Here’s what you need to tick off your road trip checklist and ensure your journey is a safe and memorable one, starting with an RCS Store Card application.

There’s nothing quite as liberating and fun as hitting the open road with family or friends on a much-needed road trip. However, with a road trip often being several hundred kilometres long, it’s crucial that you ensure your car is fit for the road and you have all the goodies you need for a comfortable journey. Luckily, by completing a quick and simple RCS Store Card application, you can access a variety of automotive specialists and retailers within the RCS Shopping Network to ensure you have the trip of a lifetime.
START WITH A CAR SERVICE
Avoid a major mechanical breakdown by ensuring your car has had its scheduled minor or major service.
CHECK YOUR TYRES, INCLUDING THE SPARE
Check your tyre tread depth and that all your tyres are properly balanced and professionally aligned. Don’t forget to also check your spare tyre pressure.
CHECK YOUR CAR LIGHTS
Check all lights are working, from the fog to the brake lights.
CLEAN THE WINDOWS AND CHECK FOR ANY CRACKS
Ensure your windscreen is clean for optimum visibility, and fix any chips or cracks.
CHECK YOUR BRAKES
Test how your car reacts when braking. Ensure you have enough brake fluid, and if your brakes make squeaky sounds, look into getting them replaced.
CHECK YOUR OIL
Check your oil level and whether you need a top-up or a complete oil change to keep your engine running smoothly.
CHECK THE BATTERY
With a life expectancy of 3 to 5 years, it’s important to check your car battery’s voltage and current levels using a multimeter.
TAKE BREAKS
Make regular stops along the way to check your water, oil and tyres at selected Engen stations nationwide. Use this time to stretch your feet while you refuel too.
GET YOUR CAR ROAD TRIP-READY
Checking to see whether your car is ready to hit the road is a non-negotiable before setting off on any road trip. Complete an RCS Store Card application to access the automotive services and products you need from retailers within the RCS Shopping Network. Don’t have an RCS Store Card? Apply for yours today.