How to Get Your Car Ready for Out-of-Town Trips
Whether it’s a quick weekend escape to Tagaytay, a beach trip to Zambales, or a breezy vacation in Baguio, one thing’s for sure: long drives from Greater Metro Manila need proper preparation.
Our unpredictable roads can throw anything at you—stop-and-go traffic, sudden rain, winding mountain routes, and expressway speed limits. Making sure your car is ready not only prevents stress, but it also keeps you and your passengers safe.
Here’s a 6-step checklist to get your vehicle road-trip ready.
1. Check and Top Up All Essential Fluids
Your car’s fluids keep its systems working smoothly. Running low on any of them can turn a fun trip into an inescapable roadside stop.
- Engine oil – Check the level and condition. If it’s dark or your oil change is overdue, have it replaced before the trip.
- Coolant – Vital for preventing overheating, especially on long climbs like Kennon Road or Marcos Highway.
- Brake fluid – Low or dirty brake fluid reduces stopping power, which is risky on winding roads.
- Transmission fluid – Essential for smooth gear shifts.
- Windshield washer fluid – A clean windshield is a must during sudden downpours.
💡 Tip: Have these checked at a trusted Metro Manila service center at least a few days before your trip so there’s time to fix any issues.
2. Inspect Your Tires and Spare
Tires are your car’s only contact with the road, so their condition directly affects safety, fuel efficiency, and ride comfort.
- Pressure – Check against the recommended PSI (usually found on the driver’s side door frame). Underinflated tires overheat faster, while overinflated ones have less grip.
- Tread depth – Worn treads reduce traction, especially on wet roads.
- Spare tire – Ensure it’s inflated and ready.
- Tools – Don’t forget the jack, lug wrench, and any special keys for locking wheel nuts.
If you’re driving on expressways like NLEX, SLEX, or TPLEX, proper tire condition isn’t just smart—it’s also required for safety compliance.
3. Test Your Battery and Brakes
A weak battery can leave you stranded far from help, and unreliable brakes can make mountain or provincial driving dangerous.
Battery:
- Check for corrosion on terminals.
- Note the age (most last 2–4 years in Philippine conditions).
- Have it tested if you’re unsure.
Brakes:
- Listen for squealing or grinding sounds.
- Test for any pulling to one side when braking.
- Make sure the parking brake holds firmly—especially important for uphill stops in places like Tagaytay.
4. Make Sure Lights and Wipers Are Fully Functional
Visibility is key when traveling early morning, at night, or in bad weather.
- Test headlights, tail lights, brake lights, hazard lights, and turn signals.
- Replace burnt-out bulbs immediately.
- Clean cloudy headlight covers to restore brightness.
- Check wiper blades, and replace them if they leave streaks.
Driving from Metro Manila to the provinces often means passing through unlit stretches of road, so your lights must be dependable.
5. Prepare an Emergency and Travel Kit
Even a well-maintained car can face surprises like accidents, sudden flat tires, or hours stuck in traffic. Pack:
- Jumper cables
- First-aid kit
- Basic tools (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench)
- Flashlight with spare batteries
- Reflective warning triangles (required on expressways)
- Bottled water and snacks
If traveling with kids, add extra snacks, wet wipes, and small entertainment options to keep them comfortable.
6. Plan Your Route and Manage Your Load
Long drives are smoother when you know your stops and avoid overloading.
- Routes – Study your path on Waze or Google Maps, but also note alternative roads in case of closures or heavy traffic.
- Fuel stops – Gas up before leaving Metro Manila, and know where the next stations are, especially in rural areas.
- Toll payments – Make sure your RFID (Easytrip for NLEX, Autosweep for SLEX/TPLEX) has enough balance. Reloading is now easier with linked GCash accounts.
- Load limits – Overloading affects handling and fuel use. Distribute weight evenly and secure luggage properly.
Spending an hour or two preparing your car can save you from hours of delay or costly repairs far from home.
From Greater Metro Manila, long drives often start with heavy traffic and end with challenging roads, so preparation is your best friend.
Think of it as setting the tone for your trip: a well-checked car means you can enjoy the scenery, the company, and the journey as you should.
