Emergency Warning Triangle and Car Safety Equipment Outdoors

Prepping Your Car for a Family Road Trip

Going on a family road trip can either be an exciting time, or it can be a nightmare. If you know, you know right?

The difference between the two is adequate prep for your road trip, including prepping your car since it will most likely be taking you many miles.

Whether you’re venturing through the Blue Ridge mountains, the picturesque national parks in California, or visiting captivating cities in the Midwest, it’s important to plan for all possibilities, adverse weather, and anything else that could send you down the wrong road. 

Not sure where to start? No problem as below we’ve got you covered with the most important things to cover down on when prepping your car for a family road trip. 

Mechanic Checks the Engine Oil Level, Car Service

Get your tires in order

Your tires are one of the most important features in your car when it comes to safety. According to statistics, at least 562 motor vehicle traffic fatalities in 2022 were related to poor tire condition. 

The National Traffic Highway Safety Administration advises to check your tires at least once a month.

Ensuring adequate inflation can help your tires to last longer and save you money in the long run.

You should also have a professional check for correct alignment, rotation and balance of your tires before any long road trip. 

If in doubt, it’s best to invest in new tires for safety. Be sure to purchase high-quality tires  with an adequate treadwear rating. 

Pack an emergency kit

Plan for the worst and hope for the best. While there’s every hope your road trip will be an enjoyable family adventure, it’s best to play on the safe side and also pack for any unplanned incidents such as breaking down, adverse weather, or sudden illness.

Some things to pack in your emergency car kit should include:

  • A first aid kit – From grazed knees to splinters, it’s always wise to carry a first aid kit.
  • Jumper cables – In case you break down or need to help anyone else stranded with a flat battery. 
  • Non-perishable snacks – In case you get stranded somewhere remote or stuck in heavy traffic.
  • Water – You never know when you may not be able to access this, especially if you’re in a storm.
  • Road flares and reflective triangles – in case you break down or have an accident.

General car maintenance

It goes without saying that your car should be in good working condition before going on a long trip, however many small but simple aspects of good car maintenance can easily be overlooked.

Things like replacing the windscreen wipers, making sure brake fluids and engine coolant are topped up, replacing air filters and checking brake pads are not excessively worn are all important things to check off your prep list. 

Have entertainment for the kids

Nothing is worse than tantrums and whining half an hour into the road trip. If you have little ones accompanying you on the adventure, be sure to pack their own adventure bags to keep them comfortable and happy on the adventure too.

Packing coloring with aqua pens can be a great way to keep little ones entertained, without worrying about crayon marks all over your leather seats.

Another savvy addition is a rotating snack container that will keep little ones happy for hours as they explore the different snacks.

Check the driving regulations in the state you are traveling to

While there are certain driving laws that are universal across the country, others vary from state to state.

For example, it is illegal to text and drive in California, while it is legal in Nebraska. There are also different speed limits in every state so be sure to check before you travel.  

Overall, going on a road trip is an exciting time and can seem much simpler than traveling by plane or other forms of public transport.

However, remember the motto: plan for the worst and hope for the best and you’ll be sure to have a great time while also being prepared for everything your road trip throws at you.