Thinking about hitting the road on a long trip with friends or family? Well, before you do so, it is better to take the vehicle to a car or an auto mechanic. They will not only check out the car tires but will also do an oil change or auto repair which might be needed.

Scheduling a checkup
Schedule a checkup of the vehicle with the car mechanic. In case you are to drive down during winter months, they will offer you tips on car winterization and car safety measures that might be needed. Moreover, a trip to the mechanic will also ensure that all required car accessories are in place. You can also consult them for cars with seasonal tires or some of the top family vehicles that are available for a long trip, in case you do not wish to take your own car out.

Check the battery charge
The battery of the car should have clear terminals. The AAA (Triple A) battery should be in optimal working condition, and if you notice any kinds of issues, do get it checked with the mechanic.

Check out the tire
If you have been reading car news periodically, it also points out to the fact that the tires should be inspected for any tear or bulge before you hit the road, especially on a long trip. The tires in normal circumstances should always have a lot of tread left on them so as to perform optimally. Moreover, you might also be considering having car racks or car bike rack installed on the roof. This also makes it compulsory to have a thorough check of the tires so that they can perform in their best condition, and you do not end up stuck in the middle of the road on a desolate highway.

Check the brakes
Car safety also calls for getting the brakes checked and inspected on a regular basis. Before you decide to leave on a long trip, it is better that you get the brakes checked regularly from the mechanic so that the journey is smooth enough. You can also perform a random check of the car before you hit the road, as it will help you find out any abnormality that needs to be addressed on an immediate basis.

Be prepared for eventuality
Since you would be traveling with friends and family on the trip, carrying a medicine box that has all the necessary medications and keeping it in your car storage will be a good idea. You never know when you might require some of these, and if you have the necessary stock, you will have a source of first aid.

Check out the insurance options
Insurance companies in the country offer different types of car insurance which also includes collision insurance and catastrophic medical expenses insurance among others. It will be a worthy idea to get any of these insurance covers in case you do not have a comprehensive travel insurance cover.

Smart packing
Smart packing always makes the trip easier. Ensure that you not only carry less luggage but should also pack it smartly enough so that you end up making the trip easy for yourself. You should use good quality car racks or a car bike rack when it comes to carrying additional luggage or a bike alongside.

The more cargo you carry, the less the fuel economy of the car will be and it will obviously eat into your pocket, which is something that you would not want.

Tracking system
You could probably also have a portable tracking GPS system installed so that your loved ones who have not gone on the trip can keep a watch on your location and get in touch with the authorities in case such an eventuality does arise.

Follow the above-listed tips and keep yourself updated with the latest car news and your road trip will be a never-ending journey which you will cherish for long.