These essential things to do before leaving on a road trip will ensure your journey is less stressful, successful, and enjoyable.
Setting out on a long road trip can be so much more than just driving from point A to point B. It can be an opportunity for exploration, adventure, and the chance to create lasting memories.
But before you can have that perfect road trip, you need to do a bit of planning and preparing, not only for the trip itself but for things at home as well.
From creating the itinerary to packing road trip essentials to making sure your car, house, and personal well-being are ready for the long trip, every detail plays an important role in shaping your adventure.
Below are 47 things you should do before leaving on your next adventure, ensuring a smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable journey from start to finish.
Printable Road Trip Checklist
No time to read right now? I totally get it! Download a PDF of the pre-travel checklist so you don’t forget anything before your next road trip.
How To Plan Your Road Trip
Creating a well-thought-out plan is the foundation of a successful road trip and will help you make the most of your time on the open road. Here are some tips on how to plan your road trip.
1. Make a plan
The first you’ll want to do before almost anything else is to plan out your road trip. Everyone is going to do this a little differently, but the main thing is to have some sort of itinerary even if it’s a basic one.
I like to start by researching what I want to see along the route and then begin crafting a day-by-day itinerary from there. While you are doing this, allow yourself plenty of time to visit each of the attractions you wish to see. You don’t want to feel rushed!
Be sure to set a comfortable pace for everyone, but also leave room for spontaneity in case you see an interesting detour or a hidden gem along the way. Sometimes those things end up being the most memorable!
Do you tend to feel a little overwhelmed with the whole planning phase of a road trip? I can help with that!
If you like to do the planning yourself but need a little guidance on what to research and how to keep track of it all, I’ve got a 35-page Road Trip Planning Workbook that will help you research, plan, execute, and document your entire adventure!
If you’d rather have someone else do the planning for you, I offer Personal Travel Planning services as well! No matter if you want a little help or have everything done for you, I’ve got an option that will work for your vacation.
2. Create a budget
I am such an advocate for creating a budget for every vacation, from a small weekend excursion to a cross-country road trip. It’s important to know what you can afford so you don’t spend more than you should and be stressed about it when you return.
Everyone’s budget might be slightly different depending on your particular trip, but some of the categories you should have include accommodations, gas, food, tours and attractions, and emergencies.
Having a budget ensures you have an enjoyable trip without worrying about being able to afford it when you get home.
3. Book hotels ahead of time
I highly recommend reserving your accommodations in advance so you always know you have a comfortable place to rest after a day of driving or exploring. Nothing can turn your travel plans around faster than not being able to find a place to stay after a long day in the car.
Whether you want to stay in hotels, apartments, or campgrounds, you should book your lodging as soon as you have your plans in place.
pro tip:
Try to book places that have free cancellation. That way, even if your plans aren’t set in stone yet, you have the peace of mind that you have somewhere to stay. Then if things get shifted around later on, you can cancel and get a full refund.
4. Buy attraction tickets
For popular attractions, events, or activities, consider booking tickets ahead of time.
Not only will this ensure you won’t miss out on your must-see sights and activities, but it also allows you get get into the attraction quicker since you don’t have to wait in line for tickets.
Sometimes, tickets will also be cheaper if you buy ahead of time, so it could save you a bit of money as well.
The only time I suggest NOT purchasing tickets in advance is if you aren’t 100% sure you want to visit the attraction or if you don’t know what day you’ll be going. Most tickets are non-refundable, so only buy them if you definitely plan to visit.
5. Book your rental car
If you’re not using your own vehicle for your family road trip, you will want to book your rental car in advance.
Consider the type of car that’s going to suit your journey. How many seats do you need? How much luggage will you have? Do you need high clearance or 4WD? How many miles will you be driving?
I use Discover Cars when I need to rent a vehicle. They have great 24/7 customer service, search over 500 companies for the best prices, and you always get free cancellation in case your plans change.
6. Create packing lists
Make your packing process easier by developing detailed lists of everything you’ll need to take with you for your next trip.
Categorize items for the car, including essentials like a roadside emergency kit with a spare tire and a jack, as well as paper maps and navigation tools.
Create a separate packing list for food, including non-perishable snacks and water bottles along with any meals or perishable food you plan to keep in your cooler.
You’ll also want to create a separate packing checklist for clothing and personal items so nothing essential is left behind. You don’t want to have to spend money on something because you forgot to bring it along!
For the ultimate road trip packing list for every kind of adventure, check out this post.
How To Prepare Your Car For A Road Trip
Before heading out on your journey, it’s important to know that your vehicle is ready for longer road trips. Whether you have a newer car or one with high mileage, you shouldn’t assume there is nothing that needs to be taken care of.
Here are a few of the best things to do to prepare your car for long drives.
7. Have your car checked over by a mechanic
When preparing your car for a road trip, it’s important to prioritize safety by having your vehicle thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic.
The auto repair shop should ensure all essential systems, from brakes to fluids, are in optimal condition. This could include checking the tire pressure and tire treads, getting an oil change, topping off the windshield wiper fluid, checking the brakes and brake fluid, testing the car battery, and also making sure the air conditioner and heat work.
Addressing potential issues before hitting the road minimizes the risk of breakdowns and increases the overall reliability of the vehicle.
8. Have insurance, inspection, and registration information
Before road tripping, confirm that your car’s insurance, inspection, and registration are up-to-date.
Keep physical copies of these documents in your glove compartment and consider having digital backups for added convenience during any unforeseen circumstances. I also like to have a copy of my driver’s license in case I would lose it on the trip.
9. Clean out vehicle
Another travel tip is to start your vacation with a fresh and organized vehicle.
I’m one of those people who hates having clutter of any kind, especially in my car, so I try to do this regularly, but sometimes life happens and things get a bit messy. Therefore, I like to make sure that before I leave for vacation, I take a few minutes to declutter and clean the interior.
I find that having a clean and organized car makes long car trips easier because I can find what I’m looking for and it makes me want to keep the chaos to a minimum since the vehicle is already in nice shape.
10. Have a roadside emergency kit
Anytime you head out on a road trip, it’s important to equip your car with a comprehensive roadside emergency kit to handle unforeseen situations. No one expects to have car trouble or for things to go wrong, but when they do, you want to have the items needed to take care of it.
Include road trip necessities such as an air compressor, jumper cables or a battery jumper, a spare tire and jack, a first aid kit, and an atlas or paper map in case you lose cell phone reception.
11. Fill up the gas tank before you leave
I always like to start my road trip with a full tank of gas.
This simple proactive measure allows me to have a smooth start and it’s one less thing to think about right away. I tend to fill up the night before a trip so I can just get up and go.
12. Consider roadside assistance
I highly recommend subscribing to a reputable roadside assistance service, such as AAA.
Even if you have an emergency kit, when things happen like flat tires or your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, it’s sometimes just easier and less stressful to be able to call someone and have them take care of it for you.
Research and choose a company and plan that aligns with your travel needs and that gives an extra layer of security to your road trip adventure.
How To Pack For Your Road Trip
Knowing what to bring, how to organize it, and other packing knowledge can make the difference between a smooth journey and a difficult one.
Here are a few of the best tips to make packing for your road trip easier.
13. Print out and gather travel documents
Begin your packing process by ensuring you have all the necessary travel documents. Print our reservations, itineraries, your road trip route, and any essential paperwork and create a comprehensive travel folder for easy reference throughout your road trip.
It’s also important to make copies of IDs and credit cards and store these copies separate from the originals, providing a backup in case of loss or theft.
14. Put luggage tags on all items
Label all your luggage with durable tags that have at the very least your name, phone numbers, and email address on them. You should also consider adding tags to strollers, pack-n-plays, or other large items you may be traveling with.
This simple yet effective measure helps identify your belongings easily in case they are lost or misplaced at airports or hotels. You never know when something might get left behind!
15. Consider soft-sided bags
If you have a choice when packing for your road trip, opt for soft-sided bags.
Soft-sided bags allow for better utilization of your car’s storage space because they can be molded to fit in many more places than hard-sided luggage can. It’s often a lot lighter too, which can be useful if you are flying to get to your destination.
16. Bring snacks and drinks
Keep hunger and thirst at bay by packing a variety of snacks and drinks for the journey. No one wants a hangry road trip buddy!
I always like to pack a reusable water bottle, granola bars, trail mix, bananas, and sometimes items like cheese and crackers. Having a selection of your favorite healthy treats on hand not only satisfies cravings but also reduces the need for frequent stops, making your road trip more efficient.
17. Have some cash with you
While many places accept credit cards these days, especially in the United States, it’s wise to carry some cash for unforeseen circumstances or locations with limited card acceptance.
Maybe you want to grab something from a rest stop vending machine, or you found a delicious-looking food truck that only accepts cash. You don’t want to have to skip these things because you didn’t swing by the ATM on your way out of town.
Having cash for tipping is also a good idea. There are often instances where you want to tip your driver, tour guide, or bartender, but you need to have some bills in your wallet in order to do this.
Just make a point to have some cash on you before you leave and you’ll be good to go for any of those instances.
pro tip:
I recommend getting a free Charles Schwab checking account for travel so you can take money out of any ATM in the world with no fees. I only use mine when I travel so I can keep a set amount of money in it.
18. Bring entertainment
A fun way to pass the time on a road trip is to pack plenty of entertainment options.
Whether it’s a playlist of your favorite songs, a selection of audiobooks you’ve been wanting to listen to, or a variety of travel games, having several entertainment choices keeps the mood upbeat during long stretches on the road.
My husband and I like to listen to podcasts together when we travel. We have a few of our favorites that we save for our road trips. Now that we have a kid, we probably won’t be able to keep that up for much longer, but when that time comes, I’m sure we’ll have something we will all listen to or do together instead.
19. Stay organized
Staying organized in the car helps maintain order and keeps the road trip running smoothly.
Use travel organizers for smaller items and pack strategically to access essentials easily. A well-organized car increases comfort and efficiency throughout your road trip.
20. Download helpful apps
Before heading out on the road, it’s a good idea to download helpful apps that can save you money, keep you organized, and make your travels easier overall.
There are probably thousands of travel apps out there, so I certainly can’t include them all, but find the ones that make sense for you and download them ahead of time.
Some of the ones I do recommend include Google Maps or Apple Maps for navigating, Gas Buddy and Upside for cheap gas, a budget tracking app like Mint or Splitwise to make sure you keep on top of your budget, AAA if you have it so you can request assistance, and apps for your airlines and hotels.
21. Pack a spare car key
This is a road trip tip that many people might not think about, but packing a spare car key can really save you in the unfortunate situation of locking yourself out of your vehicle.
Make sure you keep it in a secure location that’s separate from your main set, and preferably in a bag or wallet that will be with someone all the time. I’ve even seen magnetic key holders that you can attach under your car, but I can’t comment on whether or not these work well.
No matter what idea works best for you, packing a spare car key is good practice.
22. Put everything you can in the car the night before
I’ll admit I’m not the best at this, but you can make your departure quicker, easier, and less stressful by packing up the car the night before with everything you don’t need in the morning.
This could include your food and cooler, most of your clothing (I always pack a small overnight bag with my toiletries and a few changes of clothes that I can easily access), camping or outdoor gear, and anything else you possibly can.
Preparing Your Household Before Your Road Trip
As you get ready for your upcoming road trip, it’s not only about packing your bags and planning your route but also ensuring that your home is ready for your absence.
Here are a few steps that you can take to prepare your house before your road trip.
23. Put mail on hold
Temporarily halt your mail delivery while you are away so your mailbox doesn’t overflow during your absence (and also so packages don’t sit on your porch for everyone to see).
Not only could someone help themselves to your mail, but mail piling up is a clear signal that you aren’t home, which could lead to your house being targeted by burglars or other people up to no good.
If you don’t want to stop your mail through the post office, you could also ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail for you. I recommend having something scout your porch every couple of days anyway in case you get a package from FedEx or UPS that wouldn’t be held for you by the USPS.
24. Arrange for a house sitter and/or pet sitter
If applicable, arrange for a trusted house and/or pet sitter before your vacation.
Having someone look after your home and pets adds an extra layer of security and care. Be sure to provide clear instructions and emergency contact information so your sitter has everything they need to know written out clearly for them.
25. Notify credit card company and bank
Avoid any potential issues by notifying your credit card company and bank about your travel dates and destinations. This simple step prevents unexpected card freezes due to unfamiliar transactions and ensures continued access to your funds during your road trip.
While this isn’t always necessary anymore since cards have a lot more security these days, it definitely can’t hurt to put in a travel notice just in case anything suspicious comes up. You can often do this right on the banking app or on the website, so you probably don’t even have to place a phone call.
26. Notify security company
If you have a security system in place, inform your company about your upcoming travels. Provide them with your travel dates and emergency contacts, plus the names of anyone who may be accessing the home while you are away.
27. Set thermostat
One of the most important things to do before leaving on a road trip is to conserve energy and save money by adjusting your thermostat before leaving.
Set it to a temperature that minimizes energy consumption while still preventing extreme temperatures inside your home. In the winter, you don’t want to set your temperature too low that your pipes could freeze.
In the summer, if you live somewhere that gets really warm and you have central air, you might not want to turn it off completely to prevent condensation or any house plants from wilting.
And if you have one of those smart thermostats that you can adjust from your phone, even better! You can monitor the system from anywhere and have the house back to its regular temperature when you are on your way home.
28. Clean the house
Return to a welcoming home by tidying up before heading out on your road trip.
While you don’t have to deep clean everything, I find it so much more stressful to return to a house that needs upkeep than to just take an hour or two before I leave and do a quick cleaning of the common areas.
You’re already going to have a lot to do when you get back, so check this item off your to-do list ahead of time and you’ll be glad you did.
29. Take out the trash
Empty trash bins throughout your home before locking the door and hitting the road.
This simple task helps ensure a fresh and inviting home when you return from your road trip. No one wants to walk in the door and smell all the garbage that’s been sitting for a long time. That smell can linger even after it’s been taken out to the curb.
30. Pay bills
Another of the important things to do before leaving on a road trip is to make sure all the bills are paid.
Depending on how long you will be gone, you may not have anything that needs to be paid, but you should always review anything that could be due while you are away. If you can, you should set up automatic payments for things like credit cards and loans so that in case you get back late from your trip, you won’t be charged any fees for missing the due date.
31. Water plants
While you’re taking care of household and financial matters, it’s also important to extend that care to your indoor and outdoor plants.
Be sure to give them a thorough watering to help them thrive during your absence. If it’s hot out, consider placing indoor plants in a shaded area to minimize water loss. If you will have a housesitter, you can always delegate this chore to them too if you will be gone a long time.
32. Clean out fridge and pantry
Don’t forget to clean out your fridge and pantry before setting out on a road trip.
Dispose of any perishable items and secure non-perishables in tight containers. This step not only prevents unpleasant doors upon your return but also creates a fresh start for restocking when you arrive home.
Something I like to do a few days before leaving is to plan small, simple meals for the days leading up to our trip so we are less likely to have a lot of food to throw out because we didn’t eat the leftovers.
33. Unplug appliances
Save energy and reduce the risk of electrical issues by unplugging non-essential appliances.
Unplug devices such as chargers, electronics, televisions, and small kitchen appliances to prevent energy consumption during your road trip. You should also take out any nightlights, fragrance dispenses, or diffusers from the outlets to prevent overheating and fires.
When we travel, I only leave the chest freezer and refrigerator running. Everything else gets unplugged, even the microwave and internet. The only exception to this would be if you have someone staying at your home, in which case they probably will use the appliances, so you can skip this step.
34. Close blinds and curtains
To improve energy efficiency and home security while away, be sure to close all the blinds and curtains.
This may sound simple, but it helps maintain privacy, discourages any prying eyes, and helps to regulate indoor temperature. This is also something a lot of people forget to do, so put it on your checklist and make sure you go around the house and take care of it before you walk out the door.
35. Turn off lights and set up light timers
Conserve energy and create the illusion of an occupied home by turning off lights and/or setting up light timers.
Timed lighting simulates regular activity which can deter potential intruders and give your home a lived-in appearance while you are away. However, if you don’t have timers, make sure all the lights are turned off before you go.
36. Set the security system
If you have a security system, don’t forget to turn it on before you leave! You can notify the company of your absence, but if you don’t actually set the alarm, it won’t do much good.
37. Lock doors and windows
It’s also important to double-check that all windows and doors are locked before you leave on your road trip.
In addition to your main entry, be sure to inspect all other exterior doors, even the basement, and that every window can close and be locked. In fact, I’d even recommend doing an inspection a week or two ahead of time to see if any of the window or door locks need to be repaired.
38. Give a spare key to a neighbor
It’s also a good idea to entrust a neighbor with a spare key. Even if you have a housesitter, this provides a backup solution in case of emergencies and allows for quick access to your home if needed during your road trip.
If you don’t have any neighbors you trust, you should give a key to a friend or family member who would be willing to swing by if needed.
Taking Care Of Yourself Before A Road Trip
Before setting out on your road trip, don’t forget to take care of yourself! So often we can get caught up in all the to-dos for everything and everyone else, but we neglect to make sure we are physically and mentally ready for the vacation.
Here are a few tips to ensure your own physical and mental well-being, allowing you to set out on your road trip with energy and focus and be ready to fully enjoy the adventure ahead.
39. Get a good night’s sleep
Be sure to get a good night’s sleep before heading out on the road.
A good night’s rest will help with alertness and focus while driving so you stay safe on the road. If you are driving overnight, don’t skip a nap before leaving. You might not think you need it, but even a short nap can make a big difference.
40. Eat a good meal before leaving
It’s also important to make sure you eat a good meal before leaving.
A balanced breakfast or lunch will help stave off hunger during the initial part of your trip and save you from reaching for those snacks too early.
If you don’t want to make breakfast at home before leaving, pack something along you can eat in the car, or make a point to stop and grab a meal about an hour or so into your drive so you will have the energy to get you through the morning.
41. Fill prescriptions
If you take any medications, don’t forget to check that you have enough for the duration of your road trip. I’d even recommend making sure you have at least an extra week’s worth in case you have any unforeseen delays or issues.
42. Bring comfort items for the ride
Make your road trip more comfortable by packing items such as a blanket and pillow for any naps, and consider seat cushions for added support during long hours of driving. These items will help ensure your journey is comfortable, especially for extended road trips.
How to Prepare For A Road Trip Alone
Are you planning to take a solo road trip? Good for you! Travel of any kind by yourself can be an exciting and liberating adventure, but it comes with a unique set of considerations for personal safety and well-being.
I’ve done a lot of solo travel, including multi-day road trips and overseas travel, and I think everyone should do it at least once. It really makes you learn to rely on your own instincts, and it allows you to make all the plans. You get to do anything you want!
Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable solo journey.
43. Check in with someone every day
Establish a daily check-in routine with a friend or family member. This regular communication not only provides reassurance to your loved ones but also makes sure someone is aware of your well-being throughout your solo road trip.
You might not think this is necessary, but don’t just do this for yourself – do it for your family. I know that when my husband would be away for several days for work, I’d love to get even just a quick text from him daily so I knew he was good. I try to extend the same courtesy when I’m on the road.
44. Give your itinerary to a friend or family member
In addition to checking in with someone, it’s a good idea to give your itinerary to a friend or family member before embarking on your solo road trip.
This allows someone to have a general idea of your route and expected arrival times and enables them to assist in case of any unforeseen circumstances. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
45. Don’t drive at night
Opt for daytime driving when you are alone as the daylight provides better visibility and reduces the risk of fatigue-related accidents. When you don’t have a travel buddy, you’re the only driver, so you need to be alert the entire journey.
There are also more facilities open during the day, and if you are a female, you might not feel comfortable stopping at rest areas and truck stops in the middle of the night. Driving during the day is both safer and more convenient when you are a solo traveler.
46. Rest often
Another way to stay alert and combat fatigue is by incorporating regular rest breaks into your road trip.
Be sure to stop at least every 2 hours to stretch your legs, hydrate, and refresh your mind. My personal routine is to alternate stopping at a rest stop for a quick 10-15 break and then the next stop at a restaurant or gas station for a longer rest, food, and gas. Pick a schedule that works for you, but don’t skip breaks.
47. Don’t post on social until you are home
It’s a good idea to delay posting updates on social media until you’ve safely returned from your road trip, especially if you are traveling by yourself.
By not sharing your exact location and activities until after you return, you add an extra layer of security and privacy during your solo road trip.
I also think this is important anytime you travel because showing up-to-date travel statuses means people know you aren’t at home, and this could leave your home vulnerable.
Conclusion: Things To Do Before Leaving On A Road Trip
Embarking on a road trip is an exciting adventure, and by taking the time to properly prepare, you set the stage for a journey filled with joy and discovery. Each step, from planning your route to ensuring your car and house are ready for your road trip, contributes to an enjoyable adventure. Remember to prioritize self-care as well, ensuring that you are physically and mentally ready to experience everything that your road trip will bring.
As you lock the door behind you, embrace the open road with excitement, knowing that the careful preparations made beforehand will pave the way for a road trip filled with unforgettable moments.
