Check all fluid levels in your car, including oil, transmission fluid, coolant, antifreeze and windshield-washer solvent. Top off if the levels are low to ensure you do not run out while driving. Also make sure none of the hoses or belts are damaged with cracks or holes. If these items are damaged, replace immediately. Make sure the air conditioner and heater work so you do not have to have these fixed while on vacation. If you are not mechanically inclined, take your car to a local mechanic to check the car for any issues and to fill all fluids.
Walk around your car and check for anything that is out of place or damaged and needs to be replaced. Check your tires for pressure, that the treads are still good and there is no uneven wear on them. Turn on and off your headlights and break lights to make sure all lights on the car are completely functional. Check wipers and replace if worn and give the horn a quick honk to make sure it works. If any of these items need to be replaced, do so yourself or take your vehicle to a local mechanic to replace before your trip.
Make sure everything you need is in your car in case of a wreck or roadside emergency. Your trunk should have a spare tire, jack with lug nut wrench, tire sealer and inflator, jumper cables and flares. Having these items in your trunk will eliminate the need to call a tow truck or roadside assistance service. Include an emergency kit in your car in case of a wreck or you run out of gas. Items to include in the emergency kit are a blanket, flashlights, extra medications, first aid kit and some food and water.
There is more to having a safe road trip than just checking your car; your personal safety needs to be considered when traveling. Do not advertise where you are going or what you are doing to everyone or on social-media websites. This will protect your home from being burglarized while away and you personally while traveling. Know where you are going, check maps and get directions before you hit the road. Not knowing where you are going can make you look like an outsider who can be a target for criminal activities. Stop at truck and travel centers that have 24-hour security when stopping in the late evening or early morning hours.
