Road Trip Ready: 10 Things to Check Before You Hit the Highway

Road trip checklist, car prep for travel, things to check before road trip, summer car maintenance, safe driving tips

7/22/20251 min read

road near mountain during daytime
road near mountain during daytime

Planning a road trip? Whether it’s 3 hours or 3 states, a little prep can save a whole lotta stress (and roadside meltdowns). Before you blast your playlist, run through this checklist.

  1. Tire Pressure & Tread – Bald tires are not a fashion statement.

  2. Oil Level – Old oil = grumpy engine.

  3. Wiper Blades – Can they handle a surprise storm?

  4. Lights – Headlights, brake lights, turn signals. Be seen.

  5. AC Check – No one wants to sweat through four states.

  6. Emergency Kit – Jumper cables, water, first-aid, snacks, charger.

  7. Registration/Insurance – Make sure they’re current.

  8. Brakes – Yes, again. You’re carrying lives.

  9. Washer Fluid – Bug guts are real.

  10. Maps – Because signal dies at the worst moments.