How to Prepare for a Road Trip: Essential Pre-Trip Checks

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road—windows down, music on, and the excitement of a new destination ahead. But before you pack the snacks and load the GPS, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is just as ready for the journey as you are.

At Darrah’s Towing & Recovery, we’ve helped countless drivers who thought they were prepared, only to discover a hidden issue mid-trip. Road trips put more strain on a vehicle than short commutes. A few simple pre-trip checks can mean the difference between a smooth adventure and an unexpected roadside emergency.

This guide covers everything you should check before your next road trip, along with advice on what to do if something fails along the way.

Why Pre-Trip Checks Matter

• Safety: Faulty brakes, bald tires, or dim headlights can increase your risk of an accident.

• Cost Savings: Preventative maintenance is always cheaper than emergency repairs.

• Peace of Mind: When you know your vehicle is in top shape, you can focus on enjoying the journey.

• Reliability: The last thing you want is a breakdown hours away from home.

Road trips are supposed to be fun—not stressful. Taking the time to prepare will ensure your car (and your passengers) are ready for the miles ahead.

Essential Pre-Trip Checklist

1. Check All Vehicle Fluids

Your car relies on several different fluids to operate smoothly. Before you leave, check:

• Engine Oil: Pull the dipstick and make sure the level is adequate and the oil isn’t dirty. If you’re close to needing an oil change, it’s best to get it done before you leave.

• Coolant/Antifreeze: Crucial for preventing overheating. Inspect both levels and condition.

• Brake Fluid: Low fluid can indicate worn brake pads or a leak.

• Transmission Fluid: Especially important if you’re towing a trailer.

• Windshield Washer Fluid: Often overlooked, but vital for visibility during long trips.

👉 Pro Tip: Carry small bottles of top-up fluids in your trunk for emergencies.

2. Inspect Tires and Spare

Your tires are your only contact with the road. Worn or underinflated tires are a leading cause of blowouts and accidents.

• Tire Pressure: Check all four tires and the spare. Use the manufacturer’s recommended PSI, found on the driver’s door sticker.

• Tread Depth: The “penny test” works—insert a penny upside down in the tread. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires.

• Spare Tire: Make sure it’s inflated and the jack and tools are in good condition.

• Rotation/Alignment: If you’re close to needing either, get it done before the trip.

👉 Pro Tip: Don’t overload your vehicle, as excess weight can strain your tires.

3. Test Lights and Signals

Visibility is key, both for seeing and being seen.

• Headlights: Check both high and low beams.

• Brake Lights: Have someone stand behind the car while you press the brake pedal.

• Turn Signals and Hazards: Ensure all bulbs are working.

• Interior Lights: Useful if you’re traveling at night.

👉 Pro Tip: Carry a small pack of replacement bulbs and fuses. They’re inexpensive and can save you from trouble on the road.

4. Inspect Brakes

Brakes are your most important safety system. Before heading out:

• Listen for squeaks or grinding—a sign pads may be worn.

• Check if the vehicle pulls to one side when braking—could indicate uneven wear.

• Feel for vibrations in the pedal—this may signal warped rotors.

If anything feels off, have your brakes inspected immediately.

5. Examine Belts and Hoses

Open the hood and inspect:

• Belts: Look for cracks, fraying, or glazing.

• Hoses: Check for leaks, bulges, or loose clamps.

A snapped belt or blown hose on the road can bring your trip to a halt.

6. Stock an Emergency Kit

Even the best-maintained vehicles can run into problems. Prepare a kit with:

• Jumper cables or a portable jump starter

• Flashlight with extra batteries

• First-aid kit

• Tire inflator or sealant

• Reflective triangles or flares

• Blanket, water, and snacks

• Phone charger (car adapter or battery pack)

👉 Pro Tip: Keep the kit in an easy-to-reach spot, not buried under luggage.

7. Test the Battery

A weak battery may be fine for short trips around town but fail on a long road trip.

• Check terminals for corrosion.

• Test voltage at a repair shop or with a multimeter.

• Replace if necessary—batteries typically last 3–5 years.

8. Review Wipers and Windows

• Replace worn wiper blades.

• Clean the windshield inside and out.

• Check defrosters and air conditioning to ensure clear visibility in all conditions.

9. Plan for Navigation

Technology isn’t perfect—cell service can fail.

• Update your GPS.

• Carry a physical map as backup.

• Share your travel route with a friend or family member.

What to Do if Something Fails on the Road

Even with preparation, things can go wrong. Here’s how to handle it safely:

Flat Tire

• Pull over to a safe location, away from traffic.

• Use hazard lights and reflective triangles.

• If you’re comfortable, change the tire with your spare. If not, call a roadside professional.

Dead Battery

• Use jumper cables or a portable jump starter.

• If that fails, contact a towing company for assistance.

Overheating

• Pull over immediately.

• Do not open the radiator cap while hot.

• Wait for the engine to cool, then add coolant if available.

• If overheating continues, you’ll need towing.

Engine Failure

• Coast safely to the side of the road.

• Turn on hazards.

• Contact a professional towing service like Darrah’s.

Accident

• Check for injuries and call 911 if needed.

• Move vehicles to a safe spot if possible.

• Contact your insurance provider and towing service.

Real Customer Testimony

"Last summer, my family and I were heading out on a road trip to Colorado. About two hours in, our SUV suddenly started overheating. We had checked the basics before leaving, but apparently the radiator hose had a hidden crack. We called Darrah’s Towing & Recovery, and within 40 minutes, a truck arrived. The driver was incredibly professional—he even explained what had gone wrong in terms I could understand. He towed us to a nearby shop, and thanks to their quick response, we were able to get repairs the same day and continue our trip. Without Darrah’s, our vacation would have ended before it really began."— Brian H., Marion, IA

This story shows why preparation matters—and why having a trusted towing company on speed dial is essential.

Why Experience Matters

At Darrah’s Towing & Recovery, we know that road trips should be about adventure, not stress. Our decades of experience in Eastern Iowa give us the expertise to:

• Respond 24/7 to roadside emergencies.

• Provide both light and heavy-duty towing.

• Offer reliable roadside assistance—from jump starts to tire changes.

• Treat every customer with professionalism and care.

When something goes wrong, experience is what gets you back on the road faster and safer.

Final Thoughts

A road trip should be memorable for the right reasons. By taking time to check your fluids, tires, lights, brakes, and emergency kit, you reduce the risk of breakdowns and increase peace of mind. Still, unexpected problems can arise. That’s why knowing what to do—and who to call—is just as important as the checklist itself.

The open road is waiting. Prepare well, travel smart, and remember: if you ever need help, Darrah’s Towing & Recovery is just a call away.

Call to Action

📞 Call Darrah’s Towing & Recovery at 319-363-7900 or visit darrahstowing.com before your next road trip. Save our number in your phone—you’ll thank yourself if the unexpected happens.

We’re here 24/7 to make sure your trip is safe, stress-free, and unforgettable.