When heading out on a family trip, there are many steps that should be taken to ensure that if something goes wrong, you’re adequately prepared.  Make sure your car insurance is up to date. Put your insurance card in your glove box in case it is needed. Also store your car registration and some emergency cash in your glove box.

If you are not already a member of a car club, you may want to consider joining an organization such as AAA as help is provided quickly in difficult road situations. If travel insurance is important to you, go ahead and start a policy, if you don’t have one already.

Make an emergency plan of action
Before leaving on your trip, think about possible scenarios and how you can prevent them. Make a list of auto repair shops in the area where you’re headed, contact info for your insurance agent, and where to call or go in case of a medical emergency.

Safety in the car
Involve all travelers in the safety preparations. Particularly if there are children traveling, talk to them about the importance of being safe in the car. Offer simple tips such as buckling seatbelts, staying seated in the car, not roaming off at rest stops, and other basic safety rules.

Check out your car
Inspect all the important things such as the engine, muffler, battery and brakes. Make sure that your car is going to be reliable when it comes to getting you where you need to go. Take your car to a reliable mechanic or dealership to have a brief inspection. Make sure your car has plenty of fluids – oil, brake fluid, antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, and even gas in your car. Also check the air pressure in the tires, make sure the tread is in good shape and make sure your spare is in the trunk.

Pack your car and trunk
After you’ve got toys and games for the kids, focus on the necessities for the car. Any of these items may come in handy while you’re on the road: map, water bottles, handi-wipes, napkins or paper towels, pen and paper, cell phone charger, sunglasses, sunscreen and magazines or books for passengers.
Your trunk should include items such as flares, jumper cables, tire jack and iron, plus any other important item that your car could need in an emergency. While you may be able to purchase those items when you get to where you are going but there is no guarantee that you will be near a store when you need them.

Create an emergency kit for the family
Create a first aid kit full of bandages, ointment, medications, and other medically important items. You will also want to make sure you have a few warm blankets, raincoat, flashlight and emergency food items just in case they are needed.

Plan your route
If you’re looking to map out your route, and you don’t have a navigation system handy, “MapQuest”:http://www.mapquest.com or AAA can assist with the best route to take. Always leave extra time to get where you’re going. This allows for rest stops, food breaks and gas station stops.

You’re in control
Remember that sometimes no amount of preparation can prevent certain things from happening. But if you take all of the steps to prepare for a safe road trip, you’ll be much more likely to avoid unsafe situations. You’ll also be able to enjoy your road trip and you’ll find comfort in knowing that your safety preparations were worth it.