A great road trip starts long before you turn the key. Whether you’re heading across Maine or traveling out of state, preparing your vehicle ahead of time can help prevent breakdowns, delays, and unnecessary stress. Taking a few simple steps before you leave ensures your car is ready for the miles ahead—and helps you enjoy the journey, not just the destination.
Must-Have Items to Keep in Your Vehicle
Important Documents
Always carry essential paperwork such as your driver’s license, registration, insurance information, and owner’s manual. Keep them organized in your glove box so they’re easy to access if needed.
Emergency Supplies
Unexpected situations can happen, even with the best planning. Pack items like phone chargers, a flashlight, bottled water, non-perishable snacks, and a basic first-aid kit. These essentials can make a big difference if you experience delays or roadside issues.
Roadside Repair Essentials
A roadside emergency kit is a smart addition to any vehicle. Jumper cables, a tire inflator or sealant, reflective safety gear, warning triangles, and basic tools can help you handle minor issues safely. Make sure your spare tire is properly inflated and ready to use.
Schedule a Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
Packing the right supplies is important—but so is making sure your vehicle is mechanically ready. Before you hit the road, have your tires, brakes, battery, fluids, heating, and air conditioning checked by a professional. Preventive inspections help catch small issues before they turn into major problems on the highway.
Travel Smarter With Help From Don Foshay’s
At Don Foshay’s Discount Tire & Alignment, our experienced technicians help drivers prepare for safe, reliable road trips every day. From tire inspections and alignments to battery testing and maintenance checks, we’ll make sure your vehicle is ready for whatever the road brings.
Don’t leave road-trip readiness to chance— Schedule pre-trip inspection today at one of our six Maine locations and travel with confidence.



