any road trip that much better!
6. Bring snacks and drinks for your cooler.
A road trip isn't a road trip without snacks for the drive! Prepare a cooler with snack items, drinks, and a picnic for a scenic stop. Planning ahead with food and drinks will also save you money from having to eat out for every meal. Some of the best road trip snacks are dry foods that are easy to eat while you drive with little mess like sunflower seeds, pre-popped popcorn, chips, dried fruit, gummy candies, and canned soda or sparkling water.
7. Make sure you have all of your documentation and car papers.
Don't leave town without your driver’s license, insurance papers, and car registration! Drive safe, follow road signals, and always be prepared with the correct driving documents – especially on longer road trips.
Above all, road trips should be fun and enjoyed with those you love most! Knowing how to prepare your car for a road trip will only ensure you have a better time without having to worry about vehicle maintenance, first aid, or having to stop for extra food. After following these 7 road trip tips, you'll be all set to enjoy the journey ahead!
Stay safe and enjoy your trip!
- Your friends at Bob Penkhus Volkswagen