Summer road trips are one of my favorite ways to enjoy the open road, soak up the sunshine, and explore some epic sights along the way. Whether you’re heading to a famous national park or just want to check out some cool pit stops across the country, getting your car ready ahead of time really makes the difference between cruising smoothly and dealing with unexpected hiccups.

If you’re gearing up for a big summer adventure, giving your ride a bit of attention before you hit the road can help you avoid common issues—flat tires, overheating, or just that annoying rattle you keep meaning to check. Here are my top car care tips and a look at some awesome national parks that are known for incredible drives.

1. Check Your Tires (And Bring a Spare)

Your tires are literally what keeps you rolling. I always start by checking the tire pressure with a good digital gauge (don’t just trust the gas station ones). The heat of summer roads can cause the pressure to go up, so it’s smart to keep them right at the manufacturer’s recommended level. I also make sure the tread depth looks good; if you stick a penny in the tread and see all of Lincoln’s head, it might be time for new tires.

Don’t forget the spare. Make sure it’s fully inflated and in decent shape. A portable air compressor or just a can of tire inflator is pretty handy, especially if you’re exploring more remote areas.

  • Check tire pressure before leaving, when tires are cold
  • Inspect tread and look for cracking or uneven wear
  • Confirm your jack and lug wrench are in the trunk

2. Top Off Fluids and Double-Check Your Battery

Keeping all the fluids topped up is super important, especially for long stretches where you might not find a good mechanic. Here’s my basic lineup:

  • Engine oil: Fresh oil helps your engine stay cool
  • Coolant/antifreeze: Keeps the engine from overheating, especially in summer traffic jams
  • Brake, power steering, and transmission fluids: Top these up and look for leaks
  • Windshield washer fluid: You’ll probably run into bugs and dust

Batteries have a tough time in high temperatures. Take a look at the battery terminals for corrosion. A white, powdery buildup can be cleaned off gently with a solution of baking soda and water. If your battery is more than three years old, consider letting an auto shop test it before you hit the highway, since nothing kills summer fun like a car that won’t start after a scenic overlook stop. Also, bringing along a set of jumper cables or a portable jump starter can give you peace of mind in case of a surprise battery issue.

While you’re under the hood, check your belts and hoses for any signs of cracks, fraying, or leaks. Hot weather can push these parts to their limits, and catching issues now can help prevent being stranded miles from help. Also, make sure your wipers are in good condition—unexpected summer rainstorms can mean poor visibility, so you want your windshield clear.

3. Test HVAC and Replace Cabin Air Filter

No one wants to be sweaty and stuck with only hot air blowing from the vents. Before you pack your favorite snacks, run the AC to check that it’s cooling properly. If you notice weak airflow or funky smells, it’s usually the cabin air filter that needs swapping out. These are inexpensive and can be changed in minutes for most cars (check your owner’s manual or look up a quick tutorial for your model).

  • Turn on both heat and AC to test for responsiveness
  • Replace the cabin filter for fresher air and less dust
  • Consider windshield sunshades to help keep the interior cooler

Also, clean out your car’s vents using compressed air or a brush. This helps push out dust and lint that have built up and makes your climate control more effective. Cleaning your dashboard and seats before travel means your ride will feel fresh and enjoyable the whole time you’re on the road. And toss some air fresheners in for a little extra comfort, especially on longer trips!

4. Pack an Emergency Road Kit

Even with the best planning, surprises happen. I keep a road kit with essentials that save time and stress if anything goes sideways. Here’s what I throw in mine:

  • Jumper cables or a portable jump starter
  • First aid kit, flashlight, and extra batteries
  • Basic set of tools and duct tape (seriously, duct tape fixes so much!)
  • Reflective triangle or roadside flares
  • Lots of water and a few protein bars
  • Printed map (for the areas where smartphones get zero service)

Some people also add blankets, sunscreen, and bug spray. If you’re traveling with pets or kids, include extra snacks and their favorite distractions. It’s also a good idea to keep a rain poncho or umbrella handy—the weather can change in a snap, even on the sunniest day.

Consider adding a multiuse utility tool and a tire pressure gauge to your kit. These little additions can come in handy for unexpected repairs or quick checks. Don’t forget some cash for toll booths or rural stores that might not take cards. Planning for small inconveniences can really help you out on a long adventure.

5. Plan Your Route and Know Where to Fuel Up

I’m a fan of spontaneity, but mapping out your route and double-checking where gas stations or charging points are located can save you a ton of trouble. Apps like Google Maps or Roadtrippers make it pretty easy to plan pit stops, cool diners, or scenic detours. For electric vehicles, a few extra minutes planning charging stops can make a big difference, especially in rural areas or mountain parks.

  • Download offline maps in case cell service drops
  • Look up major construction zones or seasonal closures
  • Share your travel plans with a buddy or family member

Here’s a tip I learned the hard way: keep your tank at least half full, especially when heading into national parks or stretches between towns. Summer traffic, detours, or unexpected jams tend to eat up gas faster than you expect. Knowing where you’ll fuel or charge, along with estimating distances between stops, keeps the adventure stress-free. Consider checking weather conditions and any regional wildfire alerts, as these may shift your route or timing.

Top 5 National Parks with Great Driving Road Trips

Mapping your trip around some of America’s famous national parks is absolutely worth it. The scenic drives are breathtaking, and the roadside views are unbeatable. Here are five that really deliver on beautiful road trips:

  • Blue Ridge Parkway (Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC/TN): Famous for winding roads, lush forests, and plenty of scenic overlooks. This is a relaxing drive with lots of picnic spots and spots to stretch your legs.
  • Going to the Sun Road (Glacier National Park, MT): Snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and hairpin turns make it unforgettable. Bring a camera for wildlife—you may spot mountain goats or bears from the safety of your car.
  • Tioga Road (Yosemite National Park, CA): High mountain vistas and granite domes bring a different side of Yosemite to life; you’ll encounter alpine meadows and fewer crowds compared to the main valley.
  • Scenic Drive (Arches National Park, UT): Red rock arches and unique desert landscapes appear right off the road, with easy hikes at almost every stop. The sunsets here are next-level cool, lighting up the rocks in fiery colors.
  • Badlands Loop Road (Badlands National Park, SD): Dramatic rock formations, open prairie, and plenty of wildlife sightings from your window. The loop is also dotted with informative stops for geology buffs and photographers.

If you’re craving more ideas or want to check road conditions in advance, park service websites and recreation.gov are really helpful. Always double-check entry requirements and any vehicle restrictions, especially if you’re driving an RV or towing. Some parks require advance reservations or timed entries now, so take a little time to get up to speed before you hit the road.

Smart Car Care Makes All the Difference

A little prep before you leave is really important for a smooth, safe summer road trip. By checking your tires, topping up fluids, cleaning up the air system, and packing an emergency kit, you’ll skip most common headaches and save time for the fun stuff. Whether you’re chasing sunrises through the mountains or cruising the backroads, planning ahead helps you enjoy every mile. Got a favorite summer road trip story or a tip for prepping the car? I’m always up for swapping travel tales, so leave your best advice below!

If you want to get even more out of your adventures, follow travel blogs, YouTube channels, and online groups for new travel routes and firsthand tips from other drivers. Over time, these shared experiences help you pick up local secrets and find the best spots off the beaten path. Wrapping up, a little preparation can help turn any summer road trip into a safe and memorable adventure. Happy travels!