Get your car ready for a long road trip

As we enter 2024, road trip planning has already begun and is still a pretty popular vacation option. The desire to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find solace in the beauty of nature drives people to the road.

With ticket prices higher than ever, road trips have become even more appealing. The season of concerts, sporting events, and festivals is back, and highways are filled with the sound of car horns and the thrill of adventure. Road trips are here to stay, and according to recent data from Apple Maps, people are requesting road trips more than ever before. The difference is, that people are not using GPS to go to cities, but instead to make a turn towards open roads, mountains, lakes, and beaches.

Road trips provide a break from the daily grind, an opportunity to get away from the world and reconnect with nature, and the destinations are as varied as the landscapes.

Our destinations are as varied as our landscapes. Malaysia has several quaint towns with hidden treasures and breathtaking vistas. Here you’ll have the chance to discover amazing roadside attractions, enjoy sample local cuisine, and share stories with fellow travelers along the way.

What if something comes in the way of such a fun & relaxing journey, you can imagine how frustrating it will be. One such scenario is your car breaking down hundreds of kilometers away from home. The difference between a good trip and a bad one often comes down to whether or not you prepared your car for that long journey.

So, as you head out on the road, remember that the joy of travel – the freedom of open road – remains the same. In an ever-changing world, the journey remains the same. So buckle up, plan carefully, and go forth with the confidence that you’ll be able to create lasting memories.

Before you hit the road, there are a few things you can do to ensure the safety of your vehicle, your journey, and your loved ones.

First, ensure that you provide your trip itinerary to a reliable source, it can be a friend or a relative. Now you can get to work and prepare your car for the journey.

Preparing your car for a long trip is essential to ensure a safe and smooth journey. Here are some steps you can take to get your car ready.

Get your car road trip ready -

Check Fluid Levels

• Engine oil: Ensure it's at the recommended level.
  Transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant: Check and top off if necessary.

Inspect Tyres

• Check tyre pressure, including the spare tyre. Refer to the vehicle owner's manual for the recommended pressure.
• Inspect the tread depth and look for any signs of uneven wear or damage.
• Consider rotating the tyres if needed.

Brake Inspection

• Check the brake pads and discs for wear.
  Ensure the brake fluid is at the proper level.

Battery Check

• Inspect the battery for corrosion and secure connections
• If the battery is old, consider having it tested or replaced.

Lights and Signals

• Test all exterior lights, including headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and emergency flashers

Windshield Wipers and Fluid

• Replace worn-out wiper blades.
• Ensure the windshield washer fluid reservoir is filled.

Belts and Hoses

• Check for any visible signs of wear or damage on the belts and hoses

Air Filter

• If the air filter is dirty, consider replacing it for improved fuel efficiency.

Cooling System

• Ensure the radiator and coolant hoses are in good condition
• Check the radiator coolant level and top off if necessary

Pack an Emergency Kit

• Include items like a first aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, basic tools, tire pressure gauge, and necessary fluids (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid)
  

Check the Spare Tyre

• Make sure the spare tire is in good condition, and you have the necessary tools to change a flat tyre

Fuel Up

• Start your trip with a full tank of gas.

GPS and Maps

• Ensure your navigation system or GPS is working properly. Consider having a paper map as a backup.

Car Documents

• Carry your driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance information.

Comfort Items

• Pack essentials like snacks, water, and any items you might need for a comfortable journey.

Check for Recalls

• Ensure your vehicle is not subject to any open recalls. Check with the manufacturer if needed

Luggage Arrangement

• Don't put luggage over your car, as it'll create air friction and slow you down, burning more gas
• If you must, cover your luggage with a thick sheet and tie it very tightly

Miscellaneous

• Put a protective sheet over your headlights and the front of your car to prevent bugs and other damage
• Make sure you have an extra pair of car belts
• Change your spark plug
• Pack a fire extinguisher
• Bring towels to clean dirty windshields and spills
• Carry spare keys
• Don't forget to download your podcast (you might lose service), update your music library, and make sure you have all the necessary cables; car charger, phone charger, auxiliary cable, USB cable, camera charger, etc.
• Do not forget to carry necessary accessories like a car charger for your smartphone, UBB cable, camera charger, etc
• Plastic funnel to add water and other fluids

Once you have checked all the above-mentioned boxes, it is time for one final check for the following components.

Final checkpoints -

• Tyre: overall condition, look for signs of tread damage, pressure
• Wiper & wiper fluid: good wiper condition, and a full fluid reservoir
• Coolant
• Horn and fuses
• Oil, power steering, and brake fluid
• High and low-beam headlights
• Loose cables heater and air conditioner
• Flush radiator

Once your car is in tip-top shape, let's take a look at some simple yet effective driving tips. Keep in mind that you are more than just the passenger in your vehicle. Your alertness and level of engagement are just as important. Here are a few simple tips to help you make the most of your trip.

Tips for a fun & relaxed road trip -

Stay engaged

 Don't underestimate the importance of conversation. Conversation with the driver will help keep you awake, motivated, and engaged during long stretches of driving.

Know your limits

 Schedule your trip based on your comfort level. Whether you're a five-time champ who can cover 500 miles a day or prefer a slower pace, plan your journey based on your level of endurance.

Take it easy on speed

Slow down and take it easy on speed. You'll save on fuel and you'll have more chances to enjoy scenic routes, beautiful mountain views, winding roads, and more.

Rest when you need it

Don't drink too many energy drinks or overindulge in caffeine. If you're feeling tired, take a break of 30 minutes or two. It'll help keep you alert and keep you safe.

Beat boredom

 Take advantage of the less scenic parts of your journey. Listen to your favorite podcast, listen to some upbeat music, watch some stand-up comedy, or listen to an interesting audiobook.

Mind Truck Etiquette

 Give trucks some space on the open road. Tailgating on the road can make truck drivers nervous and distracted. Keep a safe distance behind you and you won’t be a worry to them.

Keep these tips in mind as you prepare for your next road trip. With a well-prepared car and a mindful attitude, you’ll be ready to hit the road with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

Not only will you survive a long trip, but you’ll also enjoy it!

Also Ready: Cruise Control: A comprehensive guide; meaning, pros & cons, usage, troubleshooting