7 basic tips to prepare your vehicle for a long road trip

Road trips are a great way to holiday, whether you bring your whole family, just your partner or you go at it alone.

The freedom of exploring at your own pace and following the route you yourself have mapped out is priceless. In order for your road trip to be a perfect success you need to be able to rely completely on your vehicle of choice.

This means that your car has to be in top shape in order to withstand all those days on the road, especially since you might not have a reliable mechanic waiting for you just around the next curve.

This article includes the seven most important tips that will help you ensure your car is ready to bear the pressure of the long drive.

1. Give it a once over

Even if you maintain your car regularly it is best to have it checked by professionals before embarking on your trip. If you are too busy to take it to a car service, you can always have your reliable mobile mechanic check it in your own garage. Make sure you inform them that you are getting ready for a road trip so that they can do a thorough check of all the vital parts, including everything from the axle to the fuel supply.

2. Do the little things yourself

The day before you begin your road trip it is advisable to check all your fluid levels, from the engine oil level to air conditioning coolant and washer fluid. You should also pack some of them so that you can top it up on the road, without having to look for a mechanic or pump. In addition you should also verify your tire pressure is adequate. Finally, don’t forget to check your battery to make sure it’s strong and has clean terminals.

3. Make sure you pack the car essentials

Before you start packing your luggage, you have to make sure you have packed such things as an emergency medical kit and some basic tools. In addition, in case of emergencies it would be wise to have a couple of flashlights at hand along with a thermal blanket. You should also keep in mind that you need to have a spare tyre, and that your jack is working properly.

4. Prep the car interior for the trip

The first step is to give your car interior a good wash, you can do this yourself or have a car cleaning service do it for you. After all you are going to spend a lot of time in this space and it is important that you feel comfortable. Make sure you decide on the placement of things, from your water bottle to snacks. It is important that you get distracted as little as possible while on the road, so keep everything within easy reach. Don’t forget that you are going to spend hours in the driver’s seat, so it is advisable to get special car seat covers that will provide you with the proper lumbar support and ease the tension in your back and legs.

5. Tech up

Traditionally, you’d have a map in your glove compartment to stop you from getting lost. Now all you need is to type in the desired route in your smartphone. Just make sure you have the proper mount and charger, so that you can keep your phone going for as long as you need it. If you want, instead of using your phone, opt for a reliable GPS navigation, and insert your route in advance. Make sure it has been updated so you have the information on road works and street closures on time. Don’t forget to include a great tech option for music, you can either make a playlist, or stream it from your phone. Either way, a road trip isn’t a road trip without the proper soundtrack.

6. Weigh your cargo

Don’t over pack, the extensive weight over a long period of time can do damage to your vehicle. Try to pack smart and asses the optimal weight of both your luggage and passengers in order to ensure your road safety is not jeopardised. You should make sure you know your car’s weight limits.

7. Don’t forget the paperwork

Your car is ready to embark on a long road trip, it is in great shape, everything is prepared and packed, but do you have all the right paperwork? Make sure you have the right insurance papers for all the destinations on your route, both for your car and yourself. You need to be prepared in case of an accident.

So, there you have it. Your car is now ready for that long road trip, now just sit back and enjoy the ride!