Get your vehicle road trip-ready with these essential prep tips and packing suggestions.
Summer is the perfect time for road trips—whether you’re heading to a beach getaway, a national park adventure, or visiting family across the state. But before you load up the car and hit the highway, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is ready for the journey ahead. Taking the time to prepare now can help prevent breakdowns, keep your passengers safe, and ensure a stress-free ride.
At Harris Automotive, we’ve put together a list of helpful tips to get your car road-trip-ready this summer.
Schedule a Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
Before any long drive, it’s wise to have your car checked by a professional. Our ASE-certified technicians at Harris Automotive can perform a free safety inspection to make sure everything is in top shape. Key areas we check include:
- Brakes: Ensure they’re responsive and show no signs of wear.
- Tires: Check tread depth, inflation, and look for damage or uneven wear.
- Fluids: Top off or change essential fluids like oil, coolant, brake, and windshield washer fluid.
- Battery: Test battery health to avoid unexpected dead batteries.
- Belts & Hoses: Look for cracks or wear that could lead to breakdowns.
- Lights & Wipers: Ensure headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and wipers are working properly.
Check Your Tires
Hot pavement and long drives can be tough on your tires. Make sure to:
- Inspect tire pressure before your trip (don’t forget the spare).
- Rotate tires if it’s been a while since your last rotation.
- Pack a tire pressure gauge and check pressure periodically during your trip.
Keep Your Cool with a Healthy Cooling System
Summer heat can put serious strain on your engine. Make sure your cooling system is working properly:
- Check coolant levels and condition.
- Inspect the radiator, hoses, and water pump for signs of leaks or wear.
- Flush and replace coolant if it’s old or contaminated.
Pack a Summer Road Trip Emergency Kit
No matter how well you prepare, unexpected issues can happen. Be ready with a stocked emergency kit:
- Jumper cables or a portable jump starter
- First aid kit
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Tire inflator and sealant or spare tire kit
- Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
- Cell phone charger (car adapter and portable power bank)
- Emergency contact numbers and insurance info
- Roadside flares or reflective triangles
Keep Passengers Comfortable and Entertained
Long drives can be tiring, especially with kids. Make the ride more enjoyable with:
- Sunglasses and sunshade for the dash
- Phone mounts or GPS for easy navigation
- Playlists, audiobooks, or games for entertainment
- Travel pillows and light blankets
- Reusable water bottles and a small cooler for drinks
Plan Your Route and Rest Stops
- Use a navigation app to check traffic, construction, and fuel stops.
- Take breaks every 2-3 hours to stretch, rest, and stay alert.
- Know the weather. Check conditions along your route to prepare for storms or heat waves.
Let Harris Automotive Help You Hit the Road with Confidence
Before you head out on your summer road trip, make an appointment with Harris Automotive for a comprehensive vehicle check-up. Our friendly team will ensure your car is ready for the miles ahead, so you can focus on enjoying the journey.
Schedule Your Pre-Trip Check Today!
Make your summer road trip safe, fun, and worry-free. Contact Harris Automotive today to schedule your vehicle inspection and travel with peace of mind this season!
