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How to Prepare for a Long Drive with these 7 Simple Steps

By Jackie Gately
(First published )
(Reading Time: 7 minutes)
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If you need to know how to prepare for a long drive, you’ll love these 7 simple steps.

Road trips can be amazing, but only if you know how to prepare for one.

So, look to the tips below to find out how you can easily set your self up for a wonderful experience on a long drive.

Then, you’ll be ready to hit the road with confidence!

how to prepare for a long drive
How to Prepare for a Long Drive

CONTENTS – In this article, you will get answers to how to prepare for a long drive, including:

Simple Steps to Get Ready for a Long Drive

Taking a road trip can be a great way to see the country and explore new places.

But if you’re not properly prepared, it can also be a recipe for disaster.

From making sure your car is in good condition to packing snacks and entertainment for the journey, there are a few key things to do before setting out on a long road trip.

Here are some simple steps to help you get ready for your next adventure.

When you’re done reviewing the following information, you’ll have a much better idea of how to plan for a long drive.

1. Choose Your Destination and Plan Your Route for Your Long Road Trip

Before packing up the car and heading out on a long road trip, it’s important to choose the right destination and plan your route accordingly.

You may choose to take a long drive across the country. Or, perhaps you’ll cross international borders.

Taking a road trip to a different country can be an incredibly exciting, adventurous, and rewarding experience.

Not only can you explore a new culture, taste delicious native foods, and enjoy exotic locales.

You can also ship your own car so you don’t have to worry about renting a car for the journey. Just be sure to check out Easy Auto Ship reviews to check out the car shipping process.

By shipping your own car ahead of the trip, you won’t have the added hassle or expense of having to rent one while on vacation.

Plus, you get to soak in all the scenery along your route.

This gives you one-of-a-kind sights that could never be experienced from an airplane.

Whether you choose a bustling European city or a secluded mountain hideaway, choosing to take your car with you adds an extra level of comfort and flexibility.

Then, nothing stands between you and your international holiday dreams.

2. Make a Packing List of Items You Will Need For the Long Road Trip

There’s no better way to take in the sights and sounds of your journey than by taking a road trip.

Before starting, it is important to make sure you have all the items you will need for your long drive.

You should have a first-aid kit for emergencies, sunscreen for those extra sunny days, snacks to keep you going, and plenty of good tunes.

Also remember to bring some comfy clothes and other essentials such as toiletries and an extra phone charger.

You’d be surprised at how many people overlook this step. They learn how to prepare for a long drive the hard way.

With these things packed, you’ll be ready to set off on your grand adventure!

3. Get Your Vehicle Serviced and Check Fluid Levels, Brakes, and Tires Before Your Road Trip

As you can imagine, taking a road trip is an exciting and memorable experience.

However, it’s important to prepare your vehicle for the trip in advance.

It’s always wise to have your vehicle serviced before a long trip to check fluid levels, brakes, and tires, among other items.

Doing so can greatly increase the safety of the journey both on and off the highway, particularly if you’re going to be driving in more remote areas.

Furthermore, getting your vehicle serviced will help you quickly identify any issues that could lead to repairs being needed down the line during or after the trip.

So before you set out on your next road trip, make sure you get your vehicle serviced for an optimal journey of enjoyment and safety!

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4. Fill-Up Your Gas Tank and Pack Snacks and Drinks for The Road Trip

Anyone who knows how to prepare for a long drive knows it’s important to remember to fill up the gas tank and pack snacks and drinks.

The last thing you want is to run out of fuel while you’re in the middle of nowhere.

So, make sure your car is full.

Loading up supplies for eating and drinking also ensures that everyone on the journey will have sustenance. Then, they can happily take in the sights of the new and exciting locations. No one likes “hangry” passengers!

Having these items ready to go beforehand can help reduce worry during the road trip.

Most importantly, it will make way for an enjoyable experience.

5. Set Aside Money for Tolls, Parking, and Emergencies on Your Road Trip

Before hitting the open road on a road trip, it’s important to remember to set aside money for potential tolls and parking fees along the way.

You’ll also want to have extra for unforeseen emergencies.

These costs can quickly add up throughout the course of an extended journey. In this case, it pays off to plan and save ahead of time.

Making room in your budget now can help you enjoy a stress-free experience during your trip.

That’s because you’ll know that you have resources if you need them.

A big part of knowing how to prepare for a long trip is being prepared for unforeseen emergencies.

Even a simple holiday quickly turns into an expensive excursion if you aren’t setting aside enough money beforehand.

To ensure you get where you’re going without breaking the bank, be sure to do your research and anticipate any extra expenses that might come up along the way.

6. Prepare to Be Away by Covering Your Responsibilities at Home

While you may be focused on preparing your car and yourself for the journey, you also want to think about what you’re leaving behind.

Make sure you’ve taken care of all your responsibilities at home so you can travel worry free.

That means lining up someone to care for your home, pets, and children, if need be.

You’ll also want to make sure you’re work responsibilities are covered as well.

Leave behind important contact information and your itinerary for those who need it, too.

For loved ones who would be interested in knowing where your journey takes you, you may even want to turn on location sharing on your smartphone.

That way, they can enjoy following your travels.

And once you know how to prepare for a long drive, chances are you’ll be taking more!

7. Drive Safely and Take Breaks Often to Avoid Fatigue on Your Long Road Trip

With summer road trips around the corner, driving safely and taking necessary breaks are important to avoid fatigue.

Fatigue while driving can increase the risk of accidents.

That poses a serious threat to you and other drivers on the road.

Planning ahead for rest stops will help you stay focused on the trip, even during lengthy drives.

So, you’ll want to regularly take at least 15 minute-breaks every two hours while driving to remain alert throughout your journey.

Not only will it allow you to make a rest stop, but it’s important to stretch your legs.

It is also wise to switch up drivers every couple of hours if possible.

That way you’ll be sure that someone is always well-rested behind the wheel.

Drive safely and take breaks often to ensure a safe trip and return home safe!

Final Thoughts on How to Prepare For a Long Drive

Use these tips to make sure you and your vehicle are prepared for the journey ahead.

By planning your route, packing snacks and drinks, and filling up your gas tank, you’ll be ready for anything the open road throws your way.

And by making sure your car is in good working order before you hit the road, you can relax and enjoy the ride knowing that you’re prepared for whatever comes your way.

Now that you now how to prepare for a long drive, you are ready to your adventure ahead.

Better yet, you won’t have any worries about your car and what you need to enjoy a long drive.

Happy travels to you!

Jackie Gately at the beach


About Jackie Gately, editor-IN-CHIEF

I'm Jackie Gately, your travel confidante and the creative force behind Enjoy Travel Life, awarded the "Best Casual-Luxury Lifestyle Blog (USA)" in Travel and Tourism by LUXlife Magazine for four consecutive years.

With 25 years of published expertise, I'm a seasoned writer, editor, and photographer curating inspiring travel guides and lifestyle tips for empty nesters. I hope to kindle your spirit of exploration, encouraging you to overcome obstacles and turn your dreams into reality.

Learn to minimize your pre-travel angst and maximize the joy of exploration with insights from my experiences. Let's make every adventure a celebration of this exciting phase of life! 

Follow my social channels for more inspiration.

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