Planning a Road Trip the Right Way

Road trips are one of the great pleasures of driving — but a lack of preparation can turn an adventure into a stressful ordeal. This checklist covers everything you need to sort out before you leave, from vehicle safety to route planning and what to keep in the car.

Table of Contents

  1. Route Planning
  2. Vehicle Preparation
  3. What to Pack
  4. Navigation Setup
  5. Day-of Checklist

1. Route Planning

  • Decide on your main destination and rough daily driving targets — aiming for 4–6 hours of driving per day keeps it enjoyable.
  • Research rest stops, fuel stations, and towns along the way, especially through remote areas.
  • Have a backup route in case of closures or construction — check your state's DOT website for planned roadwork.
  • Book accommodations in advance for peak-season travel, especially popular destinations.
  • Note any toll roads and whether you need a toll transponder or cash.

2. Vehicle Preparation

Get your car checked at least a week before departure so there's time to address any issues.

  • Tires: Check pressure (including the spare), tread depth, and look for sidewall cracks or uneven wear.
  • Oil: Check the level and check when the next oil change is due — don't go on a long trip overdue for one.
  • Coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid: All should be topped up.
  • Brakes: Listen for squealing or grinding. If in doubt, have them inspected.
  • Lights: Walk around the car and verify all headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals work.
  • Belts and hoses: A quick visual check for cracks or fraying.
  • Battery: If your battery is 3+ years old, consider having it tested.

3. What to Pack

Emergency Kit (always in the car)

  • Jumper cables or a portable jump starter
  • Reflective warning triangles or road flares
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Flashlight with fresh batteries
  • Tire inflator / fix-a-flat spray
  • Blanket and rain poncho
  • Phone charger and backup battery pack

Comfort and Convenience

  • Water and snacks (save money, avoid unnecessary stops)
  • A physical road atlas (your backup if tech fails)
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Neck pillow and small blanket for passengers
  • Reusable bags for trash

4. Navigation Setup

  • Pre-load your route in Google Maps or Apple Maps before you leave and download offline maps for areas with poor signal.
  • Set up a phone mount so you can glance at the screen safely.
  • Enable "avoid tolls" or "avoid highways" settings if those are preferences.
  • Share your trip itinerary with someone at home who isn't traveling with you.

5. Day-Of Checklist

  1. Start with a full tank of gas.
  2. Quick visual walk-around — check tires visually, nothing left on the roof.
  3. Confirm phone is charged and navigation is loaded.
  4. Let someone know your departure time and expected route.
  5. Plan your first stop for roughly 2 hours in — it's a good reset point for everyone.

Enjoy the Journey

The best road trips balance structure with spontaneity. Have a plan, but leave room to stop at that roadside lookout or small-town diner you didn't know about. Preparation gives you the freedom to say yes to the unexpected.