Road Trips - Tools and Necessities

Bring the Neccesities

A camera for the memories. I consider this a neccesity ;)

Cell phone with car charger, sunglasses, First Aid Kit, Sunscreen, emergency cash, Lots of water, GPS device/maps.

High energy snacks to help you stay energized. I would avoid greasy foods that make you tired.

Also, some extra fluids for the car, extra coolant and engine oil.

Checklist

Be familiar with your cars operations, location of fuses, under the hood, etc.
Wait until the car is cool, don't burn yourself.

Check ALL tires for nails/wear/air pressure including the spare.

Find your cars 'wheel lock key'. Can't remove the wheel without this special key for your VW (not every car has these, but usually there is one lugbolt per wheel like this).

Monitor your fluid levels including: Coolant, Engine Oil, Power Steering and windsh m ield washer fluid.

Check your brakelight bulbs, headlight bulbs, turn signals and fuel gauge.

Poke around for cracking coolant hoses.

Tools

A few basic tools may help you along the way, but for serious repairs a good cell phone with a call to the nearest shop may be unavoidable. However, be prepared as much as possible.

Jumper Cables or preferably a portable battery jump starter. These usually come with a small air compressor which is a huge bonus. Also, a tire repair kit for punctures wouldn't hurt along with a tire pressure gauge. Tire Iron with correct socket and a small jack for tire changes.

Plan for the nighttime with a reflective triangle, flashlight and lighter.

Zip ties, duct tape, adjustable clamps and a knife may help for that odd problem. A few screw drivers, common wrenches (10mm and 13mm for VW/Audi) , pliers and extra fuses don't take up much space.