Car Parts to Check: * Windshield wipers - Make sure the wipers aren’t cracked or dried out and that they fully push water off your windshield. * Tire pressure - Fill the tires to the recommended PSI. Check your owner’s manual if you aren’t sure about the right pressure. Remember to check your spare too. * Tire tread - Hold a penny in your tire tread to see if they’re worn-out. If you can see below Abe Lincoln’s forehead, the tires need replacing before you leave. * Brake pads - Don’t travel with worn-out brakes. Have your mechanic replace your brake pads if they’re old. * Headlights, turn signals, tail lights, and brake lights - Confirm that all of these light up the way they’re supposed to. * Belts - Pop the hood and look at the condition of all the belts. If any look cracked or dried-out, replace them before leaving. They should also be taut and spring back after you press them a bit. * Air filter - Open the box near your intake. The filter should be white and clear of debris. * Oil and fluids - Check your engine oil, wiper fluid, coolant, transmission fluid, antifreeze, and brake fluid. If any levels are low, top them off before leaving. * Battery - Car batteries normally last 3-5 years. If yours is getting old or you’ve had trouble starting your car, get a new one before leaving. * Battery terminals - Scrub them with baking soda and water to get rid of corrosion. This can prevent dead batteries on your trip. * Air conditioning and heat - No one wants to go on a long road trip with AC or heat, depending on the weather. If either of these are giving you trouble, get them fixed. Things to Pack * Map and GPS - Have one of each, just in case your electronics fail. * Snacks and water - Bring a cooler to keep everything fresh and cold. * Vehicle papers - Make sure you have your vehicle registration and proof of insurance. These are important if you get pulled over or have a fender bender. * Emergency kit - On a long trip, have at least a jack, wrench, flares, and jumper cables so you can make simple fixes on the road. Also have blankets, water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit. **If you’re going on a long trip, it’s always a good idea to have a mechanic give your car a safety check. They can catch any issues that you might have missed. Do this at least a few days before you leave so there’s time to get any repairs done.