Study this excerpt from "How to Prepare for a Road Trip":
You wouldn't try running a race without checking your
shoelaces and eating a good meal; the same goes for your
car on a long trip.
• Take your car in for a tune-up. Be sure the oil has been
changed and the tires are at the correct pressure.
• Make sure your spare tire is in good condition, you have
a jack, and you know how to change a tire.
• Pack an emergency car kit that contains:
o Jumper cables
o A flashlight
o A socket wrench for changing a tire
o Extra oil if your car is old
o A gallon of water
o Flares