You chose the destination, got on the road, and then, in the middle of the desert path, you lost signal, and navigation stopped working — you’re now lost and have no idea what to do… Let's avoid these scenarios altogether! Here’s a car road trip checklist for a stress-free adventure. 

Firstly, you should check your tires. Verify tread depth, look for cuts or bulges, and measure pressure in the spare tire. You should also use summer or all-season tires.

Misaligned wheels accelerate wear, especially over long distances and rougher surfaces. So, check the wheel alignment and balance. Another important inspection includes fluid levels: engine oil, coolant, brake, transmission, and windshield washer fluid. Top them up or replace as needed.

Air and cabin filters must be in good condition in sandy environments, as the desert will expose them to dust and particulate matter. Also, high heat strains the battery. If it’s old or borderline, replace or test the load capacity.

In addition, inspect all external lights, brake lights, and indicators. Replace worn wiper blades — crucial during sand or dust storms. What’s more, check brake pads, lines, and general suspension integrity before long distances.

If you’re not confident you’ll safely perform all of these checks, you can leave the job to a professional. And in case you’re looking for somebody you can trust, QIC App has a list of reliable maintenance companies and lets you easily schedule an appointment via the app in just a few taps.

Make sure you have enough space for water, snacks, and personal items, but avoid overloading so everything stays accessible. Double-check that chargers for phones, GPS, and other devices are working and that you have spare cables or a power bank, as heat can drain batteries faster than usual. 

Navigation should also be tested in advance — update maps in your GPS or preferred app, and download offline ones in case of poor signal in remote desert zones.

Also, think about entertainment. Prepare playlists or podcasts ahead of time, since radio reception can fade outside urban areas. If you’re traveling with kids, download their favorite games and shows to fight boredom.

Comfort checks should also include A/C maintance: make sure its functioning at full capacity and that vents are clear, since Qatar’s heat can make even short rides unpleasant. Finally, consider seat comfort for long drives, bringing cushions or neck pillows if needed.

Emergency kit essentials include a flashlight with extra batteries, jumper cables, a basic tool kit, a fully charged power bank, and a well-stocked first aid kit.

A spare tire with the necessary changing equipment is crucial, as is a fire extinguisher that can handle vehicle-related incidents. Since desert conditions can be extreme, it’s also wise to include a tow rope or recovery straps, a portable tire inflator, and a pressure gauge to handle sand driving.

Moreover, stock up on drinking water, durable snacks that can withstand the heat, tissues or wet wipes, and hand sanitizer. Carry some cash in small denominations since not all shops or fuel stations accept cards. Just in case, keep printed and digital copies of your driving license, car registration, and insurance. Spare charging cables for your phone and GPS are useful, as well as a sunshade or hat for extra protection during stops.

Intense heat can quickly strain engines, so it’s wise to keep an eye on coolant levels, radiator function, and the thermostat. Dust and sand are constant companions on the road, easily clogging air filters, scratching paint, and collecting under the chassis, thus making regular cleaning essential, especially after off-road trips. 

When navigating dunes or soft terrain, lowering tire pressure slightly improves traction, but speed should be kept low to avoid getting stuck. If a sandstorm hits, it’s safest to remain inside the vehicle, switch on hazard lights, and wait until visibility improves. Parking in shaded areas or using sunshades can protect the car’s interior from severe sun damage, and trips are best planned outside peak heat hours — late morning and early afternoon.

Also, prepare for road conditions. On Qatar’s highways, the speed limit is 120 km/h on outer roads and 100 km/h near populated areas. Sudden braking or sharp maneuvers can be dangerous, especially on sandy or uneven roads where traction is limited. Roundabouts, lane merges, and quick exits are common, so staying alert to the habits of other drivers is just as important as reading the signage. In desert areas, drivers should also be cautious of wandering animals, patches of soft ground, sabkha salt flats, or sudden drops in terrain.

Traveling with children requires meticulous preparation and considering each and every detail. Fail to do it, and your little ones will remind you about it clearly and loudly!

Pack a “kids in-car kit”: snacks, water bottles, wet wipes, extra clothes, comfort items (blankets, favorite toy), headphones, and chargers. It would be wise to plan frequent stops (every one to two hours) for bathroom, stretching, and mental resets. And don’t forget to include a “boredom buffer” — games, tablets pre-loaded with content, coloring pads — especially helpful during stretches with few scenic changes.

Don't forget about child seats or boosters. In addition, bear in mind that the law prohibits children under ten from sitting in the front passenger seat of a vehicle while it's in motion. 

If you’re going on a trip with a rented car, further preparations are in order. First of all, check the terms and conditions of the agreement to avoid unpleasant surprises. In case you want to travel outside Qatar, ask whether cross-border travel is permitted under the rental agreement and what extra fees or insurance are required. 

You should also confirm whether the rental company provides roadside assistance or emergency support — especially in remote desert sections. Moreover, verify whether insurance covers damage from sand, dust storms, and desert driving, which is not always included in standard policies.

A smart way to prepare the car for a trip is to take a short practice drive about a week before, no farther than 30 km, to test comfort, fuel efficiency, and how the car handles heat and air conditioning. 

Use this mini-trip to fine-tune seat adjustments, check visibility, try out your navigation system, and ensure your phone connects smoothly with the car’s audio. It’s also a good chance to listen for unusual sounds, verify if cooling works well under load, and confirm that everyone traveling feels comfortable for longer stretches.