Summer on the Gulf Coast is the perfect time to hit the road with your Volkswagen sedan, hatchback, or SUV. In this guide, we cover the best VW models for road trips and share tips to help you prepare for a safe, comfortable, and hassle-free journey with friends and family.
VW Road Trip Maintenance
Whether you’re taking a short day trip out of Daphne with a few friends or embarking on a week-long road trip with your family, it’s important to ensure your Volkswagen is in good condition before you set out.
Things you can check easily include:
- Coolant level: Check that there is sufficient coolant in your reservoir and whether the fluid needs replacing. It shouldn’t be cloudy or milky, and should be a consistent color and clarity.
- Oil level: Use the dip stick to check the oil level. Low oil can cause engine issues during extended driving periods.
- Tire pressure: Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s door jamb.
- Wiper fluid level: Don’t forget to check your windshield wiper fluid and top it up if necessary. Running out mid-road trip can leave you with reduced vision, especially in summer months when Alabama bugs are at their meanest!
Consider taking your Volkswagen for a multi-point inspection at a certified VW service center. Letting Volkswagen of Daphne’s expert technicians thoroughly inspect your car as part of your VW road trip preparation will give you peace of mind. Our team of certified technicians will check the brakes, suspension, timing belt, fluids, and more to ensure your car is up for the challenge.
You can even schedule your pre-road trip inspection online.
What to Pack and Prep for Your VW Road Trip
Packing for a road trip is one of the surest ways to ensure a fun and exciting journey. Your VW road trip packing list should include:
- A cooler, or even a 12V cooler powered by your VW’s DC outlet
- A first-aid kit
- A pair of jumper cables in case you need to jump-start your Volkswagen
- A vehicle emergency kit with roadside flares
- Blankets and warm clothes for cool evenings
- Plenty of tunes
- Your best friends
Be sure to consult your owner’s manual to familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s dashboard warning lights before hitting the road. Also, double-check that your spare tire is inflated (and that you know how to access it), and ensure your VW key fob is charged.
Prep For Your Road Trip Today
Our friendly and knowledgeable team at Volkswagen of Daphne can help you organize your VW road trip prep with a service appointment.
Contact us today or drop by our convenient location at 29816 Frederick Blvd, Daphne. We’ll inspect your Volkswagen and ensure it’s safe and ready for travel on the open road.

