Whether you’re heading to the coast, the desert, or the mountains, road trips are about freedom and adventure. But before you hit the gas, make sure you’re fully prepared for the fun and the unexpected.
1. Vehicle Essentials
-
Check oil, coolant, transmission fluid, and windshield washer.
-
Inspect tire tread, tire pressure, and your spare.
-
Test brakes and all exterior lights.
-
Check battery health.
-
Pack a basic tool kit with wrenches, screwdrivers, duct tape, and jumper cables.
2. Emergency & Recovery Gear
-
Bring a first aid kit.
-
Pack recovery gear like traction boards, tow straps, gloves, and shackles if you plan to go off-road.
-
A compressor is essential, whether you’re airing down for trails or inflating back up for the highway. Models like the 88P or 300P are perfect for road trip peace of mind.
3. Creature Comforts
-
Snacks and water.
-
Blankets and pillows.
-
Downloaded playlists, audiobooks, or podcasts.
-
Trash bags and wet wipes.
4. Navigation & Power
-
Offline maps or GPS apps.
-
Chargers and portable battery packs.
-
Power inverter for larger electronics.
5. Optional, But Smart to Have
-
Cooler or fridge for food and drinks.
-
Camp gear for overnight stops.
-
Camera or GoPro to capture memories.
Bonus Tip: Know Your Tire Pressure
Air down when needed for off-road traction, and don’t forget to air back up before you hit pavement. That’s where a VIAIR compressor really comes in clutch.
Want to take the guesswork out of picking the right compressor? We’ve got a quick product quiz that helps guide you to the perfect fit. Let’s go!
