The Ultimate Thanksgiving Road Trip Checklist for Families

Thanksgiving is around the corner, and for many families in Clarksville, TN, that means hitting the road to celebrate with family and friends. But it's easy to overlook essential road trip preparations between packing, prepping, and loading up the kids. At A&R Complete Auto Care, we know the holiday hustle, so we've crafted a family-friendly Thanksgiving road trip checklist to ensure you reach your destination safely—and with your sanity intact!

Here’s everything you need for a smooth, stress-free journey to Thanksgiving dinner.

1. The Family Comfort Kit: Snacks, Blankets, and Entertainment

It’s the morning of Thanksgiving, and you've loaded up the family SUV. Just ten minutes into your journey, the kids ask, “Are we there yet?” This could be a long trip without the right distractions.

What to Pack:

• Snacks Galore: Avoid the constant pit stops by packing a variety of snacks, from trail mix and fruit to granola bars. Keep sugary treats in check to avoid mid-ride sugar rushes!
• Blankets and Pillows: Perfect for keeping kids cozy and encouraging naps. If you’re driving through Tennessee’s cool autumn mornings, a soft blanket goes a long way.
• Entertainment Kit: Tablets with downloaded movies, headphones, coloring books, and travel games like “I Spy” or “License Plate Bingo” can keep boredom at bay.

A little prep goes a long way in keeping everyone comfortable and entertained, making your Thanksgiving road trip far more enjoyable.

2. Pre-Trip Car Inspection: Avoid a Thanksgiving Breakdown

Your halfway to Grandma’s house, and you notice the temperature gauge creeping up, followed by a “Check Engine” light. Thanksgiving dinner won’t wait, so now what?

What to Check Before You Leave:

• Fluid Levels: Top off oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
• Battery Health: Cold weather can be hard on car batteries, so check for any signs of corrosion or weakness.
• Brakes and Tires: Ensure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread for safe handling. Double-check that your brakes are in top shape for icy or wet roads.
• Lights and Wipers: Working headlights, brake lights, and clean wiper blades are essential for safe holiday travel.

For peace of mind, consider stopping by A&R Complete Auto Care for a pre-trip inspection. We'll help ensure your vehicle is road-ready, so you don’t have to worry about breakdowns on the way to Thanksgiving dinner.

3. Navigation Tools and Charging Gear: Get There on Time

After hours on the road, you’ve finally made it within an hour of your destination—only to have your phone die, and you realize no one packed a car charger. Panic sets in.

What to Pack:

• Phone Chargers and Backup Batteries: Ensure every phone has its charger, and bring a backup battery pack just in case. A car charger is a must!
• Emergency Contacts List: Have a key contacts list like roadside assistance or A&R Complete Auto Care's number. It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it!

Being prepared means you won’t have to worry about losing your way or missing a call from family waiting on you.

4. Emergency Kit Essentials: Just in Case

It’s late, and a flat tire brings your Thanksgiving travel to a halt on a deserted country road. Everyone’s hungry, it’s chilly, and you’re not sure where the nearest gas station is.

What to Pack:

• Roadside Emergency Kit: Include items like jumper cables, a flashlight, reflective triangles, a spare tire with tools, and a basic first aid kit.
• Blanket and Hand Warmers: These can be lifesavers if you have to wait for roadside assistance on a cold Tennessee night.
• Bottled Water and Non-Perishable Snacks: If you’re stuck for a while, snacks and water will help keep everyone’s spirits up.

An emergency kit is essential for any road trip, especially when you have little ones in the car. Keep it easily accessible so you’re ready for whatever comes your way.

5. The Thanksgiving Essentials: Don’t Forget the Food!

You’ve spent hours on the road only to realize you left the pumpkin pie in the fridge. A Thanksgiving nightmare, for sure!

What to Pack:

• Food Containers: Use insulated containers to keep dishes warm on the road. Thanksgiving staples like stuffing and casseroles travel well if packed properly.
• Portable Cooler: For chilled items, a cooler can keep drinks and sides fresh until you arrive.
• Reusable Utensils and Napkins: If you’re contributing to the meal, bring extras for serving and eating on the road if needed.
• Secure Storage: If you’re bringing multiple dishes, use seat belts or boxes to secure them and prevent spills.

Being prepared with the right food storage ensures you show up ready to contribute to the meal without losing precious cargo along the way.

6. Kid Comfort and Safety Must-Haves

You’re nearing the end of a long drive when you hear a soft, but insistent “I don’t feel so good…” from the backseat.

What to Pack:

• Motion Sickness Supplies: Pack anti-nausea medication, ginger candies, and plastic bags—just in case.
• Comfort Toys and Games: Keep a favorite stuffed animal or blanket within reach. Familiar items can help younger kids feel at ease during long drives.
• Hand Sanitizer and Wet Wipes: Always handy for quick clean-ups and for sanitizing hands after rest stop visits.

With a little planning, you can prevent common travel mishaps and keep everyone safe and comfortable.

7. Arrival Ready: Freshen Up Kits

After a full day in the car, you pull up at Grandpa’s and everyone feels a little, well, “road weary.” Time for a quick refresh!

What to Pack:

• Personal Hygiene Kits: Include toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, and face wipes for a quick freshen-up before joining the festivities.
• Change of Clothes: If anything spills on the way, clean clothes can save the day.
• Hairbrush and Lip Balm: Small things like these make a big difference when you want to feel and look your best on arrival.

This mini freshen-up kit can help everyone step out of the car feeling ready to enjoy Thanksgiving with family.

Safe Travels from A&R Complete Auto Care!

Whether your Thanksgiving road trip is across town or across state lines, following this checklist will help ensure a smooth journey. If you need a pre-trip inspection or car maintenance before hitting the road, schedule an appointment with A&R Complete Auto Care in Clarksville, TN. Our team is here to help make sure your vehicle is in top shape, so you can focus on what really matters—spending time with family and friends this Thanksgiving.



Happy travels, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!