Ready to ride? Get started with a summer checklist for a road trip

Sunglasses. Check. Phone. Check. Awesome new hat. Check. It’s time for a summer road trip. Before you take off, make sure you and your car are ready for a safe and fun adventure. Start with these checklists for a road trip to help avoid unpleasant surprises during your summer getaway.

Prepare the getaway car

Road trips are meant to be epic. That might include driving super long distances. Make sure your car is ready to go the distance. Check all major systems and complete any necessary repairs before you leave the driveway.

Needing an emergency car repair will make your vacation memorable in all the wrong ways, so plan ahead. At least 3-5 days before your departure, give your car an inspection.

• Do your wipers work?
• Is your wiper fluid full?
• Are your tires properly inflated?
• Do your turn signals, brake lights, and headlights all work?
• Is your air filter good?
• Does your oil need to be changed?
• Does your car have any leaks (oil or brake fluid)?

If necessary, take your car to a local repair shop you trust before heading out of town.

Stay safe on the road

Safety on the road is everyone’s responsibility. Follow these tips to help keep yourself, your passengers, and fellow travelers safe.

While some of these are common sense, you should keep them in mind—especially if you aren’t used to driving long distances or driving in areas that are unfamiliar. The rules of the road will remain the same, but local customs, and the strictness of local authorities, may vary.

• Plan your route. Knowing exactly where you are going is important, especially in the case of GPS outages. There are still plenty of areas with weak or non-existent phone signals.
• Keep your tank full. It’s a terrible idea to wait until you are almost empty to get gas. You don’t know when you will pass the next station.
• Have emergency supplies. Jumper cables, a flashlight, and a small tool kit are all good items to have ready in case of an emergency.
• Check the weather. Make sure you are not driving toward severe or dangerous weather.
• Plan your play list or entertainment. Don’t let yourself be distracted by the radio or your phone while driving.
• Bring water and snacks. Have extras in the car in case of emergency.
• Make sure your driver’s license and registration are up to date. Double check that these items are valid and readily accessible before you leave.
• Don’t forget auto insurance. Because accidents happen, every driver should have auto insurance. Check that your insurance coverage is valid and that your proof of coverage is in your car or on your phone. You need to have car insurance policy numbers and contact numbers readily available.

TruStage™ offers a variety of auto insurance options. One may be right for you. Learn more about the types of insurance here.