The Ultimate Road Trip Checklist: Preparing Your Car for Long Drives

Alternative Automotive • July 30, 2024

Planning a road trip? 

Whether you’re heading to the mountains, the beach, or a scenic countryside, ensuring your car is in top shape is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here at Alternative Automotive, we’ve put together the ultimate road trip checklist to help you prepare your car for those long drives. Let’s dive in!

1. Check Your Tires

Inspect tire pressure, tread depth, and condition. Don’t forget the spare tire.

2. Change Your Oil

Fresh oil keeps your engine running smoothly.

3. Inspect the Brakes

Check brake pads and fluid levels for safety.

Road Trip Guide Blog at Alternative Automotive in Winfield, Mo

4. Test the Battery

Ensure the battery is fully charged and terminals are clean. 

5. Top Off Fluids

Check coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. 

6. Examine Belts and Hoses

Look for wear, cracks, or leaks in belts and hoses. 

7. Ensure Lights and Signals Work

Test all lights and signals, and replace any burnt-out bulbs. 

8. Pack an Emergency Kit

Include a first aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, tire jack, spare tire, water, snacks, and tools.

9. Plan Your Route

Use GPS or map out your journey, noting rest stops and gas stations.

10. Get a Professional Inspection

Consider a full vehicle inspection before your trip.

Road Trip Guide Blog at Alternative Automotive in Winfield, Mo

Conclusion

Prepare your car for a smooth road trip with these tips. At Alternative Automotive, we’re here to help with all your car maintenance needs. Schedule an appointment today and travel with peace of mind!

Safe travels from Alternative Automotive!

Santa Claus in red car, waving, wearing sunglasses.
By Alternative Automotive December 17, 2025
December driving in Missouri brings frost, road trips, and winter hazards. Get simple tips to keep your car safe, reliable, and road-ready all month long.
The crew at Altenative Automotive
By Alternative Automotive December 2, 2025
As the year winds down and the holiday lights start popping up around Winfield, we can’t help but feel incredibly grateful.
Document titled
By Alternative Automotive November 17, 2025
What does a powertrain warranty really cover? It's less than you think. Find out the truth about your engine, transmission, and drivetrain coverage before you need a repair.
White SUV parked on a leaf-covered path in a forest with autumn foliage.
By Alternative Automotive November 6, 2025
Experience the best of Missouri in fall! Scenic drives, state parks, and colorful foliage—get your car ready for the ultimate autumn adventure.
Car insurance form with a toy car, cash, and a pen on a table.
By Alternative Automotive October 14, 2025
Car insurance is designed to help when the unexpected happens.
A Dummy’s Guide to Jumpstarting Your Car (Without Looking Like One) blog
By Alternative Automotive October 1, 2025
We’ve all been there: you hop in the car, turn the key, and click… nothing. Your battery’s dead. But don’t panic (and definitely don’t call your cousin who “knows cars” but once put diesel in a gas tank). Here’s the simple, funny-but-true guide to jumpstarting your car—so you look like a pro, not a dummy.
Two women in a truck bed, waving foam fingers, cheering at a tailgate party. Red and white theme.
By Alternative Automotive September 17, 2025
Fall in Missouri means one thing—football season.
Road through trees with red and orange autumn foliage. Wet asphalt with fallen leaves.
By Alternative Automotive September 4, 2025
Driving on Missouri’s scenic fall roads? Wet leaves can be as dangerous as black ice—hiding potholes, reducing traction, and even causing car damage. Learn how to stay safe and protect your vehicle this autumn.
Brakes
By Alternative Automotive August 20, 2025
At Alternative Automotive, we’re all about helping you get the most out of your vehicle, and that starts with staying on top of the essentials.
Person's hand wearing an oven mitt on a car steering wheel; orange mitt, black wheel.
By Alternative Automotive August 5, 2025
We know the heat is rough, but car trouble during a heat wave is worse. Swing by Alternative Automotive and we’ll make sure your vehicle is ready to handle this Missouri summer like a pro.
More Posts