Long Weekend Road Trip Checklist

Insurance Insights | September 4, 2015

Long Weekend Road Trip Checklist

As the final long weekend of the summer is nearing – many are getting ready for one last trip up to the cottage or camping excursion. While focus is placed on ensuring that the coolers are filled and bags are packed many people forget to double-check the condition of their vehicles.Here is a quick checklist to look over before you hit the road so that you can feel confident driving the distance this long weekend.1. Check your tire pressure and tread before leaving. The summer heat can wear down your tires, so be sure that your tires are in good condition and ready for the road.2. Always have a spare tire and the necessary tools to change a tire. Often spare tires are out of sight and out of mind, so be sure you’ve got everything you need in the event of a flat.3. Ensure your car battery is between 1-3 years old. Check for corrosion on the cables or consider replacing it before leaving.4. Ensure your windshield wipers are sharp, and you have an extra bottle of washer fluid.This will prevent you from impaired vision caused by buggy residue.5. Purchase a portable GPS system.It will keep your hands-free and your eyes on the road, which is important with the recent increased fines for distracted driving.6. Proof of ownership, insurance and roadside assistance.Always have them stored somewhere easily accessible.7. Change your oil and filter. Oil is essential to the condition of your vehicle so be sure to be up to date with oil changes before heading out on a long road trip.Accidents happen – sometimes when you least expect them. By making sure you have the list above checked off you can avoid running into issues that will ruin your weekend plans. These simple precautionary steps can relieve a large amount of travel stress, and prepare you and your family for any bumps along the road!