what should i do before going on a long road trip?

Question

what should i get checked on my car before going? what types of emergency items should i bring incase i get stranded some where?

Answer 1

Definitely get your oil changed, fill your gas tank, bring along a portable gas tank (empty for safety reasons, but just in case you run out of gas you can walk to get some), check your car's fluids (brake fluid, coolant, windshield wiper fluid), be sure your windshield wipers are in good condition, bring a first aid kit, flashlight, blanket, cell phone or calling card, batteries for flashlight, flares, tire changing tools, wear/bring good shoes in case you do need to walk, while driving take breaks if needed, and remember to pee before you leave!

Answer 2

I take long drives to Georgia from Missouri quite frequently. As far as your car goes, check all your fluids especially your oil. If it's pretty close to the time, it wouldn't hurt to go ahead and get an oil change. If not, just wait till you get back. Also, put a quart or two of oil in your trunk, so if when you check it on the road and you need some, you'll have it.
You should also check the air on your tires. You get better mileage if your tires aren't low. The maximum amount you should have is on your tires at the rim. If it says the max is like 42 p.s.i. fill to about 39-40. You don't want to overfill.
Getting your brakes checked isn't always necessary but if you want peace of mind if it's going to be a long trip, you can go ahead. Nothing like knowing your brakes are going to work.
Getting stranded isn't as big of a deal now-a-days as it used to be. But it doesn't hurt to have a blanket to keep warm in case it's cold and you have to wait on a tow truck or something. A flashlight can be helpful and a first aid kit in case you cut yourself while changing a tire or something. Otherwise, like I said, getting stranded isn't a big deal. With the highway system today, there's usually a gas station close by.
Hope this helps!

Answer 3

First off go to the bathroom. SECOND-bring extra blankets, snacks, drinks, first aid kit, road side assistance type stuff in case of a flat tire, 3 gallons or so of water, bring plenty of the stuff above to last you a couple of nights because you can never underestimate what might happen. On the car i would get the fluids all checked, the brakes, the tires, get an alignment, make sure your turn signals and your caution lights work, windshield wipers. Put some extra napkins, Kleenex, in the glove box, if you wear glasses some wet wipes for lenses, or dry eye contact solution, if it's cold some ice scrapers of different sizes, windshield DE icer, lock deicer, make sure your heat and air work properly, and your car battery is fully charged. Never run the radio without the car engine running, you'll kill your car battery quick.
I hoped this helps. good luck and have fun.

Answer 4

make sure your home is secure before leaving. Stop all mail, newspaper service. Put lights on a timer. For the car, take bottled water and some power/granola bars. First aid lit. Fast-Fix flat tire . Also, have a towel ( in case of spills)... are you traveling someplace cold? If so, throw a blanket in the trunk. Also, wet-naps. For the car check, go to a full serve station. Have them check the hoses, water level, oil, wiper fluid.... the standard stuff. They'll know exactly what to look for. Are your tires in good shape. Do you have a spare? Have a safe trip.

Answer 5

Get a 21 point maintenance of your car before going

Change Motor oil & Oil filter

Check Visible belts,Visible hoses,Anti-freeze level,PCV valve & filter,Air filter,Exterior lights,Exhaust system,Wiper blades,Tire pressure,Brake fluid level

Lubricate Chassis,Door and hood hinges

Top Off Transmission fluid,Power steering fluid,Battery fluid
Window washer fluid,Differential fluid

Clean your windows and interiors...( they will get dirty during the trip!)

Emergency items:
Fresh drinking water.
Food (nuts, dried fruit, energy bars or cans of liquid nourishment).
Waterproof matches and candle.
Flashlight. /batteries
Road Flares.
Whistle.
Blankets.
First Aid Kit.
Towel.
Collapsible Shovel.
Jumper Cables.
Cell Phone & charger.
Rope.
Cutting device (box cutter, pocket knife).
Duct tape.
Tool kit.
Gloves, hat and boots.
Chains or traction devices.

Depending on where you are going, wether there will be snow or dessert you may want to customize the emergency kit.

Answer 6

While you're checking the car, don't forget to check the SPARE TIRE!

Always have water and snacks, especially if you're traveling in the west.

Have fun!