Before you head off on a summer road trip with your friends, you are going to want to make sure that your vehicle is ready for the drive as well. Here are a few things you'll want to check on or replace before getting on the road.

#1 Change Out The Windshield Wipers

Although it would be awesome if it was clear sailing for your entire trip, if you run into a rain storm, you want to be able to see and drive safely. If you have not changed out your windshield wipers since last winter, you are going to want to put on a new set before you go on a summer road trip. You don't want to be caught in a downpour and not be able to see.

#2 Fill Up Your Windshield Wiper Fluid

When you go on a long road trip, one of the side effects is that you are going to kill a lot of bugs with your vehicle. Some of those bugs that hit your windshield can be large and obstruct your view. In order to ensure that you can continue to see and drive safely, you are going to want to fill up your windshield wiper fluid reservoir so you can ensure that your windshield is clean and easy to look through for your entire trip.

#3 Check Your Oil

Next, you need to check your oil.  You should never set off on a road trip without enough oil in your vehicle. You may not need to change your oil, but you may want to top it off before you head off on your road trip. If you will be due for an oil change after another 500 miles or so, however, you should get your oil changed before you head off on your trip.

#4 Check The Coolant

Make sure that you also check the coolant as well. You don't want your vehicle to overheat on your trip, which is what will happen if you don't have enough coolant in your vehicle. Have your mechanic top off your coolant if it is low, and change it if it has any contaminants in it.

#5 Check Tire Pressure

You should check your tire pressure, too. You want to make sure that you have the right amount of air in your tires. Having the right tire pressure will keep you safe on the road and should also help improve your gas mileage on your road trip.

Finally, pack smart and try to not weigh down your vehicle too much. Keep in mind that when your vehicle is full of gear and passengers, you may not get the same great gas mileage that you are used to due to the extra weight that you are carrying with you. 

If you run into any problems on the road, talk to companies like Hillis 66 Service.