5 questions you need to ask yourself before going on a road trip

Whether you are going for a short one-hour trip to Tagaytay or heading 6 to 8 hours up north to Baguio, the last thing you need is a flat tire, faulty electrical wiring, or a dead battery. Don’t let a supposedly memorable and adventurous trip turn into your worst nightmare by simply honestly answering these questions.

If your answer is no, it’s time to learn this essential skill. Not only will it prevent you from paying towing fees, but you can also avoid the hassle of calling for help. Do make sure that you bring a spare tire that's fully inflated. You can refer to your car’s manual so you will know where to position the jack stand.  For a systematic guide, you should read our article on how to replace a flat tire like a pro.

However, some modern cars don’t come with a spare tire, not even the skinny space saver donuts smaller cars have. Instead of a spare tire, some manufacturers provide a tire plug kit for your car. If your car is among those that don’t carry spare tires anymore, it’s best to read up on how to plug a tire on the side of the road. Also, plugging a car tire is only half the battle; reinflating it comes next, so make sure you also carry an air compressor or pump in your car at all times.

If it’s been months or heck, even years, it's now time head to your preferred dealership branch and schedule a PMS. Whether your vehicle’s need engine oil or more brake fluid, they will be able to give you in-depth information on what repairs and maintenance need to be done to keep your car roadworthy. 

Having a list of emergency hotlines in your phone can give you peace of mind that a police or a traffic enforcer can immediately attend to your travel woes. See the list below for your reference.

METRO MANILA DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (MMDA)

Hotline: 136

Trunkline: (02) 882-4150-77 loc. 337 (rescue), 319 (Road Safety), 320 (Road Emergency)

South Luzon Expressway (SLEx) Customer Assistance:

Landline: (02) 888-8787

Globe-text only: (0915) 625-6231

Smart-text only: (0939) 500-6910

Sun-text only: (0923) 597-6105

Manila Traffic Hotline

Front desk: (02)527-3087

Traffic Investigation: (02)527-3088

Trunkline: (02)527-3065

North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) hotlines

(02) 3-500

(02) 580-8900

Double-check if the tool set issued by the dealer has everything that you need to change a flat tire, cut wires, or do other necessary repairs that you may come across during the trip. If not, it's time to go to the nearest trusted car accessory shop and do some shopping. Also, if you have a modified car that’s lifted, has longer suspension, or thicker tires and bigger wheels, the standard jack and tool kit provided may no longer be appropriate for your car.

In case you run into a problem, you can easily present all the necessary documents to the authorities. These include the original and photocopy printouts of your car's official receipt, car registration, insurance form, and driver's license.

Before revving your car’s engine and hitting the open road to your next destination, make sure that you and your vehicle are prepared.