Going On A Road Trip These Hols? Here’s A Handy Checklist To Get You Prepared

We’re coming up to that time of year when holidays are on the cards, and for many of us that means hittin’ the road to explore our beautiful state of Western Australia. Before you embark on the trip though, it’s important to make sure your car is up to scratch with a series of simple checks – something we often forget in the excitement of holiday time. 

With the help of RAC, here are 6 essential things to check off before hittin’ the road on your next West Australian adventure: 

Check your fluids:

When was the last time you checked your oil and coolant? We can’t remember either, but it doesn’t take long and making sure you’re topped up will help avoid the engine overheating – or worse. If you’re not sure how, here’s a primer for a basic car check, covering: 

– oil
– radiator coolant
– windscreen washer fluid

Pump those tyres up: 

Another one we don’t check enough, it’s simple but important to make sure your tyres are pumped up. All service stations have an air and water section, and you can find out what tyre pressure (psi) your tyres need by checking the wall of the placard inside your car or the car’s manual (more info here).

Lights check: 

Run through all your lights and indicators to make sure they’re working correctly. If they’re not working and you’re not comfortable replacing them yourself, many car accessory outlets will be happy to help you out after you’ve purchased them. 

If you’re an RAC member you can actually take your car to an RAC Auto Services centre for a free 30-minute fault diagnosis, you’ve just gotta book in advance (more info here, T&Cs apply).

Give your car battery a once-over:

Before you go, look out for signs that your car battery may be nearing the end of its serviceable life. This can include a clicking or grinding sound when you start the car, finding the engine takes a little longer to fire up after you turn the key, or your headlights being dim when the engine idles but brighter when it’s revved. If you suspect the battery may be getting weaker, consider replacing it before you head off. RAC Batteries can come to you at no extra charge and install a new battery – book online at rac.com.au/carbatteries.

Map it out ahead of time: 

We all rely on map apps to get us around, but what happens if you lose reception and your device or application doesn’t work? If you know your exact destination a smart work around is to save the map in advance – you may not get up-to-date traffic info but at least you’ll be on the right track. You can also go old school and purchase and up-to-date physical map of the areas you’re heading, tucked safely behind the driver seat just like our parents did!

Roadside assistance:

Right you’re all checked up and ready to go, but sometimes a breakdown can’t be avoided, and getting roadside assistance with RAC could save you a world of hurt – it’s the best way to give yourself the best chance to get back on the road following misfortune. RAC has the largest roadside assistance network in WA, plus members enjoy 10% off car servicing, batteries and tyres. 9/10 cars are fixed on the spot!

They’ve got four cover options – Standard, Classic, Ultimate and Ultimate Plus, with Standard setting you back less than $10 a month. We suggest comparing each option HERE, where you’ll find different inclusions like taxi fares, locksmiths, free towing, unlimited callouts and more. 24/7 attendance is available around all metro areas, along with Albany, Bunbury, Busselton, Kalgoorlie and Geraldton, with roadside assistance in general covering all of WA – very handy for the road trippers out there.

So if you’re in the midst of planning your next road trip or just want a bit of peace of mind driving around town, head to RAC Roadside Assistance to explore your options now.