Vehicular Emergency Preparation: Checklist & Supplies

While not all of us venture into or live in wilderness areas, a great many people drive their vehicles long distance every year on business or pleasure through areas that can be quite challenging should they break down. In the United States, the deserts of the Southwest and winter snow bound North have claimed more than a few unprepared lives. In Australia, the Outback is notorious for swallowing up travels who underestimate its difficulties. The following is a pre-trip checklist and comprehensive equipment recommendations for the long-distance driver.

Car Trip Planning, Before You Leave

Before leaving on a journey through remote areas always notify friends, relatives, station
owners or police of the following information:

Estimated time of departure [ETD]
Check points and scheduled stop (times and place)
Proposed and alternate routes
Estimated time of arrival [ETA]

Don’t forget to notify those concerned once you have safely completed the journey!

Vehicle Check List

Consider taking your vehicle to a trusted service center or dealership and ask them for a basic, pre-trip inspection. Be sure you mention the climate you are driving to or through, so any special considerations can be addressed. They should cover the following items at minimum, though not all may apply to your particular vehicle. You should also check these items yourself before setting out each day on multi-day trips. If you do not know how to do so for your vehicle, consult your owner’s manual and/or ask your mechanicl to show you during his/her pre-trip inspection of your vehicle.

Check engine drive belts
Check engine oil levels
Check coolant levels
Check fuel filter [if possible]
Clean air cleaner
Clean radiator fins
Check brake fluid levels
Check clutch fluid levels
Check power steering fluid level
Check engine for oil leaks
Check engine for coolant leaks
Check transmission for oil leaks
Check differential for oil leaks
Check all steering rods for wear and cracking
Check all joints for wear and cracking
Check all tire pressures
Check all tire for damage
Check battery levels
Check chassis rails for cracks
Tighten all mounting bolts, etc.

Vehicle Tool Kit & Supplies

This is a fairly comprehensive list and may not be applicable to your vehicle model and driving climate, so feel free to modify as needed (i.e. Spark plug socket not needed for a diesel vehicle).