Checklist Before Going on a Road Trip: Essential Checks

Vacation time is approaching, and with it come long drives on European roads. Whether you’re heading out for a few days or several weeks, proper preparation can help minimize the risk of breakdowns, avoid unpleasant surprises, and make your trip more stress-free.

Before hitting the road, there are a few essential checks to make: the condition of your vehicle, required documents, safety equipment, planning your route, and arranging charging stops if you’re traveling in an electric vehicle.

In collaboration with our partner ACL – Automobile Club Luxembourg, we’ve compiled the key points to check before you leave to help you prepare for your vacation under the best possible conditions.

Plan your route before departure

A few minutes of preparation can save you several hours on the road. Before you leave, check traffic conditions, roadwork, any reported traffic jams, and the weather forecast along your route.

If you’re traveling through multiple countries, also check for tolls, environmental zones, speed limits, or local regulations that could affect your trip.

The ACL offers its members a personalized route planning service, allowing you to plan a trip tailored to your destination and needs. This service can be particularly useful for long trips in Europe or when multiple routes are possible.

Have your vehicle inspected several weeks before departure

A well-maintained vehicle significantly reduces the risk of breakdowns during your vacation. Ideally, schedule this inspection three to four weeks before your departure to allow enough time for any necessary repairs.

Before hitting the road, it’s recommended that you check the following in particular:

• the battery;
• the tires (pressure and wear);
• the brakes;
• the shock absorbers;
• the lights;
• the windshield wipers;
• oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid levels.

The ACL Diagnostic Center offers a Vacation Checkup to inspect all of your vehicle’s key safety components. This diagnostic service, available to everyone, is performed independently—without carrying out any repairs—so you are free to choose the professional who will perform the work if any issues are detected.

ACL members receive preferential rates for this service.

Traveling with Children

If you’re traveling with your family, be sure to check that the car seats are still appropriate for your children’s age, height, and weight. A properly installed car seat is essential for their safety during the trip.

Also pack some games or activities to keep them occupied, as well as water and a snack. The drive to your vacation destination can sometimes take longer than expected. Be prepared for traffic jams on the highway, especially if there are no gas stations nearby.

Check your vehicle’s required safety equipment

The safety equipment required in a vehicle can vary from country to country. Before you leave, find out about the regulations in the countries you’ll be traveling through to avoid a fine or having your vehicle impounded.

In particular, it’s advisable to check that you have the following items:

• a high-visibility safety vest;
• a warning triangle;
• a first-aid kit;
• a fire extinguisher, if required by local regulations;
• spare light bulbs, if required;
• a breathalyzer if the destination country recommends or requires it.

Depending on your itinerary, certain cities or countries may also require an environmental sticker (Crit’Air in France, Umweltplakette in Germany, etc.) or a highway sticker. Be sure to check before you leave.

ACL stores offer, among other things, highway toll stickers for certain European countries as well as various environmental stickers when required.

Gather all your travel documents

Before leaving Luxembourg, take a few minutes to check that you have all the necessary documents.

Depending on your destination, it is recommended that you bring:

• your valid driver’s license;
• the vehicle registration certificate;
• your auto insurance certificate;
• the Green Card or international insurance certificate, if required;
• your national ID card or passport;
• the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for travel within the European Union;
• an international driver’s license when required by your destination country.

Also, keep a list of useful emergency numbers (roadside assistance, insurance, bank, phone carrier) so you can respond quickly in case of an unexpected event.

Are you renting a car for your vacation?

If you don’t want to use your own vehicle or if you’re traveling abroad, renting a car can be a practical solution.

The ACL Clubmobil service offers various types of vehicles in Luxembourg as well as solutions tailored to the needs of individuals. During school vacation periods, it’s advisable to book several weeks in advance to ensure a wider selection.

ACL members also enjoy specific benefits, including more flexible cancellation policies depending on the available offers.

Prepare your electronic toll payment devices and highway vignettes

If your route includes toll highways, be sure to arrange your payment methods before you leave.

The ACL offers Bip&Go electronic toll tags, which can be used on several European highway networks, as well as various highway vignettes for countries that require them.

This preparation will save you time during your trip and help you avoid last-minute purchases.

Traveling by Electric Car

Long trips in an electric vehicle require a bit more planning than a trip in a gas-powered car.

Before you leave, we recommend that you:

• plan your charging stops;
• check that the charging stations are compatible with your vehicle;
• have several charging maps or apps on hand;
• identify fast-charging stations along your route.

The ACL mobile app lets you locate available charging stations in Luxembourg and check their availability in real time. It’s a handy tool for planning your trips before you leave.

Develop good habits on the road

A perfectly prepared car isn’t enough to guarantee a stress-free trip. Fatigue, stress, extreme heat, and traffic jams are among the main risk factors during the peak vacation travel season.

To minimize these risks, follow a few simple tips:

• take a break about every two hours;
• Take turns driving whenever possible;
• avoid setting out after a full day of work or a short night’s sleep;
• stay hydrated regularly, especially in hot weather;
• plan for extra breaks if you’re traveling with children.

Rest areas along major European highways allow you to take a break, grab a bite to eat, and get back on the road in better condition.

Think about your roadside assistance before you leave

Even with a perfectly maintained vehicle, a breakdown or unexpected event can always occur during your vacation. Before you leave, make sure your roadside assistance plan covers the countries you’ll be traveling through.

ACL members receive roadside assistance in many European countries, regardless of the vehicle they’re driving. This assistance is available in the event of a breakdown, accident, or if your vehicle becomes immobilized.

To make requesting assistance easier, be sure to download the ACL mobile app before you leave. It allows you to quickly contact assistance services using an emergency call feature.

If you’re not yet a member, it may be helpful to compare the different plans available before your trip so you can choose the coverage that best suits your needs.

A few days before your departure, take a few minutes to check each of the following points:

A vacation that begins the moment you set out

Good preparation lets you travel with greater peace of mind, minimize unexpected issues, and enjoy your vacation to the fullest from the very first kilometers. A few simple checks before you leave can help you avoid many inconveniences on the road.

By planning ahead for your vehicle’s condition, administrative formalities, and your itinerary, you’ll give yourself the best chance of traveling safely.

For a more stress-free trip

• Vehicle Inspection in Luxembourg
• Vehicle formalities in Luxembourg
• Driving in Luxembourg
• Electric mobility in Luxembourg
• Traveling from Luxembourg
• Discover the services offered by ACL Luxembourg

FAQ: Preparing for a Road Trip