Planning a long journey across North America? Whether you’re heading out for a month or a year, proper preparation can make the difference between a smooth adventure and constant problem-solving. Here’s your comprehensive guide to getting ready for the journey of a lifetime.
3 Months Before Departure
Essential Documents
- Check passport expiration (need 6+ months validity)
- Review driver’s license status
- Update vehicle insurance (if bringing own)
- Arrange travel insurance coverage
- Get International Driving Permit (optional)
Medical Preparation
- Schedule check-ups and dental visits
- Refill prescriptions (3-month supply)
- Get necessary vaccinations
- Prepare basic first aid kit
- Get prescription copies
Financial Planning
- Set up online banking access
- Notify credit card companies
- Create travel budget spreadsheet
- Set up auto-payments for bills
- Build emergency fund
2 Months Before
Route Planning
- Map primary destinations
- Research seasonal weather patterns
- Book key accommodation for peak seasons
- Download offline maps
- Join travel membership programs
Vehicle Preparation
- Complete major maintenance
- Check tire condition
- Test all systems
- Install any needed additions
- Get roadside assistance coverage
Communication Setup
- Research phone plans
- Get mobile hotspot if needed
- Set up virtual mailbox service
- Download essential apps
- Arrange bill forwarding
1 Month Before
Equipment Check
- Test all camping gear
- Check camera equipment
- Verify electronics compatibility
- Pack basic tool kit
- Test portable chargers
Accommodation Planning
- Book first week’s stays
- Research free camping spots
- Save offline camping maps
- Join camping clubs if needed
- Note backup options
Local Research
- Save offline area guides
- Note local emergency numbers
- Research grocery store chains
- Find laundromat locations
- Note medical facilities
2 Weeks Before
Final Vehicle Checks
- Oil change if needed
- Tire pressure check
- Fluid levels check
- Battery test
- Brake inspection
Home Preparation
- Arrange mail handling
- Set up home security
- Organize storage if needed
- Cancel unnecessary services
- Inform key contacts
Packing Organization
- Sort by category
- Create inventory list
- Pack essential documents
- Organize emergency kit
- Label everything clearly
Essential Packing Lists
Vehicle Safety Kit
- Jump starter
- Basic tools
- Spare tire (good condition)
- Emergency flares
- First aid kit
Tech Essentials
- Phone chargers
- Portable battery packs
- Hotspot device
- Offline GPS device
- Necessary adapters
Comfort Items
- Good sleeping bag
- Comfortable pillow
- Camp chairs
- Portable fan/heater
- Privacy screens
Kitchen Essentials
- Basic cooking gear
- Water containers
- Food storage solutions
- Portable stove
- Cooler/fridge
Important Apps to Download
Navigation
- Maps.me (offline maps)
- Campendium
- GasBuddy
- Weather apps
- Park-specific apps
Utilities
- Banking apps
- Translation apps
- Emergency services
- Campground finders
- Road condition alerts
Entertainment
- Offline music
- Podcasts
- E-books
- Games
- Educational content
Money-Saving Prep
Memberships Worth Getting
- National Park annual pass
- Camping club memberships
- Fuel reward programs
- Hotel reward programs
- AAA membership
Smart Shopping
- Buy gear in off-season
- Look for package deals
- Use member discounts
- Stock up on essentials
- Get bulk supplies
Safety Preparations
Emergency Kit
- Basic first aid supplies
- Emergency food/water
- Warm blankets
- Basic medications
- Emergency contacts list
Vehicle Safety
- Emergency repair kit
- Spare keys
- Vehicle manual
- Insurance documents
- Registration papers
Personal Safety
- Share itinerary with family
- Set up location sharing
- Emergency contact cards
- Area-specific gear
- Weather radio
Pro Tips for Success
Before Leaving
- Test everything
- Do a short trial run
- Make copies of documents
- Take inventory photos
- Create backup plans
Organization Tips
- Use packing cubes
- Label everything
- Create easy-access kits
- Make checklists
- Keep documents together
Smart Planning
- Be flexible with dates
- Have backup plans
- Keep emergency funds
- Know cancellation policies
- Plan rest days
Remember: The key to a successful long-term journey isn’t just what you bring – it’s how well you prepare. Take time to work through each section of this checklist, adapting it to your specific needs and travel style.
Ready to start preparing? Use this guide as your foundation, but remember to customize it based on your specific journey plans. The better prepared you are, the more you can focus on enjoying the adventure ahead.