Taking a road trip is exciting — but before you hit the highway, a bit of prep work can make the difference between a smooth, safe journey and an unexpected breakdown or stress. Based on advice from Mercury Insurance, here’s a comprehensive pre-trip checklist and guide to help you travel smarter.
✅ What to Do Before You Leave
• 📋 Perform a full vehicle safety and maintenance check
- Inspect your brakes for signs of wear or damage. Mercury recommends checking brakes well in advance of a long drive.
- Monitor your engine oil level and check how many miles you’ve driven since your last oil change — many older or high-mileage vehicles may need maintenance sooner.
- If you drive an electric vehicle (EV), make sure it’s fully charged before departure and map out charging-station stops along your route.
• 🧰 Pack an emergency and roadside-assistance kit
Mercury suggests having a well-stocked car kit before you head out. Essentials include: jumper cables; roadside flares; a quart of motor oil and a gallon of coolant; a first-aid kit; blankets; water and non-perishable food; flashlight and basic tools; a spare tire, jack and lug wrench.
This can save you a lot of stress (and money) if something goes wrong far from home.
• 🔒 Secure your home if you’re leaving on a multi-day trip
Before departing, make sure to lock all doors and windows, and consider activating an alarm system if you have one — so you’re not worrying about home security while you travel.
🛣️ On the Road: Safe Trip Habits & Trip Planning Tips
Even with a well-maintained car and pre-trip prep, safe driving habits and planning matter tremendously for a good road-trip experience. Here are some of the top recommendations:
- Plan your route ahead of time — know where you’ll stop, where to refuel or recharge (for EVs), and take note of rest/stay points.
- Try to avoid driving long hours non-stop; take breaks regularly. Fatigue is a leading factor in accidents.
- If traveling with family or pets, make sure everyone is secured (seat belts, child-appropriate seats, pet carriers, etc.).
- Keep visibility and vehicle systems in check — make sure lights, signals, brakes, tires are all in good working order.
🔍 Why All This Matters — The Risk of Skipping Pre-Trip Prep
According to Mercury Insurance, many breakdowns, accidents, and road-trip mishaps are preventable with a little bit of preparation. A faulty brake, under-inflated tire, or worn fluid can turn a fun trip into an expensive problem.
Moreover, having a properly maintained vehicle — and a stocked emergency kit — helps reduce the stress if something goes wrong, especially when traveling through remote areas or far from help.
🧭 Your Pre-Trip Road-Trip Checklist (Copy & Use!)
- Check brakes, oil level, coolant, and tires
- Ensure EVs are charged and plan charging stops (if applicable)
- Stock emergency kit (jumper cables, coolant/oil, first-aid, water, blankets, tools, spare tire)
- Double-check lights, signals, windshield wipers, etc.
- Secure your home (lock doors/windows, alarm, inform someone if away for several days)
- Plan your route — fuel/charging stops, rest breaks, overnight stays
- Review passengers/pets safety (seat belts, carriers, supplies)
- Pack snacks, water, and backup supplies (phone charger, maps if no signal)
🏁 Final Thoughts — Better Safe, Smarter Road Trips
A road trip should be fun — but a little preparation can ensure it stays that way. Whether you’re going a few hours away or across states, treating your vehicle and travel plan with respect adds peace of mind.
As Mercury Insurance puts it, “It’s better to find a problem in your driveway than on the side of the road.”
Stay safe, drive smart, and enjoy the ride.