The Ultimate Roadtrip

Prep Guide:

Stay Safe, Comfortable, and Breakdown-Free

 

A few summers ago, one of our team members packed up the car for a classic East Coast road trip: Rochester, NY → Jersey Shore → Washington, DC → back home. 

Her daughter was only 6 months old at the time, and she carefully planned everything: naps were scheduled, snacks were prepped, and playlists were queued.

But somewhere in Aberdeen, Maryland, their car broke down.

With a baby in the backseat and no local mechanic in sight, the stress was immediate.

Where to tow it?

How long would the repair take?

Could they even afford the unexpected cost of a hotel while they waited?

They made it through, but as she later said, “If we’d had Sprout Assure back then, everything would’ve been so much easier.”

To make road trip planning a little easier this year, we’ve put together this helpful guide so you can spend more time enjoying yourself and less time stressing. 

Whether you’re heading out of state with the kids and dog, or are seeing where the road takes you, here’s how to make sure the only thing you’re worrying about is what roadside diner to stop at next.

Before You Go: Prep Your Vehicle

A smooth trip starts with a car that’s ready to go the distance. Here’s what to check (and fix, if needed) before you hit the highway.

Vehicle Readiness Checklist:

  • Oil change (if it’s been over 5,000 miles)
  • Top off all fluids: brake, coolant, windshield washer, transmission
  • Check battery life and terminal corrosion
  • Inspect tires: pressure, tread depth, and spare
  • Test your A/C, especially if you’re headed somewhere hot
  • Replace wiper blades if streaky or cracked
  • Check all lights (headlights, taillights, turn signals)
  • Listen for strange sounds when braking, accelerating, or turning
  • And finally, make sure your Mechanical Breakdown Coverage is active. With Sprout Assure, you’re covered at any licensed mechanic nationwide, so even if you break down in the middle of nowhere, help is just a phone call away (more on that later).

 

Road Tripping with Kids: Extra Preparation Pays Off

Traveling with little ones? A great road trip can quickly become a disaster without snacks, entertainment, and the occasional backseat nap. 

If you’re going to be on the road overnight, be sure you have your overnight accommodations picked out, and plan for time where the kids can play and get some energy out after being in the car all day. 

Parent Road Trip Must-Haves:

  • Diaper bag essentials: wipes, diapers, change of clothes
  • Car-friendly snacks: think mess-free and protein-packed
  • Entertainment: download shows, audiobooks, music, or games in advance (if using a tablet, don’t forget a charger!)
  • Sunshades for windows to keep the backseat cool
  • Emergency items: motion sickness bags, thermometer, meds
  • Their favorite toy and the plushie they can’t sleep without
  • Blankets or pacifiers for comfort on long stretches
  • Bonus tip: Build in time for frequent stops. Even a 10-minute break to stretch legs and change a diaper can save your sanity.

 

Bringing Pets? Don’t Forget These Essentials

Pets are family too, and road trips with furry friends can be fun and safe with a little extra prep. They need their comforts from home, just like little kids. 

Pet Road Trip Checklist:

  • Harness with seat belt or crate for their safety (and yours) while traveling
  • Fresh water and a collapsible bowl
  • An adequate supply of their food (with a little extra, just in case)
  • Leash, collar, and ID tags; consider a microchip in case they slip out of their collar (and make sure the microchip registration is current)
  • Pet first aid kit (with any meds they need)
  • Towels or seat covers to manage shedding and mud
  • Toys or chews to keep them calm on long stretches
  • Pet-friendly hotel reservations (double check policies!)
  • And of course, never leave pets in the car, even for “just a few minutes.”

 

Unexpected Costs: The Hidden Threat to Any Road Trip

As we saw at the beginning of this article, even with the best planning, breakdowns can still happen. 

And the farther from home you are, the more stressful it becomes.

According to the 2025 AAA Summer Driving Forecast, over 450,000 vehicles will break down during the July 4th weekend alone, with battery failure, A/C issues, and cooling system malfunctions topping the list.

When you’re on the road, breakdowns become more than the actual repair cost. You might also face:

  • Towing expenses
  • Unexpected hotel nights
  • Missed reservations or activities (prepaid, of course!)
  • Limited mechanic options (which can mean higher prices or delayed access to parts)

 

That’s why Sprout Assure is such a must-have for any road trip.

How Sprout Assure Protects You on the Road

Sprout Assure offers Mechanical Breakdown Coverage that’s built for travelers. 

If your A/C goes out in Georgia or your alternator fails in Ohio, you’re covered.

Here are six things that make Mechanical Breakdown Coverage ideal for any roadtripper:

  1. Nationwide coverage at any licensed repair shop
  2. Flexible plans: choose from a zero deductible or a low-cost deductible
  3. Transparent claims process: no delays, no red tape
  4. $150/year towing reimbursement
  5. Oil change reimbursement up to $100/year
  6. Covers engines, transmissions, brakes, A/C, electrical systems, and more

 

Peace of mind is the best travel companion, and Sprout Assure delivers.

So before you go, make sure to download and complete your checklist:

Your Complete Road Trip Checklist. A vehicle is driving down the open road.

Prepare for the Fun and the Unexpected

Road trips are about freedom, fun, and discovering new places, not worrying about where the nearest trustworthy mechanic is.

Sprout Assure’s Mechanical Breakdown Coverage gives you confidence, whether you’re 10 miles from home or 300 miles into your adventure.

Because car repairs shouldn’t ruin your family vacation, get the coverage that goes wherever you go.


Join Sprout Assure’s Auto Club Membership Today