Getting Your Vehicle Prepared for Holiday Travel

Planning to travel over the holidays? You're not alone. Discover practical tips to prepare your car for the journey. From maintenance checks to packing essentials, these suggestions can help make your trip smoother and safer.

October 17, 2024 | Auto

By: Lisa D.

Lisa D. has almost 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, including over 15 years at Acuity. Before starting at Acuity, she obtained her P&C license and sold personal insurance. She keeps a pulse on industry trends while continuing to specialize in developing and updating personal auto insurance products. On top of that, Lisa has her Association in General Insurance (AINS) and Associate in Personal Insurance (API) designations. Outside of work, Lisa enjoys cooking, photography, and spending time with her family. The last two go hand in hand, as she takes pictures of her kids every day.

Author of Auto Focus

In 2023, AAA estimated about 55 million Americans traveled over 50 miles from home for Thanksgiving, and nearly 120 million traveled during Christmas and New Year's Day. Whether you’re one of the many dashing through the snow or traveling over the river and through the woods during the holiday season, here’s a list of items to get your car ready before you leave:

Maintenance check. Be sure your car is in working order—especially the tires, wiper blades, temperature controls, and fluid levels. Don’t forget to check the engine for any issues, including the oil level and signs of wear. Review your owner’s manual for guidelines regarding antifreeze and cold-weather wiper fluid.
Battery Check: Cold weather can reduce a car battery's capacity. Before hitting the road, ensure your battery is in good condition or consider getting it tested to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Have an emergency road kit. A first-aid kit, jumper cables, tire repair tools, flashlight, phone charger, paper towel, garbage bag, bottled water, and nonperishable snacks are important to have in your car year-round. Add an ice scraper, snow brush, blanket, gloves, hats, boots, and sand or kitty litter to prepare for winter weather.
Pack. In addition to the emergency kit, pack activities for passengers as well as chargers and extra batteries for electronics. Put any valuables in the trunk or covered out of sight. Have roadside assistance contact information, driver’s license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and owner’s manual information handy.
Plan your route. Pre-program your journey into your phone or navigation system to gauge how long your trip will take and to anticipate stops, tolls, and construction. Check the weather forecast ahead of time for travel conditions.
Fill up the tank. Start with a full tank of gas and keep it half full to prepare for weather, construction, or traffic delays.