Road Trips Done Right: Essential Prep & What to Do on the Open Road

Making the Most of Your Road Trip

A great road trip is about balancing preparation with spontaneity. While these tips and the checklist help you prepare for the journey, don’t forget to embrace the unexpected. Some of the best memories happen off the beaten path—whether it’s discovering a hidden café or taking an unplanned detour to a scenic lookout.



Taking care of your car before the trip ensures you can focus on the fun and not worry about potential breakdowns. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, proper prep makes all the difference.

Don't Leave Without Doing These First!

1. Check the Health of Your Car

Before you set out, inspect the basics of your car. Look at oil levels, brake fluid, and coolant. Make sure your tires are in good condition, with adequate tread and proper pressure. If your car is due for a service or you notice anything unusual (like weird noises or warning lights), get it checked by a mechanic.

2. Clean and Organise the Interior

You’ll spend a lot of time in your car, so make it a pleasant space. Declutter the cabin, vacuum, and wipe down surfaces. Pack essentials like charging cables, snacks, and tissues in easy-to-reach places. A clean car not only feels better but also helps you find things quickly.

3. Plan for Entertainment

Long stretches of highway can get dull, so prep a killer playlist or download podcasts ahead of time. If you’re travelling with family, consider games or movies for the kids to keep everyone entertained.

4. Pack Smartly and Safely

Avoid overloading your car. Place heavier items low and towards the centre of the vehicle to improve balance. Keep emergency essentials—like a first aid kit, flashlight, and roadside tools—easily accessible.

5. Fuel Up—Literally and Figuratively

Start with a full tank and map out fuel stops along the way, especially in remote areas. Pack water bottles and healthy snacks to keep everyone energised.

6. Know Your Route (But Be Flexible)

Even with GPS, it’s wise to have a printed map as a backup. Check weather conditions and road closures before heading out. A bit of spontaneity can be fun, but having a plan helps avoid unnecessary stress.

7. Prepare for Emergencies

Bring a spare tyre, jack, jumper cables, and a toolkit. Make sure you know how to use them or have a roadside assistance number handy. A little preparation can save a lot of headaches.

Road Trip Checklist (downloadable pdf)

Here’s a comprehensive checklist to tick off before you leave:

Car Maintenance:

• Check oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels.
• Inspect tyre pressure and tread.
• Test all lights (headlights, brake lights, indicators).
• Refill windshield washer fluid.
• Bring spare tire, jack, and tire repair kit.
  
  

Emergency Supplies:

• First aid kit.
• Jumper cables.
• Flashlight and extra batteries.
• Multi-tool or basic toolkit.
• Roadside assistance number.
  
  

Comfort and Entertainment:

• Phone chargers and power banks.
• Snacks and water.
• Playlist, podcasts, or audiobooks.
• Travel pillows and blankets.
  
  

Documents:

• Driver’s licence.
• Vehicle registration and insurance.
• Roadside assistance membership info.
• Printed maps or directions.
  
  

Personal Essentials:

• Sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Medications.
• Tissues and wet wipes.
• Trash bags.
  

What to Do on a Road Trip

Challenge the Driver

Dare them to gently graze the server’s hand when picking up fast food. Bonus points for maintaining eye contact.

Fake Recognition

Pick a random stranger at a servo and insist you went to school with them. Sell it hard. Bonus if they play along.

Accent Roulette

Each town = a new accent. British in Bundaberg? Kiwi in Kilcoy? Stay in character until you’re asked to leave.

Servo Snack Review

Buy the weirdest snack at every stop and rate it like you’re a MasterChef judge. Bonus points for something pickled.

Playlist Sabotage

Secretly queue up one bizarre song every 6th track. Make it increasingly concerning. See who notices first.

Scenic Spot Yoga

Pull over at a lookout and do the most dramatic yoga pose possible. Document it like you're an influencer.

Pretend You’re Lost

At some point, panic everyone with “Wait… this doesn’t look right.” Works best with no signal and weird road signs.

Mystery Passenger

Invent a character who used to be in the car and refer to them casually. “Reckon Craig would’ve loved this view…”

Rating Toilets

Give every public toilet a star rating and a short review on Google. Make it sound way more official than it should be.

Make a Documentary

Film parts of the trip like you’re making a nature doco. Narrate the “wild pack of teens” at the skatepark.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Ride

Stay Connected but Safe

Invest in a phone mount so your GPS is visible but doesn’t distract you from the road. Hands-free calling tools can also come in handy if you need to stay in touch while driving.

Keep the Kids Happy

If you’re travelling with kids, prepare activities to keep them entertained, like colouring books, puzzles, or car games. Snacks in individual portions can also save you from frequent stops.

Don’t Forget Car Security

If you plan to leave your car unattended during stops, ensure valuables are out of sight or locked in the boot. For added peace of mind, consider investing in a steering lock or a car alarm app.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're chasing sunsets along the coast or exploring the heart of the outback, a little preparation goes a long way. With your car in top shape and your checklist ticked off, you can hit the road with confidence—and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Safe travels!