What You Need to Do Before You Start Your Summer Road Trip (Don't Skip #4!)

Summer in British Columbia is road trip season. The lakes are calling, the mountains are shining, and the open road feels like freedom. But before you pack your snacks and queue your playlist, there's one thing you can't afford to ignore: your vehicle's health.

Every summer, we get calls from families stranded on Highway 1 or friends stuck halfway to Kelowna because something as simple as a low tire or dead battery ruined their weekend. Don't let that be you.

Here's what you need to check before starting your road trip — from the team that sees roadside problems every single day.

🚗 1. Do a Full Vehicle Inspection (Or Have It Done)

Before you hit the highway, make sure your vehicle is road-trip ready. This means checking:

• Engine oil and fluid levels (coolant, brake fluid, power steering, washer fluid)
• Battery health
• Tire pressure and tread (including your spare!)
• Brakes
• Headlights, brake lights, and signals

Even better — swing by your local mechanic and ask for a pre-trip inspection. It's quick and often less than $100 — far cheaper than waiting hours for a tow truck in 30°C heat.

🛞 2. Make Sure You Have a Spare Tire (And Tools)

One of the most common roadside issues we see in summer is a blown tire. And guess what? Many newer vehicles don't come with a spare anymore.

Check your trunk:

• Do you have a spare tire?
• Is it inflated?
• Do you have the jack and tools to change it?

If not, pick up a tire repair kit or portable air compressor from Canadian Tire or Walmart before hitting the road.

🔋 3. Test Your Battery

Hot weather is just as hard on batteries as the winter cold. If your battery is 3+ years old, get it tested before your trip. You don't want to end up Googling "battery boost near me" on a backroad in Hope, BC.

🧰 4. Pack a Roadside Emergency Kit

We've seen drivers stuck for hours just because they didn't have the basics.

Every vehicle should have:

• Jumper cables
• A flashlight (with extra batteries)
• A first-aid kit
• Bottled water and snacks
• Reflective triangles or flares
• Phone charger or power bank

Bonus: Add paper towels, duct tape, and a multi-tool. You'll thank us later.

🗺️ 5. Plan Your Route — and Have a Backup

Don't just rely on Google Maps. Cell signals drop in areas like the Coquihalla or BC-3. Keep a physical map in the glovebox and screenshot your route before leaving.

Also, make a note of:

• Rest stops and gas stations
• Emergency numbers (like your roadside assistance provider)
• Alternate routes in case of closures

🔍 6. Know Who to Call in an Emergency

You don't want to be stuck on the side of the highway typing "roadside assistance near me" into your phone with 2% battery left. Save a reliable dispatch number in your contacts before you leave.

📱 Pro Tip: Add TowTruckNow or TowSquad to your phone so you're covered anywhere in the Lower Mainland or across BC. We'll connect you with a local operator right away for towing, boosts, flat tires, and more.

🧳 7. Don't Overload Your Car

It's easy to overpack, especially for a long weekend getaway — but too much weight can strain your brakes and suspension. Check your car's max load limit (often listed on the driver-side door frame) and pack smart.

Heavy cooler? Try to distribute weight evenly in the trunk.

🌡️ 8. Keep Cool — So Does Your Engine

Make sure your coolant is topped up and the radiator is clean and working. An overheated engine is one of the top reasons drivers get stranded on summer trips. If you see your temperature gauge rising, pull over immediately and call for help.

🚨 Bonus: Know the Signs of Trouble

If you notice any of these while driving, don't ignore them:

• Strange noises
• Pulling or vibrations
• Warning lights
• Burning smells
• Temperature spike

It's always better to stop and call for help than risk a breakdown in the middle of nowhere.

✅ Final Words Before You Hit the Road

A summer road trip in BC should be full of great views, great company, and great memories — not stress on the side of the highway. With a little prep and a backup plan (like TowTruckNow in your contacts), you can drive with confidence.

Safe travels out there. And if you ever need help, we're just a call or search away.