Before your road trip pack an emergency kit in your car. Your emergency kit should include: blanket, bottled water, non-perishable food, jumper cables, a flashlight with extra batteries, emergency road flares and first aid kit.

Vehicle Maintenance Checklist

1. Get a tune up - This typically includes oil change, mechanical inspection and tire rotation.
2. Have all fluids checked - This usually includes the brake fluid, transmission fluid, power-steering fluid and coolant strength checked.
3. Tires - Replace tires with uneven wear or tread damage and don't forget to check your spare tire and its release mechanisms (particularly if the tire is stored underneath or on the outside of the vehicle). Also make sure you have all the essential tools to fix a flat tire if needed (a jack and cranking mechanism, tire wrench and tire gauge).
4. Wheel alignment - Have wheel alignment checked by a professional, especially if you've recently encountered large potholes or curb drive. This helps avoid rapid tire wear, damage and pulling.
5. Lights - Check and replace all burned out lights. Also make sure you have necessary replacements.
6. Wipers - Check and replace wiper blades if they are worn or damaged.
7. Air conditioning - Check air conditioning refrigerant levels and filters; otherwise warm air may be emitted.
8. Flushing - Flush your cooling system to prevent acid build-up, which can lead to a leaking seals, burst hose (or both) and cause overheating.
9. Battery - Inspect the battery case for cracks, bulging or leaking fluid, which indicate it needs to be replaced immediately.
10. Windshield - Clean your windshield inside and out, and top up your winter washer fluid.