Hitting the road for an adventure soon? Before you set off, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is in top shape and that you’ve packed all the essentials for a smooth journey. From basic car maintenance to must-have supplies, here’s everything you need to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable road trip. Let’s dive in!

Car Maintenance Checks Before You Go

There are four essential car components worth checking before any long trip. Your brakes can be tested by simply applying them and checking for sponginess and responsivity. Your oil levels can be checked with the aid of a dipstick, or with your car’s onboard monitoring systems. Lights can be checked by turning them on, and tyre pressure can be checked at any good petrol station forecourt.

It might also be worth checking your windscreen wipers. These come with non-lasting rubber components, which are designed to be replaced periodically.

Essential Emergency Kit

No matter how diligently you prepare the vehicle, there will always exist a chance that it will fail to function properly when you need it. You’ll need to be able to react to an emergency situation, and that typically means having access to essential items like spare tyres and jumper cables. You might also pack a torch, a first aid kit, and a set of blankets.

Think about the items you’d like to have while you wait for a recovery vehicle and pack them. If you’re involved in a road traffic accident, the chances are good you’ll be needing some or all of these items.

Navigation and Communication

In order to actually reach your destination, you’ll need to be able to navigate. In the computer age, this is a simple matter of installing the right smartphone application, and making sure that it’s working properly. However, if you’re travelling through a part of the world where the mobile reception is patchy, then you might also take a backup map with you.

Food and Hydration

Getting through a long road trip without succumbing to grumpiness often means having a supply of snacks to hand. This goes especially if you have small children in the car. Look for dried fruit and nuts, which are filling. You’ll also want to take hydration seriously. A few refillable canteens of tap water should be enough.

Safety and Security Items

If you do become stranded at the roadside, then there are a few items that you might be called upon to use while you’re outside the vehicle. These might include reflective vests, warning triangles, and a fire extinguisher. These are items that you might hope that you never have to use – but you’ll be glad to have them when you do.

Weather-Related Preparations

Different times of year might impose different demands. During winter, having spare blankets might be important. In summer, sun protection might be worthwhile – or shades that can be attached to the rear passenger windows.

Documents and Contacts

There are a few essential items of information and paperwork that you might want to take with you. These include your driving license, insurance details, and any special emergency contacts. Don’t rely solely on your phone. If you’re crossing national boundaries, you might also need to take your passport and visa documents with you.

Explore With Erin Road Trips

If you’re looking for epic road trip inspiration, Explore with Erin has you covered! From the sun-soaked coasts of Australia to the breathtaking landscapes of the USA and Europe, Erin has mapped out some of the most unforgettable routes. Whether it’s chasing waterfalls, uncovering hidden gems, or indulging in the best road trip snacks along the way, her itineraries are packed with adventure, practical tips, and must-see stops.

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