Travel Prep: By Automobile
Overland travel by automobile is still the most common way families cross the Great Plains, and it remains one of the most vulnerable moments for emergencies. Distance between towns can be long, conditions can change quickly, and a simple mechanical issue can escalate fast without preparation. A little planning turns any road trip into a safe, confident journey.
Vehicle Preparation Checklist
Every trip begins with a road-ready vehicle. A short inspection catches the problems most likely to cause breakdowns on the highway.
- Fluids: Check oil level and color, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid (if applicable), power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
- Battery: Ensure clean terminals and solid connections. Replace batteries older than 4–5 years before long trips.
- Belts & Hoses: Look for cracks, fraying, bulges, or leaks. Press gently on hoses; they should feel firm, not spongy.
- Tires: Confirm pressure (including the spare), examine tread depth, and inspect sidewalls for cuts or bulges.
- Wipers: Replace if they smear or chatter. Keep extra washer fluid in the car.
Walk-Around Inspection
Right before departure, complete a two-minute walk-around:
- Lights: Test headlights, high beams, brake lights, turn signals, hazard flashers, and reverse lights.
- Leaks: Look under the vehicle for fresh drips or puddles.
- Obstructions: Check around and under the vehicle for tools, toys, animals, or forgotten gear.
- Load Security: Ensure cargo, roof racks, bike mounts, and trailers are properly secured.
Emergency Gear for the Vehicle
Even a short trip deserves a solid baseline kit. A stalled car in the middle of Nebraska, Kansas, or South Dakota can quickly become a survival situation during extreme heat or cold.
- Spare tire, jack, and lug wrench (verify everything fits your vehicle)
- Portable air compressor and tire plug kit
- Jumper cables or a compact lithium jump starter
- Basic tool kit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench, duct tape, zip ties)
- Road flares or LED triangles
- First-aid kit with tourniquet and gloves
- Flashlight with spare batteries or rechargeable USB light
- Blankets, gloves, and hats (winter)
- Water (1–2 gallons minimum, more in summer)
- Snacks with long shelf life: nuts, jerky, granola bars
- Paper maps of your route—GPS fails more often than people expect
Driving Plan & Stop Strategy
Before you leave, make a plan—not just for the destination, but for how you’ll get there.
- Fuel Planning: Don’t rely on “next gas station in 50 miles.” Fill up at half a tank on rural routes.
- Weather Awareness: Monitor storms, wind advisories, and winter road closures across the Plains.
- Rest Intervals: Plan stops every 2–3 hours. Fatigue is a top cause of highway accidents.
- Alternate Routes: Identify at least one backup route. Construction, closures, or accidents can trap traffic for hours.
- Check-In System: Tell someone when you left, where you’re going, and your expected arrival time.
Extra Considerations for the Great Plains
- Heat: Cars overheat quickly in summer. Carry coolant and know how to safely cool an engine.
- Cold: A stalled car in zero-degree weather becomes dangerous fast. Keep coats, hats, gloves, and a blanket inside the cabin.
- Wildlife: Dawn and dusk mean deer. Reduce speed and stay alert.
- Wind: Crosswinds can push vehicles on open highways. Two hands on the wheel.
Should I stay or should I go?
Final Thoughts
Most breakdowns are preventable with a few minutes of preparation. Overland travel should be enjoyable, not stressful. When you understand your vehicle, carry the right gear, and plan your stops, you stay ahead of trouble and keep your family safe no matter where the road takes you.
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