How to Prep Your Car for Holiday Road Trips
Holiday travel can be tough on your car. Between snow, salt, food wrappers, and luggage, your ride can take a beating inside and out. Here’s how to detail and protect your car before hitting the road.
Holiday Road Trip Prep Kit
Everything you need to clean, protect, and stay fresh on the road.
Exterior Prep Before a Road Trip
Your car’s exterior takes the brunt of winter road trips. Protect it ahead of time with these steps:
- Wash with The Super Soaper to remove dirt and old protection.
- Apply Tough As Shell Ceramic Spray for hydrophobic defense against salt and grime.
- Dress tires and trim with All Dressed Up to protect against drying and fading.
Interior Cleaning for Long Drives
A clean interior makes holiday travel more comfortable and keeps winter messes under control.
- Vacuum carpets and seats thoroughly.
- Clean surfaces with Complete Cabin Cleaner for streak-free, matte finish.
- Use Scrub Buddy Pads for stubborn stains on textured plastics.
- Keep a small detailing towel in the glovebox for quick cleanups.
Pro Tip: Apply Air Freshies before a trip—nothing beats a fresh-smelling car for long drives.
Glass and Visibility Prep
Clear visibility is critical for safe road trips, especially in winter weather:
- Clean windows inside and out to prevent glare.
- Check wiper blades and replace if streaking.
- Apply a hydrophobic layer on the windshield for better rain and snow repellency.
Extra Road-Trip Protection Tips
- Pack a small kit with microfiber towels and Complete Cabin Cleaner for emergencies.
- Protect luggage areas with towels or liners to avoid stains.
- Keep snacks and drinks in spill-proof containers to prevent messes.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping interior prep—mess multiplies quickly on long drives.
- Leaving glass dirty—glare can ruin visibility at night.
- Neglecting tire and trim protection—salt damage adds up fast.
FAQ: Prepping Cars for Holiday Travel
How far in advance should I prep my car?
Ideally 1–2 days before your trip so protection is fresh and interiors are clean.
What’s the most important product for holiday road trips?
Complete Cabin Cleaner—keeping the inside clean makes the biggest difference for comfort and resale value.
Should I apply ceramic spray before every trip?
Not necessarily, but if you haven’t applied it in the last month, it’s a good idea for maximum salt defense.
Do I need to protect luggage areas?
Yes—luggage and gifts can leave scuffs and stains. Protect these areas with towels or liners.
