Road trip essentials and packing checklist

Preparing your home

If you’re leaving home to go on holiday, you don’t just want to close the door and hope for the best – instead, take steps to make your home as secure and protected as possible. An easy way to do that is with set’n’forget smart lighting – tech that enables you to set certain lights to turn on at a particular time or at random intervals to make it seem like you’re at home when you’re actually away.

The good news is, most smart lights don’t require re-wiring – you can just remove existing globes and plug in smart ones. Smart lamps, light strips and smart floodlight and camera combos are also available. Some models offer remote dimming and light scheduling, some connect and work via WIFI, while others use a tiny adaptor box you plug into your modem.

Other home security measures include smart doorbell cameras, where you can see who’s at the door and even speak to visitors through your smartphone (depending on the model). You can also install entry sensors on doors and windows that send an alert if someone tries to enter your home while you’re away.

When you’re on the road

Have car, will travel … but only if that vehicle is roadworthy, right? Before hitting the road, carry out some essential car checks for safety and visibility. These include inspecting your tyres and making sure they’re inflated to the proper level. If your tyres’ tread depth is below 1.5mm (check it with one of these), it’s worth investing in new tyres before the trip – some experts even suggest replacing tyres at 3mm tread depth, so don’t put it off; properly maintained tyres can save you money and keep you safe. By the way, don’t forget to check the spare tyre as well (the NRMA advises replace the spare every 10 years).

Similarly, you’ll want to test that all your car’s lights – headlights, tail lights and indicators – are in working order. Measure oil levels and fluids and top anything up that’s low. You’ll also want to fill up your windscreen washer reservoir. Check the car’s jack as well.

If you’re going off-road or on a long trip, it’s worth stocking up on road trip vehicle essentials, such as a tyre gauge, portable air compressor, oil funnel, emergency first aid kit and jumper leads, and a spare jerry can and supplies of oil and coolant. Organise the car boot so it’s easy to find what you need.

For added comfort in the car, a dash device mount for your smartphone can make it easier to play music and answer calls on the road – and you could invest in a portable DVD player to keep the kids amused in the backseat.

At your destination

Happy campers are prepared campers – and trust us, you’ll want the right gear on hand when you arrive at your destination tired, hungry and in need of a hot shower.

To make sure your holiday is as stress-free and comfortable as possible, your camping checklist should cover the basics: proper shelter such as a sturdy tent, self-inflating airbeds and sleeping bags; clever food storage such as a camping cooler or a camping fridge freezer; and camp kitchen essentials like a portable barbecue, gas stove, billy can or kettle for your morning cuppa, picnicware, and a folding storage table for food prep and serving. If you’re going off grid, you could always add a camp toilet – and solar-powered shower; a little bit of luxury at the end of the day.

Finally, there’s safety and comfort to factor in and for this you’ll need torches and camping lighting so you’re not stumbling around in the dark. Portable camping power options are also important, and don’t forget the all-essential camp chairs! A gazebo is also great for unpredictable weather so you can still cook and hang out outside.

Safe travels and enjoy your road trip!

Ready to go?

We’ve got plenty more ideas and products to help you get road trip ready online or at your local store (check for availability and trading hours). For our WA customers, shop online or in-store at Armadale, Bayswater, Cannington, Kalgoorlie or Bunbury.